Page 129 - (DK) The Dog Encyclopedia

Italian Greyhound

HEIGHT WEIGHT LIFE SPAN Variety of colors
13–15in 9–11lb 14 years Black and blue with tan markings,
(32–38cm) (4–5kg) and brindle not permitted.

This miniature, satin-skinned greyhound enjoys creature A KING’S BEST FRIEND
comforts but needs more exercise than its size might suggest
Frederick the Great of Prussia (seen below, right,
This mini-greyhound originated in its noble past, the Italian Greyhound loves in a wood engraving after an 18th century
drawing) was said to have owned more than
Mediterranean countries—small to be pampered. Usually devoted to its
50 miniature greyhounds and even took one
greyhound-type dogs feature in Turkish and human family, the breed needs plenty of
to battle in his saddlebag during the Seven
Greek art dating from 2,000 years ago, and interaction with people, otherwise it may Years’ War (1756–63). When this dog died,
a similar dog was found in the lava flows at become bored and wayward. It is more Frederick had it buried at his favorite residence,
Pompeii. By the time of the Renaissance, hardy than its delicate frame would the Sanssouci Palace, in Potsdam. Frederick had
wished to be buried after death alongside his dog,
miniature greyhounds were much favored suggest, but it can still be injured by
but his successor did not allow it. Frederick died
pets in the Italian court. They were brought active children or other, larger dogs.
in 1786 but it was only in 1991 that his remains
to England in the 17th century and became The breed’s short coat and thin skin were moved and his wish granted.
highly popular there and in the other royal make it susceptible to cold and wet weather,
courts of Europe. so it will need a jacket when going outdoors
The Italian Greyhound needs daily in wintry conditions.
exercise and mental stimulation. Despite
its small size, the breed is fast and can
reach 40mph (64km/h) in a sudden burst.
It is highly energetic and intelligent, with
a strong chasing instinct. As suggested by
Large eyes

Short, satin- Red-fawn
soft coat Long, slender,
gracefully
arched neck
Rose ears placed
Fine, supple skin Very fine well back
muzzle
Long, flat,
narrow head

Very
fine-boned
legs

Long, fine tail
set very low

ADULT AND
PUPPIES

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