## Quick Facts

- Powerful Brazilian mastiff developed as a guardian and big‑game hunting dog with a famously strong protective instinct  
- Naturally reserved and suspicious with strangers, yet deeply affectionate and loyal with its family  
- Impressive size and loose, heavy skin that gives the Fila Brasileiro its distinctive, slightly “wrinkled” appearance  
- Not a breed for first‑time owners, as it requires confident handling, careful socialisation, and responsible management  
- Calm and surprisingly gentle at home, but needs space, structure, and clear rules to thrive  

## Appearance & Coat

The Fila Brasileiro is a large, strongly built molosser whose presence is impossible to ignore. This is a massive dog, but not just heavy. The breed combines substance with agility and a cat‑like suppleness that surprises many people who expect a slow, lumbering mastiff.

Males typically stand around 65 to 75 centimetres at the shoulder, with females only slightly smaller. Weight varies with bloodline and condition, yet many adult males weigh well over 50 kilograms. The body is longer than it is tall, giving the Fila a rectangular outline when viewed from the side. The bone structure is powerful and the chest deep, with a strong back and broad, muscular hindquarters that provide impressive drive when the dog moves.

One of the most striking features is the loose skin. It is thick and abundant over the neck and body, forming a noticeable dewlap under the throat. Wrinkling on the head and neck is visible when the dog is alert or lowering its head. The head itself is large and heavy, with a broad skull, pronounced muzzle, and a serious, almost melancholy expression that suits the breed’s dignified nature. The ears are large, pendant, and hang close to the cheeks, adding to the mastiff‑like look.

The coat of the Fila Brasileiro is short, dense, and smooth to the touch. It lies close to the body and provides basic protection without needing elaborate grooming. Accepted colours include:

- Fawn in various shades from light to dark  
- Brindle in different intensities, often with a tiger‑stripe effect  
- Black, depending on registry standards  

Some registries allow a small white patch on the chest, feet, or tail tip, but large white markings or piebald patterns are generally undesirable. Many Filas have a distinct black mask that highlights the muzzle and eyes, giving the dog a serious and alert expression.

Coat care is simple but should not be neglected. A weekly brushing with a rubber grooming mitt or soft bristle brush helps remove loose hair and keeps the skin healthy. During seasonal shedding, more frequent brushing can greatly reduce hair on furniture and clothing. Routine care should also include:

- Regular checks and gentle cleaning of the ears, since the heavy ear leather can trap moisture  
- Nail trimming every few weeks, especially for dogs kept mostly on soft ground  
- Occasional baths when the dog gets dirty or develops a noticeable doggy odour  

Because of the loose skin and heavy frame, it is helpful to keep the Fila Brasileiro lean and well‑muscled. Excess weight can stress the joints and lead to discomfort, so monitoring body condition is as much a part of appearance care as brushing the coat. With basic maintenance and good nutrition, the Fila maintains its noble, powerful look with surprisingly little daily grooming effort.

## Temperament & Personality

The temperament of the Fila Brasileiro is both its greatest strength and its greatest challenge. This is a breed shaped by centuries of work as a guardian and big‑game hunting dog, and those roots show clearly in modern Filas. Anyone considering this breed must understand that the Fila is not meant to behave like a sociable retriever or an easygoing toy dog.

At home, with the people it knows and trusts, the Fila is often described as deeply affectionate, calm, and surprisingly gentle. Many owners compare the breed to a very large shadow that follows its favourite person from room to room. The Fila forms intense bonds with its family and can be particularly attached to one main handler. With the right upbringing, it is often patient and tolerant with respectful children, though close supervision is always essential because of the dog’s sheer size and strength. Even a friendly bump from a happy Fila can knock a small child over.

The other side of the Fila’s nature appears when strangers arrive. Traditional breed temperament includes a strong natural distrust of unfamiliar people. A typical Fila will not welcome petting from visitors and rarely enjoys socialising with strangers on the street. Instead, it tends to stay reserved, watchful, and ready to act if it perceives a threat. This protective instinct is powerful and largely instinctive, so the responsibility on the owner is significant. Clear rules, careful introductions, and consistent leadership are absolutely vital.

