Italian Greyhound Dog Breed

Although the Italian Greyhound has been in existence for centuries, the exact origin of this beautiful breed of dog is completely unknown. There is evidence of artwork that dates back more than 2000 years ago, it depicts these dogs in areas such as the Mediterranean, Greece and Turkey.

Italian Greyhounds were known as “Miniature Greyhounds” and were found in abundance throughout areas of southern Europe. Italian courtiers adored them.

Sometime during the 17th century, this dog breed arrived in England and rose in popularity with the nobility. They became just as popular in England as they had been in their homeland of Italy.

In the year of 1820 there were only two specific dog breeds that were mentioned in a book about dogs. The Italian Greyhound was one of them. This breed continued to attract more and more popularity, mostly with the wealthy, but reached its peak sometime during the leadership reign of Queen Victoria.

After this time period, the numbers of Italian Greyhounds started to decline rapidly. In fact, after the end of World War II, these dogs had all but disappeared. The reason for this is unknown but it is theorized that the decline was the result of poor breeding quality over many generations. Even though their numbers had declined on the verge of extinction, quite a few Italian Greyhounds made their way to America sometime during the late 1800s and the breed was revived.

Personality

The Italian Greyhound is a moderately small dog that loves to run at fast speeds and chase anything that will run from it. These dogs are extremely gentle and a bit on the sensitive side. Italian Greyhounds are reserved, timid and make a lovable family pet, especially around children.

Taking Care Of Your Italian Greyhound

This is one breed of dog that is best suited to live with an active family. In other words, if you prefer sitting on your couch all day to spending time with your dog, the Italian Greyhound would not be the ideal choice. They need an active lifestyle, with plenty of running outside.

Italian Greyhounds absolutely hate cold weather, but can stand higher-than-normal temperatures, due to its short coat. Grooming is minimal, with only the occasional brushing needed in order to remove dead hair.

Health Information

The average lifespan of the Italian Greyhound can be up to 17 years when healthy, with 13 to 14 years being the average. The only major health concern that they have is periodontal disease. Minor issues include PRA, leg fractures (from running), patellar luxation and epilepsy.

Pit Bull Dog Breed (American Staffordshire Terrier)

Dog enthusiasts consider the American Staffordshire Terrier, otherwise known as the Pit Bull, to have come from the exact same lines as the Staffordshire Terrier. The original crossing of breeds sprung from the mix of an older type of Bulldog with some other older types of Terrier. The result was a dog, which is currently known as the Bull Terrier.

These dogs became popular for individuals who enjoyed the practice of dog fighting. Dog fighting was an extremely popular sport, despite the fact that it was declared illegal. The United States started to see many Staffordshire Terriers around the late 1800s when they were brought over for dog fighting entertainment. It was at this time that they became known as the American Bull Terrier.

Americans then wanted to create a larger, more aggressive version of this dog, so the mix of the English version and the American version were combined, creating a new breed of dog that was recognized by the AKC in 1936. The official breed name was American Staffordshire Terrier (Pit Bull).

The American Staffordshire Terrier has a very aggressive temperament when feeling defensive, especially in response to protecting its family. Needless to say, these pets make an excellent watchdog and will protect its owners and property at all costs.

Pit Bull dogs are generally very friendly towards strangers so long as the owners are present. However, they can be a bit tenacious and stubborn when mixed with other dogs.

Taking Care Of Your Pit Bull

American Staffordshire Terrier dogs will need plenty of exercise on a daily basis. Long walks and vigorous running games are perfect examples. Although this dog can live outdoors if necessary, it is much more comfortable when staying inside the house with its family. Taking care of the coat is fairly easy for upkeep; just a few quick strokes of the brush on a weekly basis are all that is necessary.

Health Information

The American Staffordshire Terrier has an average lifespan of 12 to 14 years. Major health concerns include CHD, PRA and cerebellar ataxia. Minor issues are elbow dysplasia, hypothyroidism and heart disease.

You might occasionally see allergies and cruciate ligament rupture. Veterinarians suggest that you have your American Staffordshire Terrier checked for hip and elbow problems, eye issues, thyroid and cardiac.