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Italian Greyhound Puppy and Dog Information
By otaffy
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The Italian Greyhound is meant for a quiet apartment or home. She does not do well with loud, rough children, as her bones can be brittle as a puppy, and she is delicate in both body and mind. She is a good watch dog and loves her family. The Italian Greyhound is meant for a quiet apartment or home. She does not do well with loud, rough children, as her bones can be brittle as a puppy, and she is delicate in both body and mind. She is a good watch dog and loves her family. She can do well with other respectful dogs and animals, especially if she is socialized with them at an early age. If she is housed with other dogs, be aware that they should not be large dogs. She is a climber, and may even climb out of a fenced enclosure. Keep her controlled when outside, as she can run very fast and can be almost impossible to catch if she does not want to be caught. Approximate Adult Size The approximate adult size (2 years old or older) of the Italian Greyhound is 12 to 15 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 6 to 10 pounds. There is an under 8 pound class and an over 8 pound class. Special Health Considerations Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed, and the Italian Greyhound is no exception. Although they are a healthy breed, be on the look out for progressive retinal atrophy (inherited disease of the retina that can cause vision loss and blindness), slipped stifle and epilepsy (common in dogs). Additionally, Italian Greyhound puppies under 18 months old are prone to broken legs due to fragile developing bones. This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats. Please contact your veterinarian for a complete list. She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters, and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, 6 years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember: avoid feeding your dog sweets. Grooming The Italian Greyhound has a short, fine coat that is like satin to the touch. She just needs an occasional rubdown with a soft cloth. When she needs a rare bath, be sure that she is dried properly and kept warm. Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath, and other serious disease. Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet. Generally, a guillotine-type trimmer is the best for this chore, and competent instructions to accomplish this can be found on the net. Life Span The Italian Greyhound can live between 14 and 16 years with proper nutrition, medical care, and excellent living conditions. History The Italian Greyhound comes from Italy. They are a small sight hound and were bred as pets. They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1886. Some Registries Italian Greyhound Club of America UKC United Kennel Club NKC National Kennel Club CKC Continental Kennel Club APRI Americas Pet Registry Inc. AKC American Kennel Club FCI Federation Cynologique Internationale NZKC New Zealand Kennel Club KCGB Kennel Club of Great Britain ANKC Australian National Kennel Club ACR American Canine Registry Litter Size 3 to 5 Italian Greyhound puppies. Category Toy *Special Good Points They barely shed. Not a spoiled brat. Generally has good manners. Good watch dog. *Special Bad Points Can be a chore to housebreak. Can be destructive, especially if left alone. Does not like criticism. Does not like it cold. Poor guard dog. Other Names Known By Piccolo Levrieri Italiani Every dog is an individual, so not everything in this information may be correct for your dog. This information is meant as a good faith guideline only. About the Author: Mitch Endick is a short article writer for the popular pet site: http://www.petpages.com. He provides informative advice on all pets - including dogs, puppies, cats, fish, reptiles, birds, ferrets, rabbits, mice, and even pet bugs. Petpages.com also has an extensive pet classified ads section. Article Source: 1st Rate Articles - http://1stRateArticles.com |
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