Outline:
– Temperament and origins of Italian Greyhound puppies
– Daily care, housing, and exercise routines
– Training and socialization tailored to a sensitive sighthound
– Health, growth milestones, and preventive veterinary care
– Conclusion that ties together responsible ownership and long-term planning

Italian Greyhound Temperament and Origins: What to Expect in Puppyhood

Italian Greyhound puppies look like living brushstrokes—fine-boned, graceful, and quick as a falling leaf. They belong to the sighthound family, developed to hunt by sight and speed, which helps explain their signature zoomies and love of open spaces. Historically tied to Mediterranean courts and admired for their elegance, they carry a dual nature: at home, they are gentle, cuddly companions; outdoors, they can flick into sprint mode with astonishing acceleration. This contrast shapes their puppyhood; many guardians describe them as sensitive comedians who crave both reassurance and room to play.

Temperament-wise, puppies tend to be affectionate, people-oriented, and somewhat cautious in unfamiliar situations. Compared with larger sighthounds, they are more fragile and often more skeptical of loud environments, yet they bond intensely with their families. Compared with compact toy breeds, they usually show a stronger prey drive and a deeper need to sprint and sniff. Expect a dog that wants to be wherever you are, sometimes shadowing you from room to room like a slim silhouette. That closeness can feel wonderful, but it also means you must build independence skills early to prevent clingy behaviors from becoming anxiety.

Size and growth offer helpful context. Most adults land around 13–15 inches at the shoulder and typically weigh between roughly 7–14 pounds, with growth spurts during the first year. Thin skin and low body fat make them sensitive to cold and rough surfaces; puppies may shiver in cool rooms and balk at damp grass. Their bones are delicate during adolescence, so leaping from furniture or playing on slippery floors is risky. In short, they are athletic yet fragile, affectionate yet shy, and devoted yet independent-minded—a study in contrasts that rewards a thoughtful, calm household.

Traits you are likely to notice early on include:
– Quick but short-lived play bursts punctuated by long naps
– A strong desire to be close to their person, especially during downtime
– Sensitivity to tone of voice and body language
– Curiosity outdoors coupled with caution in busy spaces
– A penchant for comfort, soft bedding, and warm corners

Daily Care, Housing, and Exercise: Building a Puppy Routine

Think of daily care as a rhythm that alternates activity and rest. Italian Greyhound puppies benefit from multiple short play sessions rather than marathon outings. Frequent, gentle exercise supports coordination without stressing growing joints. A common day might include a brisk sniff-walk, a short indoor training game, a controlled sprint in a fenced area, and several restful naps. Because these pups are sensitive to temperature, plan walks around weather: chilly mornings may require a well-fitted canine sweater, and hot afternoons call for shade and cool water. Hardwood or tile floors can be slippery, so scatter rugs add traction and reduce fall risks.

Feeding and hydration should match small-breed puppy needs. Many puppies do well on three to four small meals per day to stabilize energy and support growth. Calorie needs vary by weight and activity, but a typical range for a small, active puppy might hover around 200–400 calories daily, adjusting with age, body condition, and veterinary advice. Consistent feeding times and measured portions help prevent both underfeeding and excess weight gain, which can stress joints. Daily dental care starts early—use a puppy-appropriate brush and toothpaste—and handle paws, ears, and mouth regularly to normalize grooming.

House training can be more nuanced than with sturdier dogs, partly due to tiny bladders and weather aversion. Combine outdoor breaks with an indoor backup like a grass pad if conditions are harsh. Keep a predictable schedule: a quick trip outside after waking, after meals, after play, and before bed. Reward immediately after elimination to build the right association. Crate training supports rest, safety, and accident prevention, provided the crate is warm, draft-free, and introduced gradually. For comfort, add a soft blanket and a safe chew, and cover part of the crate to create a cozy den.

Exercise and environmental management tips:
– Use lightweight, well-fitted gear to avoid pressure on the neck
– Leash walks plus one safe sprint session meet both mind and muscle
– Replace slippery surfaces with runners or yoga mats where possible
– Offer age-appropriate chews to satisfy oral needs and protect furniture
– Rotate toys to keep play fresh without overwhelming your pup

Training and Socialization: Gentle Methods for a Sensitive Sighthound

Italian Greyhound puppies thrive on coaching that feels like a conversation, not a contest. Positive reinforcement—marking the instant a behavior occurs and following with a small treat or play—works especially well for this sensitive breed. Clear, soft communication builds trust and encourages problem-solving. Start with short sessions (one to three minutes) a few times a day. Teach a confident sit, a relaxed down, and a hand target to guide movement without pushing or pulling. A reliable recall begins indoors with minimal distractions, then moves to a long-line in a quiet, fenced space. Keep rewards varied and surprising so your puppy sees listening as a great game.