With other dogs, behaviour can vary. Some Filas live peacefully with other dogs of the opposite sex, especially if they grow up together. Others can be intolerant, particularly with same‑sex dogs or pushy unfamiliar dogs. This is not a dog park breed. Even a well‑trained and stable Fila is often happiest with calm, managed interactions and a predictable circle of animal companions. Filas can sometimes live with cats or other small animals if raised with them from puppyhood, but their hunting heritage means that supervision is always important, and not every individual will be safe with small pets.

Common challenges for new owners include:

- Managing the dog’s reactions to unknown people  
- Balancing the need for early socialisation with the need to avoid overwhelming or threatening situations  
- Accepting that this is a guardian breed that will probably never behave like a carefree, everyone‑friendly dog  

Despite these challenges, many experienced owners treasure the Fila Brasileiro for its loyalty, steadiness in familiar surroundings, and strong sense of duty toward its family. When chosen thoughtfully and handled responsibly, the breed can be an outstanding guardian and a devoted companion in the right hands.

## Training & Exercise

Training a Fila Brasileiro requires patience, consistency, and a calm, confident attitude. This is a powerful working breed with an independent mind and a natural sense of responsibility. Filas are intelligent, but they are not automatic pleasers. They respond to people they respect and trust, not to harsh handling or chaotic leadership.

Positive reinforcement methods work very well. This means rewarding good behaviour with food, praise, toys, or access to things the dog enjoys. Heavy‑handed techniques, shouting, or physical corrections can easily damage the relationship and may trigger defensive reactions in a breed that is already sensitive about threats. Instead, focus on clear boundaries, simple commands, and structured routines. A Fila that understands the rules and sees its owner as a reliable leader will usually cooperate willingly.

Early training should focus on the basics:

- Walking politely on a lead, including around mild distractions  
- Reliable recall within safe, enclosed areas  
- Solid “sit,” “down,” “stay,” and “leave it” commands  
- Calm behaviour when visitors arrive, managed through leads, barriers, and place training  

Socialisation is important, but it must be done thoughtfully. The goal is not to make the Fila love everyone. Instead, the aim is to help the puppy experience a wide variety of people, animals, surfaces, and environments in a controlled, positive way. Short, calm outings where the puppy can observe the world from a comfortable distance are more valuable than chaotic dog parks or crowded events where the young Fila feels pressured or threatened. Owners should gently reward calm curiosity and never force interaction with strangers.

In terms of exercise, the Fila Brasileiro does not need marathon runs, but it does need regular, meaningful activity. Daily walks, play sessions, and mental stimulation are essential. As a large and still‑growing breed, young Filas should avoid forced running or long stair climbing that could stress developing joints. As adults, many enjoy:

- Steady, moderate walks or hikes on a strong lead  
- Tracking games that make use of their powerful sense of smell  
- Problem‑solving tasks, such as finding hidden toys or treats in the garden  
- Controlled retrieving or tug games, as long as rules are clear  

Off‑lead freedom should be limited to securely fenced areas. This is a protective dog, and its response to a perceived threat may be intense and very fast. Reliable recall helps, but no recall is perfect, and responsible management is crucial.

Mental exercise is just as important as physical activity. Basic obedience practice, scent games, and learning new household tasks can keep the Fila’s mind engaged. Some enjoy structured activities such as tracking or obedience work tailored to guardian breeds, provided the environment is controlled and respectful of the dog’s reserved nature.

Ultimately, a well‑trained Fila Brasileiro is calm, responsive to its owner, and aware of its role. Achieving that balance requires time, consistency, and a serious commitment to training from puppyhood through adulthood.

## Health

Like many large and giant breeds, the Fila Brasileiro comes with some specific health considerations. Responsible breeders work hard to improve overall health, but anyone interested in the breed should be aware of the issues that can appear and the preventive steps that make a real difference.

