You didn’t land on the Italian greyhound by accident. This is a breed people seek out, and for good reason. Elegant and sensitive, remarkably fast for their size, and deeply bonded to one person, they’re a natural fit for individuals, apartment dwellers, and experienced small dog owners who appreciate a delicate, elegant companion who want a graceful, affectionate, and deeply bonded companion who brings elegance and warmth to any home. Let’s dig in.
What are the characteristics of a Italian greyhound?
Think you know what you’re getting into with a Italian greyhound? These scores will either confirm your suspicions or give you something to think about. Either way, good to know now.
Training
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Trainability | 3 out of 5 | Intelligent and curious. Italian Greyhounds learn quickly but are easily distracted and sensitive to harsh handling |
| Obedience | 3 out of 5 | Can be reliable in calm environments. Their independent sighthound nature makes outdoor recall a challenge |
| Focus | 2 out of 5 | Easily distracted. Their visual acuity means anything moving in their environment becomes instantly relevant |
| Stubbornness | 3 out of 5 | Somewhat stubborn, particularly when motivated by something interesting in the environment |
Friendliness
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Good with family | 5 out of 5 | Deeply bonded to their person. Their attachment is intense and total |
| Good with children | 2 out of 5 | Better with older, gentle children. Their fragile bone structure makes them vulnerable to rough handling |
| Good with strangers | 3 out of 5 | Variable with strangers. Some are outgoing; others are shy and reserved until they've warmed up |
| Good with other dogs | 3 out of 5 | Can do well with other dogs, especially other Italian Greyhounds or similarly sized gentle dogs |
Adaptability
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Apartment living | 5 out of 5 | One of the best breeds for apartment living. Small, relatively quiet, and clean indoors |
| Cold weather | 1 out of 5 | Extremely sensitive to cold. A coat is essential for anything below 50 degrees |
| Hot weather | 4 out of 5 | Tolerates warmth better than cold. They actively seek warm spots and sunbeams |
| Routine flexibility | 3 out of 5 | Adaptable with their person but sensitive to disruptions in routine |
| First time owner | 3 out of 5 | Better suited to experienced owners who understand sighthound sensitivity |
Physical needs
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Energy level | 3 out of 5 | Moderate energy in spurts. They have explosive speed but also long rest periods |
| Endurance | 2 out of 5 | Built for speed, not endurance. Short, intense activity bursts are appropriate |
| Exercise needs | 3 out of 5 | Needs 20 to 30 minutes of daily exercise. Off-leash running in a secure area satisfies their sprint needs |
| Mental stimulation | 3 out of 5 | Intelligent and curious. They enjoy gentle games and light training |
| Grooming needs | 1 out of 5 | Short, smooth, very fine coat that requires minimal grooming |
Personality
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Playfulness | 4 out of 5 | Playful in a graceful way. They have bursts of speed and silliness |
| Affection | 5 out of 5 | Extremely affectionate. IGs are classic lap dogs and want to be under blankets with their person |
| Loyalty | 5 out of 5 | One of the most intensely bonded small breeds. Their devotion is total |
| Independence | 1 out of 5 | Very low independence. Extended alone time causes significant anxiety |
| Alertness | 3 out of 5 | Alert and visually sensitive. They notice movement at a distance |
Behavior
| Trait | Score | What does it mean? |
|---|---|---|
| Barking tendency | 2 out of 5 | Not particularly vocal |
| Digging tendency | 1 out of 5 | Not prone to digging |
| Chewing tendency | 2 out of 5 | Low chewing tendency |
| Prey drive | 5 out of 5 | Very high prey drive. Their sighthound instinct triggers on anything moving and overrides all other commands |
| Guarding instincts | 1 out of 5 | Too small and gentle to function as a guard dog |
What are common health issues of a Italian greyhound?
Like all breeds, Italian greyhounds are prone to certain health conditions. Here’s what to keep on your radar.
Luxating Patella
The kneecap slips out of place, causing your dog to skip or hold a leg up mid-stride. It is common in Italian Greyhounds and ranges from mild to severe. Some cases need surgery.
