Iggys 101
Toy groupDon't let their size fool you: The Italian Greyhound, or Iggy, is built like a coursing hound and can run like one, too. Developed as the lap dogs of Italian aristocrats, they love snuggling as much as they love running. As much as they love kids, Iggys are delicate dogs, so teaching young children to be very gentle can help keep them safe. As with lean-bodied dogs, the Italian Greyhound tends to get cold easily and may spend most of the year in a sweater, happily.
What we love about Iggys
The grace and sweetness of a Greyhound in a portable package
- Energy level
- Moderate (50%)
- Bark level
- Talkative
- Height
- 13 to 15 inches
- Lifespan
- 14 to 15 years
- Weight
- 7 to 15 lbs
The Italian Greyhound stands 13 to 15 inches tall and weighs 7 to 15 lbs. Italian Greyhounds have a lifespan of 14 to 15 years. They are known for a moderate (50%) energy level and a talkative bark.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How big do Italian Greyhounds get?
- Italian Greyhounds stand 13 to 15 inches tall and typically weigh between 7 and 15 pounds.
- How long do Italian Greyhounds live?
- The average lifespan of a Italian Greyhound is 14 to 15 years.
- Are Italian Greyhounds good for first-time dog owners?
- Italian Greyhounds have moderate energy levels and can be suitable for first-time owners who are committed to regular exercise and training.
- Do Italian Greyhounds bark a lot?
- Italian Greyhounds are considered talkative — they bark more than average but are not excessively vocal.
My pet’s health plannerSM
This Italian Greyhound health planner outlines the most common medical conditions at each life stage — from puppy through senior — along with their relative risk levels. Understanding these risks can help owners plan preventive care and choose the right pet insurance coverage.

Nationwide can help you save on your Italian Greyhound's health care no matter what lifestage they’re in.
- Puppy (0 to 6 months)
- Gastroenteritis: Very High Risk, Dental disease: Moderate Risk, Trauma: Moderate Risk
- Young Adult (7 months to 5 years)
- Hemorrhagic gastroenteritis: Moderate Risk, Seizures: Moderate Risk, Toxicity: Above Average Risk
- Mature Adult (6 years to 9 years)
- Seizures: High Risk, Hemorrhagic gastroenteritis: High Risk, Dental disease: Moderate Risk
- Senior (10+ years)
- Valvular heart disease: Very High Risk, Liver and gallbladder cancer: Very High Risk, Seizures: Very High Risk

Italian Greyhounds can be seen in the paintings of the Italian Renaissance masters, owing to their popularity among the wealthy.
Italian Greyhound coat care and colors
Coat care couldn't be easier for Iggys. They simply require regular brushing to remove loose fur and nail trims and baths as needed.
How often should I groom my Italian Greyhound?
How often should I groom my Italian Greyhound?
Should I bathe my Italian Greyhound?
Should I bathe my Italian Greyhound?
Should I brush my Italian Greyhound?
Should I brush my Italian Greyhound?
Iggy exercise & training
Iggy fun facts
Top girl names for Iggys
of Iggys are female
of Iggys are male
Top boy names for Iggys
Nationwide loves Italian Greyhounds of every name, from Aaron to Zog the Destroyer
| Gender | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Male | 0% |
| Female | 100% |
Among Italian Greyhounds insured by Nationwide, 0% are male and 100% are female.
Italian Greyhound statistics: Gender ratio is 0% male and 100% female.
Other breeds like Iggys
Best. Italian Greyhound insurance. Ever.SM
- Pet insurance premiums starting at $25/mo.
- Visit any licensed veterinarian, anywhere
- Cancel at any time, risk-free
