Greyhound vs Italian Greyhound: Key Differences Explained

Greyhounds and Italian Greyhounds have fascinating histories that span thousands of years. These two breeds developed in different parts of the world for distinct purposes.

Greyhound Historical Background

Greyhounds have an ancient history dating back over 4,000 years. They were first bred in Egypt and the Middle East as hunting dogs. Their incredible speed made them perfect for chasing down prey across open terrain. Pharaohs prized these dogs highly, which is why they often appear in ancient Egyptian art and tombs. 

The breed then spread to Europe with traders and invaders. In medieval Europe, only nobility could own Greyhounds. The dogs hunted deer and hares on vast estates. Modern Greyhounds still excel at racing, reaching speeds up to 45 mph.

Italian Greyhound Evolution

Italian Greyhounds originated as miniature versions of Greyhounds. They were bred in Southern Europe during the Middle Ages. These small dogs were lapdogs for nobility and royalty. Their small size made them perfect for keeping warm on cold castle nights.

The breed nearly went extinct in the 1800s. Dedicated breeders revived the Italian Greyhound population. Today, they remain popular pets known for their affectionate nature and elegant appearance.

Physical Characteristics

Greyhounds and Italian Greyhounds have distinct physical traits that set them apart. Their size, coat, and unique features make each breed easily recognizable.

Size Comparison

Greyhounds:

• A full-grown Greyhound typically stands 27-30 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs 60-80 pounds.

Italian Greyhounds:

• They stand only 13-15 inches tall and weigh 7-14 pounds.

Coat and Color Variations

Both breeds have short, smooth coats that are easy to groom. Greyhounds and Italian Greyhounds come in a wide variety of colors and patterns.

Common colors include:

• Black
• White
• Fawn
• Blue
• Red
• Brindle

Distinguishing Features

While both breeds share a similar body shape, there are key differences in their features. Greyhounds have longer, more pronounced muzzles and larger heads compared to Italian Greyhounds.

Italian Greyhounds have:

• More delicate facial features
• Larger, expressive eyes
• Smaller, finer-boned bodies

Greyhounds possess:

• Deep chests
• Powerful, muscular legs
• A distinctive “S-shaped” curve to their body

Discover Your Greyhound’s Unique Heritage

Understanding your dog’s genetic makeup can provide valuable insights into their specific needs. A Dog DNA test can reveal your Greyhound’s lineage, helping you tailor their care even further. Whether they are a retired racer or from a specific bloodline, knowing their heritage is key to optimal care.

Temperament and Behavior

Greyhounds and Italian Greyhounds have distinct personalities and behaviors. Their temperaments differ in several key ways, affecting how they interact with people and other animals.

Greyhound Personality Traits

Greyhounds are known for their gentle and calm nature. They tend to be:

• Affectionate with family members
• Patient with children
• Easy-going in various environments

Italian Greyhound Behavioral Tendencies

Italian Greyhounds, or “Iggies,” have a more lively and energetic personality. You’ll find them to be:

• Playful and active
• Affectionate and cuddly
• Sometimes shy or timid with strangers

Training and Socialization

Training and socializing Greyhounds and Italian Greyhounds require different approaches. Each breed has unique needs that owners should understand to ensure their dogs become well-adjusted companions.

Training Techniques for Greyhounds

• Greyhounds respond well to positive reinforcement. 
• Use treats and praise to reward good behavior. 
• Keep training sessions short, around 5-10 minutes.
• Focus on basic commands like sit, stay, and come. 
• Leash training is crucial. 

Italian Greyhound Socialization Imperatives

• Italian Greyhounds need early socialization to prevent shyness or anxiety. 
• Expose your puppy to various people, animals, and environments from a young age.
• Enroll in puppy classes to improve social skills and basic obedience. 
• Italian Greyhounds can be sensitive, so use gentle training methods. 

Health and Lifespan

Greyhounds and Italian Greyhounds have different health profiles and lifespans. You should be aware of breed-specific issues to provide the best care for your dog.

Common Health Issues in Greyhounds

Greyhounds are generally healthy, but they can face certain health challenges. The health issues these dogs may experience include:

• Bloat
• Osetosarcoma
• Dental problems
• Hip dysplasia
• Hypothyroidism

Italian Greyhound Health Considerations

Italian Greyhounds have their own set of health concerns. The health issues to watch for include:

• Progressive retinal atrophy
• Patellar luxation
• Epilepsy
• Dental issues
• Leg fractures

Life Expectancy Comparisons

Greyhounds typically live 10-13 years, whereas Italian Greyhounds have a longer average lifespan of 12-15 years.

Factors affecting lifespan for both breeds include:

• Diet
• Exercise
• Regular veterinary care
• Genetic factors

Care Requirements

Greyhounds and Italian Greyhounds have different care needs due to their size and temperament. You’ll need to consider exercise, grooming, and diet for each breed.

Exercise Needs

Greyhounds need moderate exercise — daily walks and short runs are ideal. Italian Greyhounds, on the other hand, require less exercise. Short walks and indoor play sessions are often enough.

Grooming and Maintenance

Greyhounds and Italian Greyhounds have short coats that are easy to maintain. Here are a feq quick tips: 

• Brush them weekly to remove loose hair and distribute skin oils.
• Bathe both breeds only when necessary.
• Trim their nails regularly.
• Clean their teeth several times a week to prevent dental issues. 
• Italian Greyhounds may need sweaters in cold weather due to their small size and thin coat.

Dietary Considerations

• Feed both breeds high-quality dog food appropriate for their size and activity level. 
• Monitor portion sizes to prevent weight gain.
• Italian Greyhounds may need smaller, more frequent meals to maintain blood sugar levels.
• Consider adding joint supplements to your Greyhound’s diet as they age. 
• Always provide fresh water for both breeds. 

Both Greyhounds and Italian Greyhounds benefit from diets that cater to their unique energy levels and metabolic rates. Providing fresh, human-grade dog food ensures they receive balanced nutrients essential for their health and vitality.

Ensuring your pet receives a balanced diet is crucial, and including a multivitamin can fill any nutritional gaps, helping maintain their overall health and vitality.

Suitability as Pets

Greyhounds and Italian Greyhounds can make great pets, but they have different needs and characteristics. You should consider your living space, family situation, and lifestyle when choosing between these breeds.

Adaptation to Living Spaces

Greyhounds can adapt well to apartment living despite their large size. They are often calm and quiet indoors, needing only moderate exercise. Moreover, Italian Greyhounds are smaller and more suited to compact spaces. They need less room to move around and can be comfortable in apartments or small homes.

Greyhound Compatibility with Families

Greyhounds can be gentle giants in family settings. They are usually good with children but may need supervision due to their size. These dogs often have a calm demeanor and can be couch potatoes at home. You’ll find they adapt well to family routines and enjoy quiet companionship.

Italian Greyhound as Companion Pets

Italian Greyhounds make excellent lap dogs and thrive on human attention. They also form strong bonds with their owners and often want to be close at all times. These small dogs can be more fragile than their larger cousins, so you’ll need to be careful with young children who might play too roughly.

Bottom Line

Greyhounds and Italian Greyhounds are both elegant, intelligent, and affectionate companions. Whether you prefer the majestic stature of the Greyhound or the compact charm of the Italian Greyhound, both breeds make incredible pets for the right owner. Understanding their dietary needs, physical health, and personality quirks ensures they live happy and fulfilling lives.

If you’re considering adding one of these graceful breeds to your family, PuppySpot is a trusted platform to find your perfect companion. Enjoy a $300 discount when you choose your new furry friend through them, ensuring a smooth and reputable adoption process.