How To

How to Groom an Italian Greyhound

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By eHow Contributing Writer
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With a history extending back over 2,000 years, Italian greyhounds are members of the toy group. They are the miniature version of the large, full-sized greyhounds. Originating in Greece and Turkey, Italian greyhounds get their name from their popularity as lapdogs during the Italian Renaissance. While short-haired Italian greyhounds require less coat maintenance, Italian greyhounds benefit greatly from regular grooming care. Read on to learn more.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Rub down the coat. Use a soft cloth, such as satin or soft chamois, to keep the coat shiny and to remove loose hair. Trim whiskers if necessary.

  2. Step 2

    Bathe Italian greyhounds only when necessary. Dry thoroughly after a bath using cloth, not a blow dryer. Place small cotton balls inside the ears to avoid water entering the dog's ear canal.

  3. Step 3

    Protect the skin. Use sweaters and foot pads for cold weather as Italian greyhounds have little body fat. Ask a vet about using canine skin lotions in dry climates; do not use human skin creams as human skin has different oil content.

  4. Step 4

    Clean the teeth. Italian greyhounds have small, pointed mouths, making Italian greyhounds prone to dental disease. Regular brushing prevents tartar build-up and gum disease. Have a vet perform regular dental cleanings to prevent tooth loss.

  5. Step 5

    Clip their nails least twice a month. Use a canine nail clipper or have a veterinarian do this. Italian greyhounds have usually had their dewclaws removed; if a remnant of a dewclaw remains, clip it carefully. When clipping canine toenails, be careful not to clip the cuticle. While not a serious injury, it is painful for the Italian greyhound and may bleed.

  6. Step 6

    Wipe the ears. Use a cotton swab carefully to remove wax build-up from within the ears. Italian greyhound ears have a drop; this inhibits air circulation and can cause wax build-up and infection.

Tips & Warnings
  • A natural bristle brush also helps keep the coat shiny. Thinning shears remove stray hairs from ears and muzzle if desired.
  • A final coat conditioner after a bath improves the coat appearance. A gentle skin cream helps minimize elbow calluses on Italian greyhound.

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