One of the most common concerns is hip dysplasia, a hereditary condition where the hip joint does not develop correctly. This can lead to pain, lameness, and arthritis over time. Elbow dysplasia is another joint problem that may affect the front legs. Reputable breeders typically screen their breeding dogs with official hip and elbow evaluations and select only sound animals for breeding. Prospective owners should always ask to see health test results for both parents.

Other conditions that may affect Filas include:

- Gastric dilatation and volvulus, often called bloat, which is a potentially life‑threatening twisting of the stomach. This is more common in deep‑chested, large breeds. Feeding two or three smaller meals each day, avoiding vigorous exercise right after eating, and learning the signs of bloat are all important preventive steps.  
- Eye problems such as entropion and ectropion, where the eyelids roll inward or outward and can irritate the eye. Loose facial skin can contribute to these issues in some individuals.  
- Skin infections in the folds if the skin is not kept clean and dry. Regular checks and prompt treatment of hot spots or rashes can help.  
- Orthopaedic strain due to rapid growth, especially if puppies are over‑fed or given intense exercise too early.  

Typical lifespan for a Fila Brasileiro is often around 9 to 11 years, though some live longer with good care and a bit of luck. As with most large breeds, joint health, weight control, and heart health are key factors in quality of life. Keeping the dog lean and well conditioned can significantly reduce stress on bones and joints.

Recommended health tests for breeding stock usually include:

- Official hip dysplasia scoring  
- Elbow dysplasia evaluation  
- Eye examination by a veterinary ophthalmologist, particularly in lines where eye issues have occurred  

Routine veterinary care is just as important as genetic testing. Regular check‑ups, vaccinations according to local guidelines, parasite control, and dental care all play a part in keeping a Fila healthy. Many Filas benefit from joint‑supportive supplements, especially as they age, although any supplements should be discussed with a vet.

Owners should be realistic about the costs of caring for a large dog. Everything from food to medication and surgery tends to be more expensive when the patient weighs over 50 kilograms. Insurance or a dedicated savings plan can provide peace of mind.

By choosing a responsible breeder, asking the right health questions, and committing to ongoing veterinary care, prospective owners can greatly improve the chances of sharing many good years with a healthy Fila Brasileiro.

## History & Origins

The story of the Fila Brasileiro begins in Brazil, where it developed as a versatile working dog for plantations, farms, and large rural estates. The breed’s ancestors likely included European mastiffs and bloodhounds brought to South America by Portuguese and other colonists. Over time, these imported dogs were crossed and shaped by local conditions, eventually producing a distinct Brazilian mastiff type that could handle the harsh climate and demanding work.

Historically, Filas were all‑purpose helpers for landowners. They guarded property, livestock, and families from human threats and predators. Their courage and determination made them valuable for hunting large and dangerous game such as jaguars and wild boar. The breed needed a combination of traits that might seem contradictory at first glance. Filas had to be:

- Fearless and ready to confront threats  
- Strong enough to hold large animals if needed  
- Loyal and gentle with their own people  

This background helps explain the Fila’s modern temperament. The strong suspicion of strangers that is characteristic of the breed today reflects its historic role as a guardian. While other farm dogs might simply bark an alarm, the Fila was expected to be a serious deterrent and, if necessary, a direct protector.

Over the 19th and early 20th centuries, the Fila Brasileiro became firmly established on Brazilian farms and ranches. However, as urbanisation increased and lifestyles changed, the breed’s use as a traditional working farm dog declined. At the same time, enthusiasts began to standardise the breed and present it at dog shows. A formal breed standard was developed to preserve its appearance and, more importantly, its distinct working character.

Today, the Fila Brasileiro is recognised by several national kennel clubs and by international organisations that classify it among the molosser guardian breeds. Outside Brazil, it remains a relatively rare dog, partly because of its demanding temperament and partly because of legal restrictions in some countries on powerful guarding breeds. In several places, ownership may be regulated or discouraged, so prospective owners should always check local laws before bringing a Fila home.