Read more about Luxating PatellaEpilepsy
A neurological condition causing recurring seizures, seen in Italian Greyhounds with some frequency. It often has a genetic component and is typically managed with daily medication.
Read more about EpilepsyLens Luxation
A condition where the lens of the eye shifts out of its normal position. It is seen in Italian Greyhounds and can cause pain and vision loss. Prompt vet care is essential.
Read more about Lens LuxationAutoimmune Disease
Italian Greyhounds can be prone to autoimmune conditions where the immune system attacks the body's own tissue. Signs vary widely, so regular vet checkups are especially important.
Read more about Autoimmune DiseaseDental Disease
Italian Greyhounds have small, crowded mouths prone to tartar buildup and gum disease. Regular brushing and professional cleanings are key to preventing tooth loss and infections.
Read more about Dental DiseaseWhat are the recommended health tests for Italian greyhounds?
Your Italian greyhound can’t tell you when something’s off. That’s what these tests are for. Here’s what vets typically recommend for them.
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OFA patella evaluation -
CAER ophthalmologist eye exam
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DNA test for progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
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Cardiac evaluation by a board-certified cardiologist
Do Italian greyhounds need pet insurance?
We’ll let the numbers do the talking, but spoiler: a lot of Italian greyhound owners are really glad they had coverage.
Those numbers aren’t hypotheticals. They’re real claims from real Italian greyhound owners in 2025.
The right pet insurance means you’re making decisions based on what your dog needs, not what you can afford.
With Lemonade, you can build a plan around your Iggy specifically. Start with accident and illness coverage as your base, then add on what makes sense for your dog, things like physical therapy, dental illness, or behavioral treatment, and skip what doesn’t. Coverage applies to conditions that aren’t pre-existing (AKA, a condition that occurs after your policy is active and your waiting periods have passed), and you’ll know exactly what’s included before you commit. No fine print ambushes, no surprises at claim time.
And when you do need to file? You can do it in the app in minutes. No paperwork, no hold music, no waiting around.
Italian greyhounds are worth protecting with proper coverage. Here’s how to do it right.
How much does pet insurance cost?
The cost of your premium is personal. It depends on your Iggys age, your location, and what you add to your plan. That said, here’s a realistic look at what other Italian greyhound owners pay with Lemonade:
| Age | Average monthly premium |
|---|---|
| 1 year old | $50-$55 |
| 2 years old | $50-$55 |
| 3 years old | $50-$55 |
| 4 years old | $50-$55 |
| 5 years old | $55-$60 |
| 6 years old | $65-$70 |
| 7 years old | $70-$75 |
Not sure if Lemonade is the right fit for your Iggy?
See how we stack up. Compare pet insurance options side by side and find the coverage that fits your Italian greyhound and your budget.
History of the Italian greyhound
The Italian Greyhound is one of the oldest toy breeds, with a history stretching back over 2,000 years. Small greyhound-type dogs appear in ancient Greek and Roman art and artifacts, and the breed was highly prized by European aristocracy throughout the Renaissance period. Italian courts from the 1300s onward kept small greyhounds as companions, and the breed became associated with royalty and nobility across Europe. King Frederick the Great of Prussia was a devoted Italian Greyhound owner, and the breed appears in portraits of Catherine the Great and Queen Victoria. The AKC recognized the Italian Greyhound in 1886. Despite their delicate appearance, they retain the sighthound's explosive speed and prey drive, and they require fully secure outdoor spaces because no recall command will stop a sighthound in pursuit of prey.
Caring for a Italian greyhound
Training
Training a Italian greyhound takes patience, but it’s worth the effort. They are sensitive, easily distracted, and difficult to motivate with standard methods, which means owners need to be gentle, creative, and especially patient with housetraining in particular. Positive reinforcement with high-value treats and a very gentle, patient approach tends to work best, and getting started early makes a real difference.
Whether you’re starting from scratch or leveling up, these are worth the read.
Grooming
Italian greyhounds have a short, smooth coat that requires minimal grooming. Weekly brushing with a soft cloth or rubber mitt is all the coat needs, and the occasional wipe-down keeps them looking their best. Despite their minimal coat care, Italian Greyhounds benefit from regular nail trims and dental care.
