Italian Greyhound - General Information

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Weight: male: 65-70, female: 60-65 lbs

Height: 27-30 inches

Color(s): immaterial (includes black, gray, red, fawn, either solid or brindled, either whole colored or spotted)

Character: The Greyhound is very gentle and sensitive, and makes a wonderful companion to most children. This is also a very talented breed and does well in a number of sports including hunting, sighting, watchdogging, racing, and agility. The Greyhound is an extremely graceful dog that is petite, making him an exceptional running companion. This breed does very well in a home environment, but can also do well in kennel life, although he does crave human attention and desperately wants to be part of the family.

Temperament: The Greyhound is an affectionate breed that loves to be around his family, including children. They make a wonderful family pet, however they do have a prey instinct and should not be in a home with smaller animals such as birds, cats, rabbits, or something of the sort. The Greyhound does extremely well with other dogs, however they get along best with their own kind and do very well with another Greyhound in the home. This breed does get along well with children but because he is so sensitive, this breed would do best in a home with older and more respectable children.

Care: The Greyhound's coat is very short and sleek, which doesn't require much grooming. Brushing is minimal, however brushing with a firm bristle brush or a rub down with a rough towel or a rubber glove will remove any dead or loose hair that may be present. This average shedding breed should not be bathed too often, as it will remove the natural oils from the coat and skin, taking away the weather resistancy the coat of this breed retains.

Training: The Greyhound is a very intelligent breed, however he is very sensitive so does need an experienced handler. Obedience classes as a puppy are recommended, but not required. This breed should always have a gentle handler, but training should also be consistent if this dog is to excel. The Greyhound should have a variety of training techniques and somewhat of a challenge to keep him fit and happy.

Activity: The Greyhound loves to run and needs quite a bit of exercise on a daily basis. A fenced in yard is a must, and it should be at least of average size. Long walks are also necessary to keep this dog healthy and active. The Greyhound has the tendency to chase things because of his strong prey instinct, so he should always be kept on lead or in a safe and fenced in area or he will be sure to run off when he gets the chance. This breed should always have at least 2 hours of daily exercise per day, as he is very agile and fast.