Italian Greyhound
Toy Small
Ranked #62 by the AKC, the Italian Greyhound is a small toy dog with roots in Italy. While their larger cousins were coursing hounds, Italian Greyhounds were bred purely as companions and status symbols for Mediterranean and European aristocracy.
Quick Stats
Characteristics
| Family Friendly | |
| Energy Level | |
| Trainability | |
| Shedding | |
| Good with Kids | |
| Good with Dogs | |
| Apartment Friendly | |
| Grooming Needs | |
| Barking Level | |
| Exercise Needs | |
| Intelligence |
About the Italian Greyhound
Miniaturized greyhounds have existed for over 2,000 years, with archaeological evidence from Egypt, Greece, and Turkey. They became especially popular in Renaissance Italy, giving them their name.. As of 2026, they hold the #62 position in the American Kennel Club's popularity rankings.
Standing 13 to 15 inches tall and weighing 7 to 14 pounds, the Italian Greyhound is a small-sized dog. They are the smallest of the sighthound family, capable of reaching speeds up to 25 mph. Their elegant, high-stepping gait and graceful curves embody canine elegance in miniature. They are well-suited to owners who can provide the exercise, training, and companionship this breed thrives on.
Beloved companion dogs popular among artists, writers, and urban professionals who appreciate their elegance and low-shedding coats. They also compete successfully in lure coursing..
Lifespan Overview
The Italian Greyhound typically lives 14–15 years. Learn more about Italian Greyhound lifespan →
Price Overview
Expect to pay $1000–$2500 from a reputable breeder. See full price breakdown →
Weight & Growth
Adult Italian Greyhounds weigh 7–14 lbs. View growth chart →
Temperament
Energy level: 3/5. Trainability: 3/5. Italian Greyhounds are sensitive, elegant athletes who love to sprint like greyhounds and then curl up under blankets like cats. They combine speed with supreme snuggling ability. Full temperament guide →
History
The story of the Italian Greyhound begins in Italy. Miniaturized greyhounds have existed for over 2,000 years, with archaeological evidence from Egypt, Greece, and Turkey. They became especially popular in Renaissance Italy, giving them their name..
While their larger cousins were coursing hounds, Italian Greyhounds were bred purely as companions and status symbols for Mediterranean and European aristocracy.. Frederick the Great of Prussia, Queen Victoria, and Catherine the Great were all devoted Italian Greyhound owners. An Italian Greyhound reportedly accompanied a Pompeiian family to their end.. Currently ranked #62 by the AKC, the Italian Greyhound continues to earn new admirers.
Common Health Issues
| Condition | Frequency | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| Leg Fractures | Common | Severe |
| Periodontal Disease | Very Common | Moderate |
| Progressive Retinal Atrophy | Occasional | Severe |
| Hypothyroidism | Occasional | Moderate |
| Epilepsy | Occasional | Moderate |
| Color Dilution Alopecia | Occasional | Mild |
Similar Breeds
Compare Italian Greyhound
Is the Italian Greyhound Right for You?
Choosing the right dog breed is one of the most important decisions a future owner can make. The Italian Greyhound is a small-sized breed belonging to the Toy group, which shapes much of its daily behavior and needs. Here is an honest assessment based on key traits to help you decide if this breed fits your lifestyle.
Energy and exercise: The Italian Greyhound has moderate energy levels, needing around 30–45 minutes of daily exercise. A combination of walks and play sessions will keep this breed content. They adapt reasonably well to different activity levels without becoming hyperactive or overly lethargic.
Living space: With an apartment friendliness rating of 4/5, the Italian Greyhound adapts well to smaller living spaces. They can thrive in apartments or condos as long as their basic exercise needs are met and they receive enough mental stimulation throughout the day.
Children and family: The Italian Greyhound scores 2/5 with children, meaning caution is needed in households with young kids. This breed may be better suited to adult-only homes or families with teenagers. If children are present, consistent training and close supervision during all interactions are non-negotiable.
Grooming commitment: The Italian Greyhound is relatively low-maintenance in grooming with a rating of 1/5. Weekly brushing and occasional baths are typically sufficient. This makes the breed a good choice for owners who prefer minimal grooming routines, with costs around $65–73/month.