In modern times, the breed’s primary role is that of a property and family guardian. Some Filas continue to work on rural estates and farms, but many live as companions in homes that appreciate their loyalty and seriousness. While they may appear at dog shows and breed events, they are not typically used in highly social competitive sports, because the traditional temperament does not lend itself to constant contact with strangers and unfamiliar dogs.

Understanding these working roots helps explain why the Fila Brasileiro behaves as it does today. The same traits that once protected remote farms and hunting parties still live in the modern breed. This is not simply a large pet, but a living piece of Brazilian working dog history that demands respect and careful stewardship in the present.

## Living with the Breed

Living with a Fila Brasileiro is a commitment that affects almost every part of daily life. This is a dog that cannot be treated as an afterthought or casual hobby. Before bringing one home, it is important to honestly evaluate your experience level, lifestyle, and environment.

Space is a key consideration. Although Filas can be surprisingly calm indoors, they are large, heavy dogs that need room to move comfortably. A house with a securely fenced garden is usually far more suitable than a small flat. The fencing should be strong and high enough to contain a determined, agile guardian. Filas are territorial and will patrol their boundary, so good neighbours and clear boundaries are important.

Family life with a Fila can be very rewarding. With their own people, many are affectionate and gentle, often lying under the table or resting at their owner’s feet. They usually prefer a stable, predictable household rather than a constant flow of visitors. Children must be taught to respect the dog’s size and personal space, and interactions should always be supervised. Because of the Fila’s protective instinct, situations where unfamiliar children run or scream around the dog should be avoided or managed extremely carefully, as the dog may misinterpret such behaviour.

Daily care involves:

- Quality food, with costs higher than for smaller dogs due to the Fila’s size  
- Regular grooming sessions, which are quick but still important for skin and coat health  
- Thoughtful exercise routines that combine moderate physical work with mental stimulation  
- Ongoing training and management to ensure the dog remains responsive and under control  

Annual costs will vary by region, but it is wise to plan for higher than average expenses. Food bills, vet fees, medication dosages, and insurance premiums all increase with body weight. Large dogs also require more robust equipment. Essential items usually include:

- A strong, well‑fitted collar and a secure harness for controlled walks  
- A sturdy lead, often shorter for close control in public areas  
- A spacious, supportive bed that cushions joints and allows the dog to stretch out  
- Heavy‑duty food and water bowls that are stable enough not to slide or tip easily  
- Safe chew toys sized for a powerful jaw  

Because of the breed’s protective nature, visitors must be managed thoughtfully. Many Fila owners use baby gates, crates, or a separate room when unfamiliar people come to the house. Teaching the dog a reliable “place” command and rewarding calm behaviour behind a barrier can make everyday life much smoother. Owners should also be prepared for the reality that some activities, such as relaxed visits to busy cafés or open dog parks, may not be appropriate for this breed.

Time commitment is another factor. A Fila that is left alone for long periods without mental or physical engagement may become stressed or frustrated. While they can tolerate reasonable alone time if introduced gradually and given a secure space, they are, at heart, family dogs that prefer to be near their people.

For experienced dog owners who truly understand guardian breeds and are ready to invest in proper training, social management, and health care, the Fila Brasileiro can be an extraordinary companion. It offers a depth of loyalty and devotion that many people find unmatched. However, for first‑time owners or families seeking a carefree, social dog that fits easily into any environment, another breed may be a more suitable and harmonious choice.

Fila Brasileiro

The Kennel Club (UK)

Svenska Kennelklubben (Sweden)

Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)

Dansk Kennel Klub (Denmark)

Norwegian Kennel Club

Large Brazilian mastiff bred for guarding and big‑game hunting. Massive, agile, with loose skin and short coat. Deeply loyal and gentle with family but wary of strangers. Needs experienced, confident handling, careful socialisation, space, and steady, structured training.

