Italian Cavalier Greyhound
The Italian Cavalier Greyhound is a charming and friendly small breed, created by crossing the Italian Greyhound with the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. This dog adapts easily to different living environments, making it a fantastic option for novice dog owners. They require only moderate grooming and are generally straightforward to train due to their gentle disposition and eagerness to please. Although primarily seen as companion animals rather than working or guard dogs, they have a sharp awareness that allows them to serve as effective watchdogs. Many owners characterize the Italian Cavalier Greyhound as a clever little friend, overflowing with love and affection.
Breed Origin
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is thought to have originated from the crossbreeding of the Blenheim Red and White King Charles Spaniel with the now-extinct Toy Trawler Spaniel. Initially, this breed was prized for its abilities as a retriever, as well as for tracking and flushing game. During the reign of King Charles II, the Cavalier gained popularity as a symbol of aristocracy, becoming a beloved companion among the nobility and royalty across Europe. Its roots can be traced back to 17th-century England, although formal breed standards were not established until much later. The American Kennel Club officially recognized the breed in 1995. Similarly, the Italian Greyhound boasts a rich history that likely spans over 2000 years. Archaeological discoveries of small Greyhound skeletons in Greece and Turkey indicate its ancient heritage. Like the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, the Italian Greyhound was a favored pet among royalty; for instance, Frederick the Great of Prussia was buried alongside his beloved dogs. This breed made its way to North America in the 1800s and was included in the American Kennel Club's registry in 1886.
Breed Appearance
The Italian Cavalier Greyhound is a small and elegant breed, distinguished by its athletic build. It features a long, flat skull and a slender muzzle that narrows to a delicate nose. Its captivating dark eyes are usually a deep chocolate brown. These delightful dogs can have either small, semi-floppy ears shaped like inverted triangles or longer, wider ears that are richly feathered. Their tails vary in appearance; they may be slim yet strong, reflecting their Italian Greyhound heritage, or longer and feathery, similar to those of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. The coat is generally silky and shiny, of medium length, with only slight feathering around the muzzle, ears, tail, belly, and foot pads.
Care Routine
Hybrid dogs experience seasonal shedding and require brushing several times a week to remove loose fur and dirt that can accumulate in their coats. Because of their sensitive skin, it’s essential to use a slicker or pin brush to gently eliminate loose hair and prevent tangles. Additionally, it’s important to clean your hybrid's eyes daily to prevent tear staining, which they are susceptible to. Given their floppy ears, checking them weekly is recommended to keep them clean and free of debris, as moisture and dirt can lead to infections. Like all dogs, regular dental care is vital to avoid dental problems, and nail trimming should occur every 6 to 12 weeks unless they naturally wear down through activity.
Behavior & Temperament
The Italian Cavalier Greyhound is celebrated for its loving and sociable demeanor, exhibiting a serene and gentle disposition towards both other animals and strangers. These dogs have a strong desire to please, which facilitates their training, as they tend to learn new commands swiftly. Their joyful nature makes them an ideal choice for novice pet owners. They are gentle, playful, and patient with children; however, like all pets, early socialization is vital for fostering positive behavior. Although they can be somewhat timid and sensitive, they do not thrive under harsh treatment, so a compassionate and considerate approach from their owners is crucial for their happiness within the household. Furthermore, they may experience separation anxiety, which can make them less suitable for individuals with hectic schedules.
Play & Exercise
This spirited and playful little dog can become quite a challenge if left alone for extended periods. This hybrid breed thrives on engaging in fun activities, such as fetching balls or indulging in typical puppy mischief, like ripping apart toys. With a moderate level of energy, these dogs are usually satisfied with daily playtime with their owners, trips to the dog park, and brisk short walks. The Italian Cavalier Greyhound is adaptable to different living situations, whether in urban, rural, or suburban settings, though it may have difficulty in hot weather. Some variations of this breed may inherit the shorter muzzle of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, which can result in breathing issues during exercise in high temperatures.
Things to Know
Cups Per Day
1.0 Cups
Daily Activity
60 Minutes
Average Lifespan
14 Years
Origin
2000's
Type
Crossbreeds
Size
Small
Origin Country
Unknown
Brush Frequency
Weekly
Coat Texture
Straight
Register
Your kids have been begging for a pet forever, and you've recently decided that it's time for your family to get a new addition -- a dog! While everyone is excited for the new arrival, you're wondering if you need to have a dog license. How much does it cost? Is it required? Where do you get one?
Member Clubs
PETINNATE
Other
Height & Weight
Weight
13 lbs (6 kg)Male: 14 lbs (6 kg) , Female: 12 lbs (5 kg)
Height
13 inches (33 sm)Male: 14 inches (36 sm) , Female: 13 inches (33 sm)
Eye Colors
Brown
Nose Colors
Black
Coat Colors
Red
Black
White
Gray
Brindle
Sable
Blue
Cream
