Speaking of greyhounds, we always recall a proud thin-legged creature that is able to run without stopping at least for a whole day, driving its prey. This is a real horse, tall, stately, spectacular. But among these dogs there is also a room miracle, which is difficult to imagine on a hunt. This is a greyhound Italian, or small. Indoor and decorative breed, which is ideal for the urban lover of hunting dogs.
We must give her credit. Italian Greyhound, or Italian greyhound, looks like an elegant figurine. Graceful, elegant, light, she rather resembles a cat in her habits. Therefore, if you need a bodyguard, then it is better to look for him among other representatives of the canine world. This creature will be happy to sleep on a sunny rug and easily accustomed to the tray, so that in bad weather you donโt go out at all.
general description
Among the decorative breeds of dogs, we most often hear about toy terriers and poodles, Spitz, but the Italian greyhound remains somehow behind the scenes. But in fact, she was completely forgotten in vain and undeservedly. Unlike many other breeds, this one is perfect for inexperienced owners, as it does not require special training skills. The height at the withers does not exceed 38 centimeters, and the average weight is 3 kg. The Italian Greyhound will forever give its heart to a single owner. But she will love and respect all members of the family.
Initially, this dog had a very specific task - to be a faithful companion and companion. And today she perfectly fulfills these functions, because she loves to sit on her hands and is ready to do it for hours on end.
Breed history
Small Italian Greyhound appeared more than two thousand years ago. The area of โโmodern Greece is considered its ancestral homeland. Already lost information about the first representatives of this breed, who they were and how they were used by humans. It is only known that they were not as miniature as modern dogs.
In the XVI century, the small Italian greyhound gained popularity among rich people. She became the most popular palace dog. With her grace and sophisticated appearance, she adorned the royal chambers and was the favorite of royal persons. For example, the King of Prussia had at least 50 Italian greyhounds, each of which he knew by name. In the Middle Ages, the popularity of the breed only increased.
Modern look
The little Italian greyhound deserved such love precisely for its modest size. Largely due to their aristocratic appearance, dogs have gained popularity among court ladies who used them as expensive accessories. It is not surprising that the breeding work that began with this breed was aimed at maintaining this particular trait. That is, as a result, a miniature size and weight of up to 4 kilograms were fixed. By these signs today we recognize modern Italian greyhound.
But, despite this, the small greyhound still remains worthy of its name. It can reach speeds of up to 40 km / h. It is much faster than any other representative of a miniature breed. Italian greyhound has excellent dexterity and instinct, keen hearing and excellent eyesight.
Breed format
In fact, if you are looking for a dog for the soul, then there is not much difference in how much weight and height it has. But if you want to put it in the ring and take places, as well as participate in breeding, then your pet must exactly match the breed format. Small Italian greyhound, Italian greyhound is a square format dog. The length of the body is only slightly less than the height at the withers. But the body structure is not at all heavy.
Of particular note is the body of the dog. Typically a greyhound, dry, elegant, light-boned, swift and dynamic. The muscles are thin, but well developed. The chest is very deep and narrow, the ribs are long, and the lower back is slightly curved. This miracle, in principle, is not suitable for serious work, which can be seen at a glance. Decorative Italian greyhound has a short, shiny and thick coat. Her skin is thin, tight-fitting, without folds.
Head
Fairly long, flat, narrow and necessarily dry. She could not have any wrinkles or bruises. The skull is long, and the transition to the muzzle is very smooth. Ears - characteristic of hunting breeds, thin, hanging on the cartilage, they are located high. In a calm state, they are lowered to the side, and if the dog is alert, they become upright.
The eyes are infinitely smart, large, dark and expressive. Probably, largely due to this view, many breed lovers chose Italian greyhound for themselves. Their eyes are attentive, very clever, sparkling. Depending on the color of the dog, the eyes may be darker or lighter. The neck of these dogs is very elegant, dry, long, with a beautiful line of scruff.
Limbs
The Italian greyhound dog has a peculiar body structure, which may seem strange to a person who is unfamiliar with the characteristics of the breed. Their backs are strong, muscular and convex, the loins are short, and the croup is long, slightly sloping. The last feature is emphasized by a thin long tail, which is set low and lowered down. At the end, it is slightly bent and extended under the stomach. Because of this, it seems that Italian greyhound is always a little afraid.
The forelimbs are straight and dry, as it should be for a real hunter. Shoulders are a bit sharp, elbows are pressed to the chest. The forearms are strong, with a thin but strong skeleton and well-developed muscles. The hind limbs are straight, parallel to each other. The hips and knees are well muscled, knee and hock joints. All these features are more needed by professionals, and a simple layman will immediately notice the characteristic movements: fast and graceful, elegant and straightforward.
Dog character
What kind of Italian Greyhound is for its owners? The description of each of them would take many pages, because for a loving person - this is the cutest creature in the world. But already in appearance one can guess that this is a gentle and kind dog, with a big heart, in which only the owner lives. Temperament can vary greatly, but more often than not, your exact puppy will grow out of your puppy. Italian greyhound can be playful or sedate, obedient or wayward.