Socialization is a time-sensitive investment. Aim to introduce the puppy to a variety of textures, sights, and sounds during the key window commonly cited as approximately 8–16 weeks, always pairing new experiences with gentle praise and treats. Choose quiet encounters with calm, vaccinated dogs of compatible size, and curate human greetings to avoid crowding. Because sighthounds can be noise-sensitive, desensitize gradually to household sounds—doorbells, vacuum hum, distant traffic—at low volumes, raising intensity only when your puppy stays relaxed. Instead of busy sidewalks at rush hour, try a quiet park path where you can control distance from cyclists or skateboards.

House training and independence skills deserve special attention. Practice brief, predictable absences from day one: step out for a minute, return calmly, and gradually lengthen the time. Pair departures with a chew that appears only when you leave, creating a positive association. For weather-averse pups, use a sheltered potty area or a covered porch and focus on consistent cues. To prevent furniture-leaping, teach a cue for “up” and “off,” and provide stable steps to favorite resting spots. Avoid rough play with larger dogs during puppyhood; focus on matched playmates and calm, structured sessions.

Core training goals to prioritize:
– A cheerful recall on a long line for safety during exploration
– Loose-leash walking with attention games to reduce pulling
– A settle cue for restaurants, offices, or coffee-shop patios
– Cooperative care skills such as chin rest, nail handling, and tooth brushing
– A place cue that sends the puppy to a bed or mat for downtime

Health, Growth, and Preventive Care: From Fragile Start to Fit Adult

Good health starts with smart prevention. Schedule timely puppy wellness visits to establish vaccinations, parasite control, and growth monitoring. Many protocols include a series of core vaccines during the first months, followed by boosters as recommended by your veterinarian and adjusted based on local disease risk. Because Italian Greyhound puppies have low body fat and delicate limbs, discuss anesthesia plans in advance for any future procedures, and ensure handling is gentle during exams and nail trims. Keep written records of weight, body condition, and any medications, so trends are easy to spot early.

Common health considerations for this breed include dental disease, patellar luxation, and orthopedic injuries from jumping or rough landings. Some lines may be predisposed to hip or leg issues, and rapidly growing puppies can be clumsy, increasing fall risk. Visual health should also be watched; regular checks help catch problems sooner. Skin can be thin and sensitive, making abrasions more likely on rough surfaces. Protective clothing in cold weather is not fashion, it is functional warmth. Indoors, elevate food and water bowls to a comfortable height if your puppy stretches awkwardly, and ensure bedding is plush enough to cushion bony points.

Growth milestones often arrive quickly. Early weeks feature rapid weight gain and the learning of bite inhibition. By a few months, your puppy may look like a lanky teenager—long legs, narrow chest, and bursts of awkward speed. Maintain a lean physique; extra weight strains joints and can increase injury risk. Exercise is critical, but think quality over quantity: safe sprints, controlled play, and leash walks that emphasize sniffing and calm curiosity. Teeth need daily care; consider a routine of brushing after the last meal, with gentle praise to make it an easy habit.

Preventive routine highlights:
– Regular wellness exams to track growth and tailor vaccine schedules
– Parasite prevention calibrated to your climate and lifestyle
– Environmental safety: ramps or steps, grippy rugs, and supervised play
– Daily dental hygiene using dog-safe products
– Early conversations about spay/neuter timing based on individual development

Conclusion: Responsible Adoption and Lifelong Stewardship

Bringing home an Italian Greyhound puppy is a commitment to both gentleness and structure. These dogs flourish when their people move at two tempos: unrushed patience for training and timely bursts of play that honor the sighthound spirit. Before adoption, consider sources carefully. Ethical rescues and careful, small-scale breeders put health, temperament, and transparency first. Expect health clearances relevant to the breed, honest discussion of temperament, and a willingness to answer questions about socialization and early handling. Be ready to walk away from any situation that feels rushed, secretive, or dismissive of your concerns.

Budgeting makes the bond sustainable. First-year costs may include adoption or placement fees, vaccinations and exams, parasite prevention, basic gear, training classes, and a cushion for urgent care. Monthly expenses vary by region, but planning for food, ongoing veterinary needs, grooming supplies, and education prevents surprises. Pet insurance or a dedicated savings fund can soften the financial shock of emergencies. Time is a resource too: daily walks, brief training sessions, and routine grooming add up, and they shape a calm, cooperative adult.

Ask yourself practical questions: Can you provide soft, non-slip flooring and safe access to sofas or beds? Will you commit to positive training and gentle socialization during the early window? Does your schedule allow for multiple potty breaks and companionship throughout the day? If the answer is yes, you will likely find that an Italian Greyhound’s affectionate nature and quirky charm enrich daily life in countless small ways—like the hush of a warm puppy asleep in your lap after a perfectly timed sprint in the yard.

Key takeaways for prospective guardians:
– Choose ethical adoption pathways with clear health and temperament information
– Set up a warm, low-slip home with safe rest and play zones
– Invest in positive, bite-sized training and steady socialization
– Prioritize preventive care and daily dental hygiene
– Budget time and funds for a long, healthy partnership