Toy Dogs Group - Italian Greyhound

There is little doubt that the Italian Greyhound is a descendant of the Greyhound, one of the most ancient breeds in the world. It may have been the first breed to have been developed exclusively as a companion or pet.

Coat: Short, Fine, and glossy.

Color: Solid black, blue, cream, fawn, red or white, or any of these colors broken with white; white broken with one of above colors; black or blue with tan markings, or brindle, not acceptable.

Features: Long, flat, and narrow skull; slight stop; rose-shape cars, set well back; large, expressive eyes; hare feet; low-set long tail, carried low.

Size: Height at withers: 12½-15 in. Weight: 5½-10 lb.

Care: Very sensitive, it feels the cold, can be wounded by harsh words, and its legs are all too easily broken. Enjoys exercise, but must have a warm coat in wintry conditions. Easy to groom, a rub-down with a silk handkerchief making its coat shine.

Character: Delightful and affectionate, easy to train, rarely molts, and is odorless. Indeed, it has been publicized as the ideal pet.