Italian Sighthound
Also known as Piccolo Levriero Italiano · Levrette d'Italie · Italienisches Windspiel · Pequeño Lebrel Italiano
Italy, Short-haired Sighthounds
- Size
- Small
- Height
- 32–38 cm
- Weight
- 3.5–5 kg
- Life expectancy
- 13–15 yrs
- Affectionate
- Sensitive
- Playful
- Graceful
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Italian Sighthound
The Italian Sighthound, often called the Italian Greyhound, is a small sighthound from Italy, long kept as a companion. It resembles a miniature greyhound, with a slender, elegant body, fine legs, a narrow head and a thin, short coat. It is fast and graceful, and best suited to gentle handling. It is often described as a small version of the greyhound.
Temperament
Affectionate, sensitive and playful, often very attached to its people. It can be shy with strangers and dislikes cold or harsh treatment. House training can take patience.
Exercise
Needs daily walks and short bursts of speed in a secure area. It also likes plenty of indoor play.
Grooming
Fine, short coat that needs only occasional brushing. A coat in cold or wet weather is advisable.
Care & wellbeing
Fine bones can be fragile, so supervise jumping from furniture. Feel the cold, so provide warmth. Regular dental care is important for small breeds.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 4.3 kg adult- Water
- 172 ml–258 ml
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 330 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 60–90 min
- a day
- Grooming
- An occasional brush is plenty
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Italian Sighthound
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
The Italian Greyhound is a miniature sighthound that has been a companion of nobility for centuries. It was kept as a small, elegant lap dog, and is a gentle, sensitive breed that enjoys warmth and company.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Dental problems
- Sensitivity to anaesthesia
- Fragile legs
- Cold sensitivity
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Dental checks
- Eye tests
Not every Italian Sighthound is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
Lower than average- Smaller food bills and medicine doses
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 13–15 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Italian Sighthound right for you?
Could suit
- Owners who can manage a good walk or two each day
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
- Smaller homes, as long as daily exercise needs are met
- Owners ready for a long commitment — often well into their teens
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Italian Sighthound get?
Adult Italian Sighthounds typically stand about 32–38 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 3.5–5 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Italian Sighthounds live?
Typically 13–15 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Italian Sighthound need?
As a guide, around 60–90 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Italian Sighthound need?
An occasional brush is plenty. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Italian Sighthounds easy to train?
Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.
Do Italian Sighthounds shed?
A little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Italian Sighthounds good with children?
Many get on well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Italian Sighthound live in a flat?
Usually, yes — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Italian Sighthounds have?
The breed can be prone to dental problems, sensitivity to anaesthesia, fragile legs. Not every Italian Sighthound is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Italy
- Type
- Short-haired Sighthounds
- Internationally recognised
- 1956