How much exercise does an Italian Greyhound need?
Daily exercise minutes, the activities an Italian Greyhound enjoys and signs of too much or too little.
An adult IG needs about 45 to 60 minutes of activity a day, including at least a few chances to sprint in a securely fenced area. They run in short, explosive bursts and then want to lie down. Lure coursing, where dogs chase a mechanical lure across a field, is a perfect outlet and many clubs hold beginner days.
Recall is unreliable for most sighthounds, so keep your IG on lead or a long line near roads or open land. Check fences carefully: a dog this small can slip through gaps of 10 cm (4 in). In cold, wet or windy weather a fleece or waterproof coat is not a fashion choice, it keeps the dog comfortable. Signs of too little exercise include tearing around the house and chewing; signs of cold include shivering and a hunched posture.
Italian Greyhound exercise in numbers
Activity ranges are editorial planning estimates. The five-minutes-per-month puppy rule lacks scientific evidence. Adapt activity to the individual and seek advice for pain or exercise difficulty. PDSA puppy exercise guidance.
Editorial activity estimate
60 to 90 min
Puppy activity
Individual plan
adapt to age, health and development
Senior activity
Individual plan
adapt to comfort and ability
Size
toy
3 to 5 kg
Energy level
Playfulness
Handles heat
Handles cold