WALKING THE ITALIAN GREYHOUND
How is walking an Italian Greyhound (without being flown like a kite)
Walking the Italian Greyhound seems like a “simple operation: leash, harness, let’s go out and off we go. Yeah, right. Then he sees a leaf moving… a supermarket bag rolling… a suspicious draft… and poof! Your elegant little greyhound is already at 40 km/h, and you’re with him, probably balanced on one leg with the” other seeking emotional support from the sidewalk.
If you’ve chosen an Italian Greyhound as your life companion, congratulations: you have a very sweet, sophisticated, and loving dog. But walking the Italian Greyhound requires some special attention. Nothing complicated, but if you want to avoid your walk turning into a rally race, keep reading.
1. The Short Leash for the Italian Greyhound is your Lifeline
It’s not a matter of aesthetics. The short leash (maximum 120 cm) is essential for immediate control when you want walkingthe Italian Greyhound , especially in moments of “predatory emergency”. Because yes, even though he weighs only 5 kg and is all thin bones and sweet looks… inside he has the soul of a greyhound, that is, a sight hound.
If he sees something moving (a bike, a pigeon, a toilet paper roll carried by the wind), his instinct says: “CHASE!”
And he… does it.
With the short leash, you can anticipate the movement, correct the trajectory, and, above all, prevent him from turning into a four-legged projectile.
2. Walking the Italian Greyhound: Sudden Sprints!
He won’t give you a warning. No looks, no forward-pointing muzzle, no “3, 2, 1… go!” No.
The IGY sees something – maybe even microscopic – and takes off. Lightning fast.
The problem? His legs, as thin as cocktail sticks, are not made to withstand certain impacts.
An out-of-control jump, a leash that’s too long, a run near the road… and the worst can happen. There have been cases where greyhounds ended up under cars because they suddenly took off “crossing the road after a” shadow.
Golden rule: never walk the Italian Greyhound off-leash in unfenced areas. Never. Not even if “he’s always been good”.
3. A Coat? Absolutely, It’s Definitely Needed.
The Italian Greyhound on a walk suffers from cold. It’s not a myth from humans who humanize. It’s genetics, it’s physiology, it’s thermodynamics.
His structure is that of a dancer: little body fat, long muscles, thin skin, zero undercoat. The result? After 10 minutes outside in winter, he becomes a popsicle with ears.
So yes, the coat is mandatory when it’s cold. And not just for the canine fashion week. It’s really to protect him. Rain also bothers him a lot, so if it’s wet outside, consider carefully if the walk can wait or if you should use a waterproof jacket.
4. At Home He’s a Prince… But He Needs to Move!
“My little greyhound stays on the couch all day, he’s lazy.”
False. He’s elegant, conserving energy, enjoying the warmth of the blanket. But his body needs exercise.
Walking the Italian Greyhound regularly helps tone his long, lean muscles. He doesn’t need to become an athlete, but he must keep his joints active, ligaments flexible, and mind stimulated.
A 30-40 minute walk, perhaps with short stretches of jogging or controlled play, is ideal. And if you can, offer him an occasional run in a fenced area. You’ll see him transform into a lightning bolt, as happy as a kid at carnival.
5. Don’t Forget: He’s Sensitive… And Extremely Intelligent
The Italian Greyhound is not a dog to be dragged down the street. He doesn’t respond to yanks, shouts, or authoritarian commands. He’s sensitive, empathetic, and knows perfectly well how to read your mood.
When walking the Italian Greyhound , try a calm, reassuring, but firm tone. Avoid overly chaotic situations, loud noises, or unpredictable routes. He likes to walk with you, not behind or in front. And if you treat him with respect, he’ll do everything to please you – except for a suspicious rolling leaf. On that… we can’t guarantee.
Conclusion: Walking the Italian Greyhound is a little art
Walking the Italian Greyhound is not simply “taking a stroll with the dog”. It’s a mix of readiness, delicacy, and… Zen spirit. You need to prevent predatory dashes, choose suitable routes, dress it stylishly, and protect it from the cold.
But if you do it well, it will be one of the most beautiful experiences of your day. Because he doesn’t follow you: he accompanies you. With eyes full of love, light paws, and a heart as big as can be.
