What is the Difference Between Greyhound and Italian Greyhound?

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The Greyhound and Italian Greyhound are both sighthounds, but they have some key differences in terms of size, appearance, and temperament. Here are the main differences between the two breeds:

  1. Size: Greyhounds are large to giant dogs, standing 28 to 30 inches tall and weighing between 60 and 100 pounds. Italian Greyhounds, on the other hand, are much smaller, with a height of 12 to 15 inches and weighing less than 10 pounds.
  2. Appearance: Greyhounds have a more muscular build due to their extensive hunting and racing heritage. Italian Greyhounds are slender and smaller in stature, appearing to be a miniature version of the Greyhound.
  3. Temperament: Greyhounds are friendly, gentle dogs that are not known to be aggressive. Italian Greyhounds have a more varied temperament, being affectionate with loved ones but also having an independent streak. They are also more prone to chasing small animals, including cats.
  4. Exercise and Living Needs: Italian Greyhounds require less space and are easier to exercise compared to Greyhounds. They are also more adaptable in their living needs and do well in apartments and various other home situations.
  5. Training: Both breeds are sensitive and require consistent training. Italian Greyhounds have a similar attitude during training scenarios as Greyhounds, wanting to make their owners happy but needing a lot of consistency in training.

In summary, while Greyhounds and Italian Greyhounds share some similarities as sighthounds, they have distinct differences in terms of size, appearance, and temperament. Italian Greyhounds are smaller, more adaptable, and have a more varied temperament compared to Greyhounds.

Comparative Table: Greyhound vs Italian Greyhound

Here is a table comparing the differences between Greyhounds and Italian Greyhounds:

Feature Italian Greyhound Greyhound
Height 13-15 inches @ shoulder 27-30 inches @ shoulder
Weight 7-14 pounds 60-70 pounds
Appearance Small, slender with a refined build Larger, muscular with a slim, athletic build
Snout, Jaw, Legs, Tail Shorter snout, jaw, legs, and tail Longer snout, jaw, legs, and tail
Personality Lively, playful, and high energy More laid-back and calm
Sleeping Habits Less sleep, higher energy levels More sleep, calm demeanor
Trainability Difficult to housetrain but quick to learn basic commands ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

In summary, Italian Greyhounds are smaller, more slender, and have a more lively and playful personality compared to Greyhounds. They also have a more delicate and refined build, shorter snout, jaw, legs, and tail. On the other hand, Greyhounds are larger, muscular, and have a more laid-back personality. They also have a longer snout, jaw, legs, and tail.