FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can you tell me more about the coat colors?
Italian Greyhound coat variations can be confusing due to the vast variety of colors. For more detailed information please see the following link: http://homepage.usask.ca/~schmutz/IGcolor.html
What are the breed standards for the Italian Greyhound and what does it mean?
AKC breed standards are set by the American Kennel Club. Standards on conformation, heights, weight, coat color, etc. is set. These standards are used when judging the Italian Greyhound in show events. For more information on standards specific to this breed go to http://www.akc.org/breeds/italian_greyhound/
Are Italian Greyhounds difficult to housebreak?
If you read online you will see a number of comments about the IG being difficult to housebreak or suggestions that they be trained to use a kitty litter box. I keep in touch with prior owners of my puppies and, if they follow the advice I give, they have had great success with house training the IG. Individuals with prior experience housetraining a puppy have the best success.
Do you recommend crate training?
I strongly recommend crate training and believe the puppy should be crated whenever he/she cannot actively be watched.
Who is the best candidate for IG ownership?
I prescreen potential puppy owners with the hope of finding forever homes. The IG is not the best breed for everyone. The best candidate has prior experience with raising a dog from puppyhood (preferably a small breed puppy), has a fenced yard, has experience training a dog or the willingness to go to obedience training and, if there is a partner in the home, has someone that will maintain the same training expectations.
Are Italian Greyhounds good with other animals or children?
These are very social dogs. They get along with cats, dogs and other people. It is important to socialize your puppy in a variety of different setting so he/she develops into a confident/outgoing adult.
What is Limited Registration vs Full Registration?
When the AKC issues litter registration paperwork the litter owner has the option of selecting Limited. The American Kennel Club will issue the new owner AKC papers which look and serve as any other AKC certificate. The only difference is the AKC has recorded that the dog cannot be shown in an AKC event (show ring) and has noted that breeding is prohibited. Puppies with Limited status are sold as PET ONLY and are not to be bred or shown. Proof of procedure must be submittted prior to the puppy reaching 6 months of age.