Tag-Archive for ◊ Iggie ◊
Poppet and JJ enjoying the morning sunshine
Poppet kisses are the best
Poppet cuddles and morning sunshine, HAPPY DAZE
This very old breed is Italian in name only, since there is evidence that it existed in Egypt some 2000 years ago. It was for several centuries the favourite of Italian nobility and this is no doubt the origin of its present-day name. Very much a true miniature version of the Greyhound, this tiny toy breed still carries the instincts of the hunting sighthound, although its size restricts its possibilities somewhat! A very slender, graceful dog with fine bones, the Italian Greyhound is not as delicate as it looks, at least physically. It should not, however, be allowed to run with bigger dogs and children need to be conscious of its size when playing. The Iggy, or IG, as its breeders call it, has a quiet, reserved, gentle, affectionate nature and may have a tendency to timidity.
Lickers, Lovers and pursuers of warmth, Italian Greyhounds have a well-deserved reputation for sticking quite literally to their owners sides and lavishing them with all the affection a Toy breed can muster.
The Italian Greyhounds beautiful soft eyes, pleading expression and sensitive nature suit them to companionship. Not exactly a lap dog – those long legs just don’t fit – Iggies instead seek constant physical contact with their folk..
Notorious for wheedling their way under the covers and draping themselves over their owners, the Iggies physicality is part of the breed’s charm.
Poppet and Tara always find the warmest spot….. maneuvering themselves so as much of their bodies as possible touching mine at all times.
A fellow Iggie owner asked me recently ‘does yours do that thing too, wedging themselves between you and then furniture ‘- we had a good giggle.
Even though Italian Greyhounds are members of the Toy Group, they are ALL HOUND!!
They are true little sighthounds – they can just fly!
Many participate in agility and the racing sport of lure coursing. Quick, athletic and with a true hound instinct Italian Greyhounds will chase.
This means IGs require leashes and high, sturdy fences to prevent the, from darting across the road after a rabbit or dashing off to say hello to a friend.
Cute Italian Greyhound licking its lips
The Greyhound (Italian or mini or Iggie and the standard larger Greyhound) is a strong, muscular dog, built for sprinting over short distances. The Italian Greyhound is the true miniature Greyhound.
The Italian Greyhound belongs to the sighthound (or gazehound) group which includes Afghans, Borzoi, Salukis, Deerhounds, Irish Wolfhounds, Pharaoh Hounds, and Whippets. These are breeds which hunt their quarry primarily by sight rather than scent.
Tara chilling out - enjoying the Winter sun
The personality of an Italian Greyhound is unlike any other breed!
They are almost cat-like in the respect that they enjoy sunbathing. Care should be taken that your Iggy does not become sunburned or overheated. A picnic-style blanket and chew toy laid out in the warmth of the sunshine in your back yard is an IGs idea of heaven.
Italian Greyhounds like to be up on high spots in your house (such as back of chairs, sofas and even on top of the dining room table). If there is a window view they are especially thrilled. Care should be taken with puppies and young adults that they are not given the opportunity to attempt daredevil stunts off the back of such things!!
Getting wet is usually avoided by IGs (unless by choice) and will very often refuse to do any ‘business’ outside when raining. If the grass is wet in the morning, the path or paving will do for an IG. If the occasional accident in the house is not acceptable to you, the IG is probably NOT for you.