## Quick Facts

- The Italian Greyhound is the smallest of all sighthound breeds, with a fine-boned, elegant build that looks almost sculpted.
- Despite their delicate appearance, they are surprisingly athletic and love short bursts of high-speed play.
- Italian Greyhounds are famously affectionate and tend to form an intense bond with one or two special people.
- The breed has a very short, low-shedding coat, but they feel the cold easily and need extra warmth in cooler climates.
- Sensitive and intelligent, Italian Greyhounds respond best to gentle, reward-based training and a calm, consistent household.


## Appearance & Coat

The Italian Greyhound is often described as a miniature Greyhound, but a closer look shows that this breed has its own distinct outline and elegance. Adults typically stand about 32 to 38 centimeters at the shoulder, and most weigh between 3.5 and 6 kilograms. The overall impression should be one of fine, harmonious proportions. Nothing should look coarse or heavy. The body is lean, with a deep but narrow chest and a tucked-up waist, giving that classic sighthound silhouette.

The head is long and narrow with a refined muzzle, dark expressive eyes, and small ears that fold back like little rose petals when relaxed. When the Italian Greyhound is alert, the ears often lift and fold forward, adding to their almost deer-like expression. The neck is long and graceful, blending smoothly into well-laid shoulders. Legs are straight, slender, and quite long for the dog’s size, which helps create their light, floating movement. They move with a characteristic high-stepping trot that looks airy and elegant.

The coat is one of the Italian Greyhound’s most distinctive features. It is very short, fine, and close to the skin without any undercoat. When you stroke an Italian Greyhound, you can easily feel the muscles and bones underneath. Acceptable colors vary somewhat by country, but generally include shades of:

- Solid grey in many tones, from pale to dark
- Black
- Isabelle or fawn
- Red or reddish shades

Some registries allow small white markings on the chest and feet, while others prefer a more solid color. Brindle and black and tan are usually not accepted by traditional standards.

Because the coat is so short, grooming is extremely simple. Most dogs only need:

- A soft rubber grooming mitt once or twice a week to remove loose hair
- A quick wipe with a damp cloth after walks if the dog gets dusty or muddy
- Occasional baths, usually every few weeks or when dirty, using a gentle dog shampoo

Although they shed, the amount of hair is very minimal compared to longer-coated breeds. Many people with mild dog allergies find Italian Greyhounds easier to live with, though they are not truly hypoallergenic.

Their thin skin and lack of insulating undercoat require extra care. Italian Greyhounds feel cold easily, especially in damp or windy weather. Owners should invest in well fitting sweaters and waterproof coats, as well as soft bedding. Pay attention to pressure points such as elbows and hips, since the thin coat gives very little padding. Providing thick, cushioned beds and soft blankets helps prevent skin irritation and calluses, and also keeps your Italian Greyhound comfortable throughout the year.


## Temperament & Personality

Living with an Italian Greyhound feels a bit like living with a small, affectionate shadow that follows you from room to room. This breed is highly people oriented. Most Italian Greyhounds choose a favorite person in the household and become very attached, often wanting to cuddle whenever they can. They thrive on closeness. Many will burrow under blankets, curl up on laps, or tuck themselves against your side on the sofa.

Despite their aristocratic look, Italian Greyhounds are often playful, silly, and puppyish well into adulthood. They enjoy little zoomies around the house or garden, tossing soft toys, and inventing their own games. Indoors they are usually calm and quiet after they have burned off their energy. They can be surprisingly content in smaller homes or apartments if their exercise and social needs are met.

With families, Italian Greyhounds often become devoted companions, but they are not the best match for rough handling. Their fine bones mean they can be injured easily if dropped, stepped on, or played with too vigorously. For this reason, homes with very young children require extra supervision. Older children who understand how to be gentle and calm are usually fine, and many Italian Greyhounds become loyal playmates for responsible kids.

Around strangers, Italian Greyhounds can be a little reserved at first. They are typically not aggressive, but they may appear shy or cautious in new situations. Careful socialization as puppies helps them grow into more confident adults. Introducing them to a variety of people, sounds, and environments in a positive way is important.