From nail trims to professional care, here’s everything you need to keep your Iggy looking (and feeling) their best.
Exercise and mental stimulation
Italian greyhounds have moderate to high energy levels and need 45 to 60 minutes of exercise each day to stay happy and healthy. Sprinting in a secure area, fetch, and short trail runs are all great ways to burn through that energy. But physical exercise is only half the picture. Italian greyhounds are moderately intelligent dogs, and mental stimulation is just as important as the miles you put in. Without it, they become anxious, destructive, and prone to hyperactive indoor behavior. Puzzle toys, training sessions, and scent work are all solid ways to keep their brain engaged between walks.
Here’s how to build an exercise routine your Italian greyhound will actually love.
Nutrition
Italian greyhounds are small dogs with moderate to high energy, so they need a diet to match. Most adults do well on around 400 to 550 calories a day, spread across two meals. Depending on what you’re feeding them, expect to spend around $25 to $40 a month on food. Not the cheapest line item, but not the most expensive either.
What goes in the bowl is your call, and your vet’s. Kibble, raw, fresh, or a combination: there’s no single right answer. Focus on quality ingredients, the right portions for your dog’s age and activity level, and you’re most of the way there.
Get the full picture on feeding a Italian greyhound here.
Italian greyhound costs and adoption
What does it cost to bring home a Italian greyhound?
Before your Italian greyhound even sets a paw in your home, there are some one-time costs worth planning for. Here’s what to expect upfront.
| Category | Cost Range | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Adoption (Reputable breeder) | $500-$1,500 | Health testing, vaccinations, early socialization, pedigree |
| Adoption (Rescue/shelter) | $50-$300 | Basic veterinary care, spay/neuter, temperament evaluation |
| Initial veterinary care | $300-$500 | Exam, vaccinations, spay/neuter if needed, microchip |
| Essential supplies | $100-$300 | Crate, bed, leash, collar, food bowls, toys |
| Training classes | $100-$200 | Basic obedience, puppy socialization |
Unexpected costs have a way of showing up in year one more than any other. A starter emergency fund alongside a solid pet insurance plan is the best way to make sure they don’t catch you off guard.
What does it cost to own a Italian greyhound each year?
Once you’re past year one, ownership costs settle into a more predictable rhythm. Here’s what most Italian greyhound owners spend annually, though keep in mind these numbers can vary quite a bit depending on where you live, your dog’s individual health needs, and the choices you make along the way.
| Category | Annual cost | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Food and treats | $300-$600 | Based on the recommended portion for your Italian greyhound |
| Routine Veterinary Care | $500-$1,000 | Wellness exams, vaccinations, dental care |
| Professional Grooming | $100-$300 | Every Every 8 to 12 weeks, Fine short coat needs almost no professional grooming; dental cleanings are the primary recurring professional expense. |
| Toys and Supplies | $100-$300 | Replacement items, mental stimulation toys |
What are popular Italian greyhound names?
We’ve crunched the numbers, and found the top 10 most popular names for Italian greyhound we see at Lemonade.
More names where those came from. If none of these are clicking, we’ve done the digging for you. Go find the one that sticks.
Italian greyhound puppies
Puppy veterinary needs
The first year matters a lot. What happens between 8 weeks and 12 months shapes who this dog becomes. Here’s what to focus on.
The first few months are the most important window for your puppy’s health. Core vaccines start at 6–8 weeks and continue through 16 weeks. After that, its annual boosters and routine screening as they grow into adults.
It’s a lot to keep track of. That’s why we made it easy.
Puppy socialization
Italian greyhound puppies are graceful, devoted, and perpetually seeking warmth and closeness with their person. That an elegance and intensity of bond that makes them one of the more unique small companions is part of what makes them a delicate, deeply bonded companion for owners who appreciate elegance and can provide the gentleness they need, and it’s also why early socialization matters so much.
Between 8 and 16 weeks, get them in front of as much variety as possible. Different people, animals, sounds, surfaces, and locations. Keep every experience positive. Puppy classes are great for this: supervised, controlled, and full of exactly the kind of novelty a Italian greyhound brain needs to learn that the world is mostly fine.
