About the Italian Greyhound
Miniature version of the Greyhound, bred purely as a companion for nobility for over 2,000 years. Delicate, elegant, and remarkably fast for their tiny 7–14 lb frame.
Weight Range
7–14
lbs
Size
🐕 Toy Breed
Activity
🚶 Moderate Activity
Lifespan
14-15 years
Italian Greyhound Temperament & Personality
Swipe to explore personality traits →
Playful
Loves games, toys, and interactive fun — keeps their youthful spirit throughout life.
Alert
Highly aware of their surroundings and quick to notice changes or approaching visitors.
Sensitive
Emotionally perceptive and responsive to tone — thrives with gentle, positive handling.
Athletic
Physically powerful with natural stamina — built for sport and vigorous exercise.
Affectionate
Deeply loving and enjoys physical closeness, cuddles, and bonding with their family.
Italian Greyhound Health & Dietary Needs
Common Health Considerations
Breed-Specific Nutritional Guidance
Very small, delicate breed prone to hypoglycemia and dental disease. Small frequent meals prevent blood sugar drops. Dental-health foods important — tooth loss is extremely common. Adequate calcium supports fragile bones.
Estimated Daily Calories for Italian Greyhounds
Based on a typical 11 lb Italian Greyhound with moderate activity level:
374
calories per day
* This is an estimate using the RER formula (70 × weight_kg^0.75 × activity multiplier). Use our calculator below for a precise recommendation based on your dog's exact weight, age, and condition.
Complete Italian Greyhound Feeding Guide
Expert Tips for Italian Greyhounds
Feed 3 small meals daily. Dental care through diet is essential — tooth loss is near-universal without intervention. Very sensitive to cold — may need more calories in winter.
Practical Feeding Guidelines
Meal Frequency
Feed 2-3 small meals per day to maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Portion Control
Always measure portions with a kitchen scale or measuring cup. Treats should not exceed 10% of daily calories.
Hydration
Ensure fresh water is always available. A Italian Greyhound needs approximately 6–11 oz of water daily.
Weight Monitoring
Weigh your Italian Greyhound monthly and adjust portions accordingly. Ideal body condition means you can feel (but not see) the ribs.
Get Your Italian Greyhound's Exact Calorie Needs
Our free calculator uses veterinarian-approved formulas to give you a personalized feeding recommendation based on your Italian Greyhound's exact weight, age, activity level, and body condition.
Calculate Now — It's Free