With other dogs, Italian Greyhounds generally get along well, especially with dogs of similar size and temperament. They often enjoy the company of another Italian Greyhound, and many breeders and owners keep them in pairs or small groups. Extra care is needed if they live with much larger, boisterous breeds. A big, playful dog can accidentally knock an Italian Greyhound over and cause injury.

Their prey drive varies. Some Italian Greyhounds will happily ignore cats and small pets they grow up with, while others may be tempted to chase. They are sighthounds at heart and are very quick to notice movement. It is wise to supervise interactions with small animals and to be aware of their chase instinct outdoors.

Common challenges with this breed include:

- Sensitivity to stress, harsh voices, or chaotic environments
- A tendency toward separation anxiety if left alone too much
- Stubbornness or nervousness with housetraining if routines are not consistent

Overall, the Italian Greyhound temperament is best described as affectionate, sensitive, and lively. They flourish in homes where people are gentle, patient, and happy to share their sofa with a warm little dog who will gladly claim the best blanket in the house.


## Training & Exercise

Although the Italian Greyhound is small, it is still a true sighthound with athletic ability and quick reflexes. Owners are often surprised by how fast and agile these dogs can be. Fortunately, Italian Greyhounds do not usually need endless exercise. What they appreciate most is a combination of short bursts of speed and relaxed time snuggling with their family.

In general, an adult Italian Greyhound will do well with:

- Two or three brisk walks per day, totaling around 45 to 60 minutes
- Regular opportunities to run freely in a securely fenced area
- Interactive play sessions with toys and their humans

They love to sprint and then quickly settle. A safe, fenced garden or enclosed dog field is ideal. Off leash walks in unfenced areas are risky because of their chase instinct and their speed. Once an Italian Greyhound spots a moving object such as a squirrel or bird, it may dash off before you can react, and recall can be unreliable unless carefully trained.

When it comes to training, Italian Greyhounds are clever but sensitive. They respond poorly to harsh corrections or loud scolding. Instead, use gentle, reward based methods with plenty of praise, tiny treats, or a favorite toy. Short, fun sessions are more effective than long, repetitive drills. Clicker training or positive marker training often works very well with this breed.

Key areas to focus on include:

- Housetraining, which can be challenging, especially in bad weather
- Recall, so that you can safely give more freedom in secure areas
- Confidence building, through simple tricks and games
- Calm settling, to help manage their sometimes excitable nature

Housetraining deserves special attention. Italian Greyhounds dislike cold, wet, or windy weather, which can make them reluctant to go outside. Owners often find success by:

- Adopting a strict schedule for meals and toilet breaks
- Going outside with the dog and rewarding them immediately after they finish
- Using coats and possibly boots in unpleasant weather
- Considering a covered toilet area or a sheltered corner of the garden

Mental exercise is just as important as physical activity. Italian Greyhounds usually enjoy puzzle feeders, scent games in the house or garden, and gentle trick training. Teaching easy cues like spin, paw, or weave between your legs can build confidence and strengthen your bond.

Italian Greyhounds can also take part in dog sports that suit their build, such as:

- Agility with low jumps and careful training
- Rally obedience
- Lure coursing or controlled straight racing in safe conditions

These activities should be introduced gradually and kept moderate to protect their fine limbs. With the right approach, training an Italian Greyhound can be a deeply rewarding experience. It is about building trust and cooperation rather than enforcing strict obedience. When treated kindly, they are willing, eager, and often very entertaining students.


## Health

The Italian Greyhound is generally a robust little dog, but like all breeds, it has some health tendencies that owners and breeders should be aware of. With responsible breeding, good nutrition, and proper care, many Italian Greyhounds live well into their early to mid teens, and it is not unusual to meet individuals reaching 14 or even 15 years.

