The Italian Greyhound, a svelte and elegant toy breed, is renowned for its graceful stature and delicate build. Typically, an adult Italian Greyhound weighs between 7 to 14 pounds (3 to 6 kilograms) and stands about 13 to 15 inches (33 to 38 centimeters) tall at the shoulder. These dimensions make them the smallest of the sighthounds, a group of breeds known for their keen vision and swift hunting capabilities. Despite their petite size, Italian Greyhounds possess a robust constitution and an agile frame, which contributes to their reputation as both a companionable lap dog and a capable competitor in various dog sports.
Male Italian Greyhound Weights & Heights by Age
The following chart contains the average weights and heights of male Italian Greyhound from newborn to 3 years of age. Please note these are only averages. Always consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns about your Italian Greyhound’s growth.
| Age (Months) | Weight (lbs) | Weight (kg) | Height (inches) | Height (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0 (Birth) | 0.5 – 1.0 | 0.2 – 0.5 | 5 – 7 | 12.7 – 17.8 |
| 1 | 2 – 3 | 0.9 – 1.4 | 7 – 9 | 17.8 – 22.9 |
| 2 | 4 – 6 | 1.8 – 2.7 | 9 – 11 | 22.9 – 27.9 |
| 3 | 6 – 8 | 2.7 – 3.6 | 11 – 13 | 27.9 – 33.0 |
| 4 | 7 – 9 | 3.2 – 4.1 | 12 – 14 | 30.5 – 35.6 |
| 6 | 8 – 10 | 3.6 – 4.5 | 13 – 15 | 33.0 – 38.1 |
| 12 | 10 – 14 | 4.5 – 6.4 | 13 – 15 | 33.0 – 38.1 |
| 24 (2 years) | 12 – 14 | 5.4 – 6.4 | 13 – 15 | 33.0 – 38.1 |
| 36 (3 years) | 12 – 14 | 5.4 – 6.4 | 13 – 15 | 33.0 – 38.1 |
Female Italian Greyhound Weights & Heights by Age
The following chart contains the average weights and heights of female Italian Greyhound from newborn to 3 years of age. Please note these are only averages. Always consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns about your Italian Greyhound’s growth.
| Age (Months) | Weight (lbs) | Weight (kg) | Height (inches) | Height (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0 (Birth) | 0.5 – 1.0 | 0.2 – 0.5 | 5 – 7 | 12.7 – 17.8 |
| 1 | 2 – 3 | 0.9 – 1.4 | 7 – 9 | 17.8 – 22.9 |
| 2 | 4 – 5.5 | 1.8 – 2.5 | 8 – 10 | 20.3 – 25.4 |
| 3 | 5 – 7 | 2.3 – 3.2 | 10 – 12 | 25.4 – 30.5 |
| 4 | 6 – 8 | 2.7 – 3.6 | 11 – 13 | 27.9 – 33.0 |
| 6 | 7 – 9 | 3.2 – 4.1 | 12 – 14 | 30.5 – 35.6 |
| 12 | 9 – 12 | 4.1 – 5.4 | 13 – 15 | 33.0 – 38.1 |
| 24 (2 years) | 10 – 13 | 4.5 – 5.9 | 13 – 15 | 33.0 – 38.1 |
| 36 (3 years) | 10 – 13 | 4.5 – 5.9 | 13 – 15 | 33.0 – 38.1 |
These tables are based on general guidelines and can vary greatly depending on individual dogs. Always consult with a veterinarian or professional breeder for more specific information about your pet’s growth and development.
FAQs about an Italian Greyhound Puppy’s Growth and Development
1. How fast do Italian Greyhound puppies grow?
Italian Greyhound puppies grow quickly in the first six months, reaching close to their adult height by this time. Their weight continues to increase and muscle develops until about 12 months. It’s important to monitor their diet to ensure they are receiving adequate nutrition during this rapid growth phase.
2. What is the ideal weight for a 3-month-old Italian Greyhound puppy?
At 3 months, Italian Greyhound puppies typically weigh between 6 to 8 pounds (2.7 to 3.6 kg). It’s crucial to keep their weight within a healthy range to avoid stress on their developing bones and joints.
