Italian Greyhound

COUNTRY: Italy
WEIGHT: Two varieties—8 pounds maximum; over 8 pounds
HEIGHT: 13-15 inches
COAT: Short, smooth
COLOR: All shades of fawn, red, mouse, blue, cream and white; black/tan not allowed
OTHER NAMES: Piccoli Levrieri Italiani
REGISTRY: FCI, ARC, TKC, CKC
GROUP: Southern

Evidence of miniature Greyhounds was found in the tombs of Egypt, but this exquisite version of its larger counterpart was bred to perfection during Roman times in Italy. Like many of the toy varieties, the little Italian was not bred to serve his masters in any way but as a lap dog. In fact, the miniature Greyhound may well be the first breed bred exclusively as a pet. Some believe that the Latin motto, cave canem (beware the dog), did not warn guests of the tough mastiff kept as a guard, but instead asked them to be careful not to harm the tiny Italian Greyhound.

The Italian Greyhound was fancied by the ladies of the court, quickly winning the hearts of Mary Queen of Scots and Anne of Denmark. King Lobengula, chief of a 19th-century Mata-bele tribe, was so entranced by their prancing movement he gave a breeder 200 head of cattle for one Italian Greyhound! Frederick the Great succumbed to their charms, as did countless others. The king carried his favorite pet with him, even into battle. It is said during the Seven Years' War that Frederick found it necessary to hide from the enemy under a bridge. If the dog had barked a warning or whined in fear, Frederick and Prussia would have met an early and tragic fate. But the dog hugged his master in silence.

During the 19th century, miniaturization of the breed was carried to grotesque extremes in Europe and Britain. The pathetic results were often sterile. Fortunately, by 1900, good sense again reigned. Although the two World Wars dealt harshly with the breed in Europe, good stock abounded in Canada and the USA to export, replenish and rejuvenate the Italian Greyhound.

Their current devotees sing praises of their easy care, their cleanliness, their quiet behavior. Owners are warned, however, to take care that they are not chilled. They definitely are house dogs, not candidates for kennels or cold outdoor living. Unlike most of the sighthounds, their size lets them receive plenty of exercise by following their people around the house. Their quiet demeanor invites gentle care.