Italian Greyhound

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History/Origin
The origin of Italian Greyhound dates back to about over two centuries earlier in Turkey and in Greece, making breed quite an old variety. However, records show that Italian Greyhound existed in the two countries then, as evidenced by archaeological findings of the skeletons of this small Greyhound.
When the Renaissance period came around, Italian Greyhound became widely distributed in the Southern Europe region, and became a favorite among Italians who even came up with miniature Greyhounds. It is largely due to this enormous fame in Italy that the Greyhound breed became to be known as “Italian Greyhound”.

Prior to the Renaissance, Italian Greyhound was used in hunting prey, though often accompanied by another known hunter, falcons. It was only in later times that it came to be known as a companion dog.

Description
Known to be the smallest in its family, Italian Greyhound only averages about 33 centimeter in height at its whithers, with a weight of about 3 kilograms. As such, it is considered the toy in the group. Its face is pointed and long, similar to a dachshund's, sitting on a neck that is equally long.

A deep chest and a tucked abdomen can be found very apparent in an Italian Greyhound. It also has long and slender legs, enabling it to have those long distinctive gaits similar to a horse’s trot.

The appearance of the post-Renaissance Italian Greyhound came about due to breeders coming from different parts of Europe, including Italy, Austria, France, and Germany. Generally, the breed now resembles the Greyhound, though of a smaller size. The difference lies in the movement, as Italian Greyhound exhibits more elegance and grace.

Temperament
Aside from being an ideal companion dog, Italian Greyhound can also be a reliable guard dog. Its lungs are strong and large, enabling it to give out full, loud, and deep barks that can surprise unsuspecting visitors. It is also a great adapter, easily adjusts to either country or city life.

Unlike other dogs, the Italian Greyhound gets along well with a supposedly perennial enemy of dogs, the cat. Also in its list of well-liked things are warm places and warm things like blankets and even body heat. This is because it is an affectionate dog and simply loves being with people.