3. How tall should a 6-month-old Italian Greyhound be?
By 6 months, an Italian Greyhound should be roughly between 13 to 15 inches (33 to 38 cm) tall. They are usually close to their full height at this age, though they will continue to fill out in muscle and slight bone density.
4. Can Italian Greyhounds experience growth spurts?
Yes, Italian Greyhounds can experience growth spurts, particularly in the first four months. During these periods, they may rapidly gain height and weight, and their appetite can increase significantly.
5. What are the signs my Italian Greyhound is growing properly?
Signs of proper growth include steady weight gain, proportional increase in height, and overall good health. Your puppy should be active and playful, with a healthy coat and clear eyes.
6. How can I tell if my Italian Greyhound puppy is underweight?
If you can see prominent ribs, hip bones, and spine, your Italian Greyhound might be underweight. A lack of energy and a dull coat can also indicate that your puppy isn’t getting enough nutrition.
7. What should I do if my puppy isn’t gaining weight?
If your Italian Greyhound isn’t gaining weight, consult your veterinarian to rule out any underlying health issues. They may recommend adjusting your puppy’s diet or checking for parasites or other medical conditions.
8. Is there a risk of obesity with Italian Greyhounds?
Italian Greyhounds are generally not prone to obesity due to their active nature; however, overfeeding and lack of exercise can lead to weight gain. Maintain a balanced diet and regular exercise routine to keep your dog in shape.
9. How much should I feed my growing Italian Greyhound puppy?
The amount of food depends on the puppy’s age, weight, and activity level. Typically, puppies need more calories per pound of body weight than adult dogs. Refer to the feeding guidelines on your puppy food packaging and consult your vet.
10. What type of food is best for Italian Greyhound puppies?
High-quality puppy food formulated for small breeds is recommended for Italian Greyhound puppies. These foods are designed to support rapid growth and development with appropriate levels of protein, fat, and essential nutrients.
11. How often should I feed my Italian Greyhound puppy?
Feed your Italian Greyhound puppy three to four times a day until they are six months old. After six months, you can reduce feeding to twice daily as their growth rate slows down.
12. At what age is an Italian Greyhound fully grown?
Italian Greyhounds usually reach their full height by 12 months old, but they may continue to gain weight and muscle until they are about 18 months old. Some may not reach their complete physical maturity until two years of age.
13. Can I give my Italian Greyhound supplements for better growth?
It’s best to consult with your veterinarian before giving any supplements. In most cases, a balanced diet will provide all the necessary nutrients for healthy growth without the need for supplements.
14. What are common growth-related issues in Italian Greyhounds?
Italian Greyhounds can sometimes experience patellar luxation or hip dysplasia, although these are less common than in larger breeds. Ensuring they grow at a moderate rate and do not become overweight can help prevent these issues.
15. How do growth rates vary between male and female Italian Greyhounds?
Generally, male Italian Greyhounds will be slightly larger and heavier than females throughout the growth period. However, the overall growth rate and final size are not dramatically different between genders.
16. What are the height and weight limits for a full-grown Italian Greyhound?
A full-grown male Italian Greyhound typically stands about 13 to 15 inches tall and weighs 10 to 14 pounds. Females are usually at the lower end of this range in both height and weight.
17. How do I monitor my Italian Greyhound’s growth over time?
Keep a regular log of your puppy’s weight and height, and take them for consistent veterinary checkups. Use a growth chart or consult with your vet to see if your puppy is on track.
18. Why is my Italian Greyhound puppy sleeping so much?
It’s normal for puppies, including Italian Greyhounds, to sleep a lot—up to 18 hours a day! Sleep is crucial for their development and helps them process all the new experiences they are encountering.
19. What if my Italian Greyhound puppy seems too tall or too short for his age?
Some variation is normal, but if you’re concerned about your puppy’s height, consult your vet. They can assess whether your puppy’s growth is within a healthy range and advise you accordingly.
20. Is it normal for my puppy’s weight to fluctuate?
Some fluctuation is normal due to changes in diet, exercise, and health. However, sudden weight loss or gain should be discussed with your veterinarian to ensure it’s not indicative of a health problem.
Toledo, United States.
