Greyhound vs Italian Greyhound
Breed Snapshot
Best For
The Greyhound is a sleek sighthound known for their incredible speed and gentle demeanor. Originating from ancient Egypt, Greyhounds have long been sought after by royalty and nobility, and were prized for their game-chasing abilities....
The Greyhound is a sleek sighthound known for their incredible speed and gentle demeanor. Originating from ancient Egypt, Greyhounds have long been sought after by royalty and nobility, and were prized for their game-chasing abilities. Today, these dogs make affectionate companions and family pets.
Greyhound Temperament
Greyhounds (aka English Greyhounds) are friendly, gentle dogs who make great family pets. This dog breed has spurts of energy they need to get rid of (off-leash) throughout the day, but once their energy is depleted, they’re quiet and calm. Unless there’s a rabbit or a squirrel...
Greyhounds (aka English Greyhounds) are friendly, gentle dogs who make great family pets.
This dog breed has spurts of energy they need to get rid of (off-leash) throughout the day, but once their energy is depleted, they’re quiet and calm. Unless there’s a rabbit or a squirrel nearby, they are a pretty chill breed who will lie at your feet when you’re relaxing at home.
Because Greyhounds are sighthounds (dogs who hunt by sight instead of by scent), they were bred to pursue game independently of their human hunting buddies. That means they have a rather independent streak, so proper training and early socialization will help them be well-mannered members of the family.
Greyhound Traits
Breed Snapshot
Best For
Italian Greyhounds are elegant and affectionate pups who require minimal grooming—but they'll also need plenty of exercise due to their high energy levels. Say ciao to these little dogs with a big personality and...
Italian Greyhounds are elegant and affectionate pups who require minimal grooming—but they'll also need plenty of exercise due to their high energy levels. Say ciao to these little dogs with a big personality and plenty of love to give.
Italian Greyhound Temperament
The Italian Greyhound’s temperament is surprisingly varied. On the one hand, these hounds can really take off with that infamous Greyhound speed when they see a small critter go by or they just have the urge to do some zoomies. But on the other hand, the Italian Greyhound bre...
The Italian Greyhound’s temperament is surprisingly varied. On the one hand, these hounds can really take off with that infamous Greyhound speed when they see a small critter go by or they just have the urge to do some zoomies. But on the other hand, the Italian Greyhound breed also enjoys quality time snoozing on the couch.
These pups are affectionate with loved ones and even a little mischievous (“Oh, you don’t want me to grab these socks you just folded and run around the house with them in my mouth? Huh… OK, then!”). They may take some time to warm up to strangers but are rarely aggressive toward people.
Italian Greyhounds are great with families and do well with kids, as long as they respect the dog’s boundaries. These thin dogs have fragile bodies, and if given the choice between playing tea party or playing soccer, they’re probably going to choose going for a walk instead. (Besides, everyone knows Italian Greyhounds prefer puppacinos, and it’s called football. Sheesh.) For pet parents living in a multi-dog household, Italian Greyhounds are best suited with other small dogs to prevent injuries they could sustain if playing with a large dog.
When it comes to cats, however, it’s a mixed bag. Some Italian Greyhounds may need to be reminded that cats are friends, not food. The prey instinct can be higher in some Italian Greyhounds than others, and if they see Mr. Fluffy as prey rather than pal, they’ll give chase and hunt.
With their humans, though, Italian Greyhounds are affectionate, sweet and gentle, and ready at any time to accompany you on your next adventure, whether it’s a stroll down the street or a siesta in the afternoon.
Italian Greyhound Traits
