Italian Greyhound Longevity & Hereditary Health Guide

The Italian greyhound puppies represent the smallest of the sighthound group and uniquely combine the elegance of a greyhound with the charm of a toy dog. Typically standing up to 15 inches at the withers and weighing around 8.2kg, Italian greyhounds are slender and lightweight rather than simply short, offering an elegant silhouette and surprising speed. Despite their delicate frame, they can reach speeds of up to 25mph, showing their robust nature when appropriately cared for.

This breed’s fine, short coat comes in many colours and requires protection from cold weather due to their limited insulation and slim build – many owners choose coats and booties for walks in chillier months.

If you are considering welcoming an Italian greyhound into your home, understanding their typical lifespan, hereditary health concerns, and how to ensure a safe, happy life is essential. This guide provides detailed information to help you become a responsible and knowledgeable owner.

Italian Greyhound Longevity: What to Expect

While some earlier figures suggested an average lifespan of around 9 years, more current veterinary and breed health findings reveal that Italian greyhounds commonly live between 13 and 15 years, with some reaching 18 years with proper care. This lifespan aligns well with other small-sized breeds, showing their capacity for a long, healthy life if their unique needs are met.

Due to their delicate, fine bones, injury risk can impact lifespan, so careful handling and a safe home environment are critical components to longevity. Understanding and mitigating risks contributes significantly to supporting your Italian greyhound’s quality of life and lifespan.

Genetic Diversity and Responsible Breeding

The breed’s genetic diversity is somewhat limited, with a coefficient of inbreeding around 10.9%, which is above the optimal 6.25%. This means that reputable Italian greyhound breeders should focus on reducing inbreeding to promote healthier gene pools. Responsible breeders conduct health testing and genetic screening to minimize hereditary disease prevalence and promote overall breed wellbeing.

Conformation and Fragility: What to Protect Against

Italian greyhounds have a slim, lightweight build that requires extra care to prevent injuries, especially limb fractures which are common due to their delicate legs. Special attention is needed during playtime and when around stairs or slippery floors. This breed thrives in calm homes where hazards are minimised and where their slender frame is respected.

Key Hereditary Health Conditions and Testing Recommendations

The breed is generally healthy but can be prone to specific hereditary conditions. Notably, the British Veterinary Association does not mandate routine health screening for Italian greyhounds, but proactive testing is advisable for concerned owners and breeders. Some important conditions include:

• CERF eye testing: to monitor ocular health and identify issues early.
• Von Willebrand’s factor testing: a blood clotting disorder that can impact health.
• X-rays for Legg-Calve-Perthes disease: a condition affecting the hip joint.

Other commonly observed health issues in the breed include:

• Epilepsy – often manageable with medication but affected dogs should not be bred.
• Fragile limb bones prone to fractures.
• Polyendocrine syndrome – an autoimmune disorder affecting hormone regulation.
• Colitis – a recurring inflammatory bowel disease requiring diet management.
• Hereditary cataracts and vitreal syneresis – eye conditions that may require monitoring.
• Patellar luxation – kneecap displacement which can affect mobility.
• Progressive retinal atrophy – leading to potential blindness, more common in some lines.
• Periodontal disease – dental health issues necessitating regular dental care.
• Hypothyroidism – underactive thyroid manageable with medication.
• Colour dilution alopecia – hair loss in dilute coloured coat types.
• Autoimmune haemolytic anaemia and liver shunts – rarer but serious conditions.

Promoting a Long, Healthy Life for Your Italian Greyhound

Ensuring your Italian greyhound thrives involves:

• Obtaining your puppy from reputable breeders who perform recommended health screenings and focus on diversity to avoid hereditary diseases.
• Keeping their fragile bones safe with careful handling, avoiding rough play and risky environments.
• Protecting them from cold weather with suitable clothing and warm bedding due to their fine coat.
• Providing a balanced diet tailored for small, active breeds to maintain ideal weight and energy.
• Maintaining regular dental hygiene routines and veterinary check-ups at least twice yearly to catch issues early.
• Monitoring for any signs of hereditary conditions, particularly eye and neurological health, and consulting your vet promptly.

Conclusion: Italian Greyhounds as Healthy, Loving Companions

With their sleek, elegant build and affectionate nature, Italian greyhounds make delightful pets for owners seeking a smaller sighthound breed. Though they require special attention due to their delicate frame and some hereditary health concerns, responsible ownership and breeder selection can help your dog enjoy a long and happy life of 13 to 15 years or more.

Understanding their unique needs and health risks, along with ensuring proper care and environment, will help you cherish a faithful, lively companion for many years. If you’re thinking of adding an Italian greyhound to your family, use this guide as a reliable source to make informed, caring choices.