These are comfortable dogs for a city apartment, for a family with a small child or a disabled person. They do not need walks, although they like to be in the fresh air, and are easily accustomed to the tray. This is a very graceful creature, they are also called cat dogs. But along with grace and grace, Italian greyhounds are incredibly hardy. Nature awarded this crumbs excellent muscle. She is easy to train and learns to perform various tricks in a short time.
Family Features
Italian greyhound (Italian greyhound) can be a great companion for a lonely person to whom she will give all her tenderness and affection. Trembling and timid, they need your protection. Italian greyhound will fit perfectly into a family with active schoolchildren. Together they will have a lot of time in order to run and frolic. But if you have a small child, it is better to wait a bit with the acquisition of a pet. A fragile Italian greyhound can easily suffer from immoderate childish curiosity.
It should be noted that these creatures are non-conflict. They get along well with other pets. The main thing is not to touch them.
Shy and nervous by nature, they are difficult to adapt to noisy streets and loud music. If you plan to regularly take walks in the city center, then you need to train your dog for this from early childhood. When walking, it is better to keep Italian greyhound on a leash. So safer for a tiny creature. In addition, a developed hunting instinct may cause her to run for a bird, ignoring the commands. You cannot catch Italian greyhound, therefore it is better not to allow such a situation.
Dog food
If you buy a miniature dog, then this question needs special attention. Usually they have a specific metabolism, and only specialized foods with a high content of nutrients can provide the body with everything necessary. The reason is simple: a tiny stomach cannot process enough normal food to maintain strength.
However, do not be confused. Bred decorative dogs are one thing, and the Italian Greyhound is quite another. The breed of the dog is tiny, but it does not complain at all about the state of health. Experienced breeders say that Italian greyhound is best fed with natural feed. To do this, you need lean meat with cartilage and veins. It can be beef or turkey, chicken. Before eating, the meat will need to be scalded with boiling water or slightly boiled, but drain the broth, it should not be given.
In addition, cook loose porridge, it can be buckwheat or rice. Do not forget about the benefits of dairy products. Cottage cheese, kefir and ryazhenka will be a great addition to the dogโs diet. Seasonal vegetables and fruits, pitted sea fish, greens - all this should also be present on the table. Do not forget about vitamin and mineral supplements.
Prohibited
Italian Greyhound puppies are amazingly cute creatures who want to indulge in everything. However, from the first day the dog is in the house, decide for yourself whether you want to be a regular visitor to veterinary clinics and pharmacies. If not, then you need to find the strength in yourself to refuse the crumbs in the products from your table. Most of this is harmful to her, and something is simply dangerous.
Smoked foods, fatty meats and seasonings are prohibited for Italian greyhound. So, the question of whether it is possible to give the dog soup or the second, prepared for family members, is resolved unambiguously. The same list includes legumes and chocolate, any sweets and pastries, chicken bones and bread.
If you are a busy person, then perhaps the best way is to use ready-made feed. However, there are a number of rules here. First of all, you need to choose a quality product. To do this, consult a veterinarian and read the information about the composition on the packages. Meat should be in the first place, but corn and gluten are better to not have at all. There are several benefits to this feed. You donโt need to cook it, you can take it with you on the road, it does not spoil for a long time, and the necessary portion for a day is indicated on the package. Do not forget that you cannot mix natural and ready-made feeds, this leads to indigestion. Therefore, making a choice, adhere to one nutritional scheme.
Dog care
Smooth-haired Italian greyhound with short, smooth, soft and shiny hair does not require special skills from the dog breeder. The Italian Greyhound (the photo we provide in the article) is a very clean dog, which completely lacks the smell of a dog. She does not need special and complex care, grooming or haircut, the main thing is your love and attention.
Wool practically does not need special measures; it is enough to comb it once a week with a special mitten or soft brush. Italian greyhounds love to swim, this procedure can be performed at least three times a month. To avoid allergic reactions, you need to choose a mild shampoo for shorthair breeds. The eyes of these dogs are dry, without a tendency to sour and redden. Therefore, it is enough just to regularly monitor their condition. If you see swelling or other changes, you should immediately contact your veterinarian.
Claws and paws must be wiped and inspected after walking. Claws are recommended to be trimmed about once a month. These dogs are very sensitive to cold, so be sure to keep them at home. For outdoor walks, Italian Greyhound must have a set of clothes. These are blouses, demi-season and winter overalls, as well as shoes.
Common diseases
Italian greyhound can be called a very healthy breed, however, these mobile and funny crumbs can hurt. Among the ailments that are inherent in these dogs, glaucoma and juvenile cataract are most common. That is why the slightest changes in the condition of the eyes should become the reason for an immediate visit to the veterinarian. This list can be continued by including progressive retinal atrophy and corneal dystrophy. Greyhounds have epilepsy and cryptorchidism, alopecia, and alopecia.
Instead of a conclusion
If you are looking for a small, affectionate and gentle dog that will become an active companion for all family members, then the best option will be difficult to find. Funny, contact, very smart and friendly creatures, they conquer at first sight. If you grow one Italian greyhound, then most likely you will remain faithful to this breed until the end of life. The Italian Greyhound is a dog for beginners who do not have the skills of grooming and training. You wonโt need anything special. The main thing is to love your pet with all your heart, and he will answer you the same. Today we discussed all the most important points that you need to pay attention to the future and the present owner, now the choice is yours.