Ownership Cost Summary
Before bringing a Italian Greyhound home, it is critical to understand the full financial commitment over their 14–15 year lifespan. The initial purchase price of $1000–$2500 is only the beginning.
The first year is the most expensive, totaling approximately $3,840. This includes the purchase price, initial veterinary visits, vaccinations, spay/neuter surgery, supplies (crate, bed, bowls, leash), and early training classes. Many owners underestimate this initial outlay and find themselves financially stressed within the first few months.
Ongoing monthly costs average $117, broken down as follows: food ($37–59/mo), grooming ($65–73/mo), insurance ($40–85/mo), with annual costs for veterinary care ($382–750/yr) and supplies ($288–407/yr). As a small breed, the Italian Greyhound is relatively economical on food and supplies, though veterinary and dental costs remain consistent regardless of size.
Over a full 14–15 year lifespan, total ownership costs typically reach $15,000–$30,000+ depending on health, not including emergency veterinary care which can add $2,000–$10,000 over the dog's lifetime. Pet insurance at $40–85/month is strongly recommended to manage unexpected health expenses.
Hidden costs often overlooked: Many prospective Italian Greyhound owners fail to budget for training classes ($150–$500 for basic obedience), boarding or pet sitting during vacations ($30–$75/night), dog-proofing the home ($100–$300), replacement of chewed items during puppyhood, and potential property damage. Additionally, renters may face pet deposits ($200–$500) and monthly pet rent ($25–$75). Factor these real-world costs into your decision to ensure the Italian Greyhound fits your financial situation comfortably without requiring sacrifices in the quality of care you can provide.
Breed Traits Explained
The Italian Greyhound belongs to the Toy group, which historically means these dogs were developed primarily for companionship. Toy breeds are affectionate, sociable, and well-suited to indoor living. Despite their small size, many have bold personalities and require proper socialization and training to prevent small-dog syndrome.
With a family friendliness score of 3/5, intelligence at 4/5, and shedding rated 1/5, the Italian Greyhound presents a specific profile that works best for owners who understand and appreciate these characteristics. Their exercise needs (3/5) and barking tendency (2/5) should factor heavily into your decision, especially if you live in close proximity to neighbors or have limited outdoor space.
Intelligence and engagement: With intelligence rated 4/5, the Italian Greyhound is a quick learner that thrives on mental challenges. This high intelligence means they need puzzle toys, training sessions, and varied activities to prevent boredom. An under-stimulated Italian Greyhound may develop unwanted behaviors like excessive barking, chewing, or escape attempts. The upside is that they pick up new commands quickly and excel in activities like obedience, agility, or nosework.
Shedding and home cleanliness: The Italian Greyhound's low shedding (1/5) makes them easier to maintain in a clean home. Regular brushing still helps remove dead coat and promote skin health.
Italian Greyhound Quick Decision Guide
Making an informed decision about the Italian Greyhound requires weighing all factors together. Here is a consolidated assessment to help you decide confidently whether this breed matches your situation.
You will love the Italian Greyhound if: You maintain moderate daily routines with regular walks and occasional adventures, can provide consistent training and appropriate supervision with visitors, live in any housing situation including apartments, and prefer lower-maintenance coat care. The Italian Greyhound's toy heritage brings specific qualities that dedicated owners find deeply rewarding.
Consider a different breed if: You need a dog for extreme athletic activities, , or if your living situation cannot accommodate a small breed comfortably. Being honest about these factors prevents rehoming situations that are stressful for both dog and owner.
Next steps: If the Italian Greyhound seems like a good match, explore our detailed sub-pages on lifespan, cost, temperament, and health for deeper information. Connect with Italian Greyhound owners through breed clubs and online communities to hear firsthand experiences. If possible, spend time with Italian Greyhounds before committing - attending dog shows, visiting breed-specific meetups, or fostering through a rescue organization. Use our Puppy Weight Calculator and Dog Age Calculator for practical planning, and review our expert guides for training, nutrition, and health care advice tailored to all breeds and life stages.