Where are Italian greyhound’s most popular in the United States?
Based on Lemonade’s own policyholder data, Italian greyhounds are most popular in these five states. We’ve also thrown in a few things local pet owners should keep an eye on, so your pup can get out there and explore safely.
1. California
Foxtail grass is one of the sneakiest hazards for California dogs. The barbed seeds can embed in paws, ears, and noses from late spring through early fall, so check your dog after any outdoor time. Wildfire smoke is also a real seasonal concern; when air quality alerts are in effect, it's best to keep walks short and stay indoors as much as possible.
2. New York
In New York City, street hazards are the main thing to watch. Dropped food, discarded gum containing xylitol, and litter are common ingestion risks on sidewalks and in parks. Upstate and in Long Island, the story shifts to ticks: New York is a Lyme disease hotspot, and black-legged ticks are active from early spring through late fall.
3. Florida
Florida's heat and humidity make heatstroke a real risk, especially in summer. Keep walks to cooler parts of the day and always bring water. Blue-green algae blooms in freshwater lakes and ponds can also be toxic to dogs, so it's best to keep pups out of standing or slow-moving water, particularly from late summer into fall.
4. Texas
Texas heat is intense and sets in early. Hot pavement can burn paws from late spring through early fall, and heatstroke risk is high during midday walks in cities like Houston, Dallas, and San Antonio. Rattlesnakes, scorpions, and fire ants are also common hazards, particularly in suburban and rural areas.
5. Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania is one of the highest-risk states for Lyme disease in the US, with ticks active across the state's forests, parks, and suburban green spaces. Copperhead snakes are also found in wooded and rocky areas, particularly in the central and eastern parts of the state, so watching where your dog explores is worth the habit.
Breed comparison
Already leaning toward a Italian greyhound? These breeds often get compared, here’s a quick snapshot of how they stack up.
Whippet
Both are sleek, sensitive sighthounds. Whippets are larger, sturdier, and more adaptable. Italian Greyhounds are more delicate, better for smaller spaces, and more lap-dog-oriented.
Read more
Greyhound
Both are sleek, sensitive sighthounds. Greyhounds are much larger but surprisingly more laid-back. Italian Greyhounds are more delicate and better suited to smaller living spaces.
Read more
Miniature Pinscher
Both are small, sleek, and athletic. Min Pins are bolder and more assertive. Italian Greyhounds are more sensitive, more gentle, and better suited to calm, quiet households.
Read more
Is a Italian greyhound right for you?
Italian greyhounds reward the right owner with a graceful beauty that is genuinely striking in person and turns heads on every walk and a total devotion that makes you feel irreplaceable. They just need daily dental care, a warm coat for cold weather, fully enclosed outdoor spaces, and careful management of jumping in return. If you’re ready for that, you’re ready for a Italian greyhound. Make sure they’re protected from day one.
A few quick words, because we <3 our lawyers: This post is general in nature, and any statement in it doesn’t alter the terms, conditions, exclusions, or limitations of the policies issued, which differ according to your state of residence. You’re encouraged to discuss your specific circumstances with your own professional advisors. The purpose of this post is merely to provide you with info and insights you can use to make such discussions more productive! Naturally, all comments by, or references to, third parties represent their own views, and Lemonade assumes no responsibility for them. Coverage may not be available in all states. Please note that statements about coverages, policy management, claims processes, Giveback, and customer support apply to policies underwritten by Lemonade Insurance Company or Metromile Insurance Company, a Lemonade company, sold by Lemonade Insurance Agency, LLC. The statements do not apply to policies underwritten by other carriers.
Insurance claim data is based on Lemonade pet insurance claims that were settled and paid in 2025.
Average insurance premium data is based on Lemonade’s internal data and reflects the average premium over the last 12 complete months, accurate as of June 2026.
Top pet names are sourced from Lemonade’s database of pet names associated with submitted quotes and purchased policies.
Top states for each breed are based on the number of active Lemonade pet insurance policies for that breed in each state as of June 2026.