One of the best known issues in this breed is the risk of leg fractures, especially in young dogs. Italian Greyhound puppies are full of energy and can forget how delicate they are. They may leap off furniture or race across slippery floors, which can result in broken limbs. Careful supervision during the first year, plus avoiding high furniture and very rough play, helps reduce this risk. Many owners use ramps or steps to allow their dog to reach beds or sofas more safely.

Other health concerns that may appear in the breed include:

- Dental disease, due to small jaws and crowded teeth
- Periodontal issues if teeth are not cleaned regularly
- Patellar luxation, where the kneecap can move out of position
- Legg Calve Perthes disease, a condition affecting the hip joint in young dogs
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and other eye problems in some lines
- Autoimmune or skin sensitivities in a minority of dogs

Italian Greyhounds are also sensitive to anesthesia because of their low body fat and particular physiology. It is very important to choose a vet who is experienced with sighthounds and uses modern, carefully calculated protocols for any surgery or dental procedures requiring sedation.

Responsible breeders often perform or use the results of the following health tests when planning litters:

- Patellar luxation examinations by a qualified veterinarian
- Eye examinations by a veterinary ophthalmologist for inherited eye conditions
- In some countries, DNA tests for specific hereditary issues if available

Buyers should feel comfortable asking breeders about the health tests they perform, the ages and health of the parent dogs, and any known problems in the lines.

Daily care also influences health greatly. Italian Greyhounds need:

- Regular tooth brushing, ideally several times per week, to prevent tartar build up
- Appropriate food portions to avoid obesity, which can strain their fine limbs
- Warmth, since they can easily become chilled, which weakens the immune system over time
- Protection from sunburn on thin coated areas in very sunny climates

Because of their sensitivity to cold, many Italian Greyhounds prefer shorter walks in winter and may need indoor games to stay active. Owners should watch for signs of discomfort, such as shivering or lifting paws off the ground.

Having a good relationship with a vet who understands small sighthounds is vital. Routine check ups once or twice a year, plus recommended vaccinations or titer testing, can catch potential issues early. With sensible care and informed breeding choices, most Italian Greyhounds enjoy long, happy lives as cherished companions.


## History & Origins

The Italian Greyhound has one of the oldest documented histories among toy breeds. Small, graceful sighthounds resembling the modern Italian Greyhound appear in art and artifacts from ancient Mediterranean civilizations. Evidence suggests that dogs of this type existed at least two thousand years ago in areas that are now Greece and Italy.

By the time of the Roman Empire, small greyhound like dogs were already valued as companions and status symbols. They featured in mosaics and paintings, often depicted lying beside their owners or trotting at their heels. These early dogs likely hunted small game such as rabbits or hares and also served as warm, affectionate lap dogs in cooler stone houses.

During the Renaissance and later in the courts of Europe, particularly in Italy, these little sighthounds became especially fashionable. Nobility and artists admired their refined lines and gentle temperament. Many portraits from the 16th to 18th centuries show aristocrats posing with a delicate, slender dog that we would instantly recognize as an Italian Greyhound today. The breed was embraced by royal families in various countries and was often associated with elegance, taste, and high social standing.

Over time, selective breeding emphasized the dog’s small size, graceful outline, and companionable nature. While they retained some ability to chase small game, their role shifted more firmly toward that of a pet and lap dog. The Italian Greyhound’s affectionate temperament made it ideal for this purpose.

Breed clubs and formal standards began to appear in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as kennel clubs formed across Europe. Dedicated breeders worked to preserve the breed’s distinctive shape, delicate bone structure, and athletic yet refined movement. World conflicts and changing fashions caused ups and downs in numbers, and in some periods the breed became rare. Enthusiasts in several countries played an important role in maintaining healthy bloodlines and preventing the Italian Greyhound from disappearing.

Today, the Italian Greyhound is recognized worldwide by major kennel clubs and is firmly categorized as a toy or companion breed, though it keeps the heart and instincts of a small sighthound. It is no longer used seriously for hunting, but its speed and love of chasing moving objects remain very evident. Modern Italian Greyhounds take part in:

- Companion events such as obedience, rally, and agility
- Lure coursing and fun racing days suitable for small sighthounds
- Therapy and emotional support work, where their gentle affection shines

Above all, the Italian Greyhound’s main role is that of a close, devoted family companion. Its long history as a treasured house dog can be felt in the way it loves to curl up beside its people and share daily life as a trusted little friend.


## Living with the Breed

Sharing your home with an Italian Greyhound is a very personal, almost intimate experience. This dog likes to be close, physically and emotionally. Before choosing the breed, it is worth considering what daily life will really look like and what kind of commitment is needed.

First, Italian Greyhounds do best in homes where someone is around much of the time. They are not suited to being left alone for long working days without company. If you work full time away from home, you might need solutions such as:

- A dog friendly workplace where the dog can join you
- A partner or family member who is home for part of the day
- A trusted dog sitter or daycare experienced with small, delicate breeds

Because of their slim build and sensitivity to temperature, Italian Greyhounds need a carefully thought out home environment. There should be:

- Soft, warm beds in various rooms so the dog can rest comfortably
- Draft free sleeping areas
- Non slip flooring or rugs to reduce the risk of falls on smooth surfaces
- Steps or ramps to help the dog reach favorite sofas or beds safely

Equipment that is especially useful for Italian Greyhounds includes:

- Well fitting, supportive harnesses instead of relying solely on a collar for walks
- Narrow, padded collars if collars are used, to avoid pressure on the delicate neck
- Warm sweaters and snug coats for cold or wet weather
- Lightweight, soft toys suitable for their small mouths and fine teeth
- Nail clippers or a grinder, since nails should be kept short to protect their slender toes

Financially, Italian Greyhounds are similar to many other toy breeds in routine costs but may require a bit more investment in quality clothing and veterinary care. Annual costs usually include:

- Food appropriate for a small but active dog
- Routine vaccinations or titers, flea and tick prevention, and deworming
- Regular dental care, sometimes including professional cleaning
- Pet insurance, which many owners choose to help with unexpected injuries or illnesses
- Replacement of clothing and bedding as items wear out

On top of these basics, training classes, dog sport activities, or occasional boarding should be factored into your budget if needed.

The breed’s emotional needs are just as important. Italian Greyhounds need gentle guidance, consistent routines, and plenty of affection. They thrive in calm households where shouting, chaos, or frequent heavy arguments are rare. Sudden loud noises or rough handling can make them anxious. If you are naturally patient and soft spoken, you may find this breed a very comfortable match.

Prospective owners should also be prepared for:

- Housetraining that may take longer than with some other breeds
- Managing their dislike of bad weather and cold ground
- Occasional bursts of silly, playful behavior that require a sense of humor
- A dog that is highly tuned to your moods and can be clingy at times

Travel with an Italian Greyhound is usually quite easy. Their small size allows them to fit comfortably in travel crates or car seats, and many adapt well to hotel stays or visiting friends, as long as their need for warmth, safety, and routine is respected. Providing a familiar blanket, bed, and a favorite toy can help them feel at home anywhere.

Living with an Italian Greyhound suits people who enjoy close companionship and are happy to make practical adjustments, such as keeping a warm home, protecting fragile limbs, and building a lifestyle where their dog is included rather than left behind. In return, owners usually describe the relationship as uniquely deep. The Italian Greyhound tends to look at its person with a soft, trusting gaze, curl tightly into the crook of an arm or under a blanket, and share daily life as a loyal, quietly devoted friend.

Italian Greyhound

The Italian Greyhound Club (UK)

Svenska Kennelklubben (Swedish Kennel Club)

The Italian Greyhound is a tiny, fine‑boned sighthound with a short, low‑shedding coat and elegant movement. Affectionate, sensitive and people‑oriented, it bonds closely, needs warmth, gentle training, moderate exercise with safe sprints, and careful handling to protect its delicate limbs.

Fila Brasileiro vs Italian Greyhound

Characteristics

Summary

Similar breeds