The Italian Greyhound is a small breed of dog that is a member of the sighthound typing. The breed is commonly referred to as 'Iggy' or simply as the 'I.G.' The breed's name, the Italian Greyhound, is a reference to the breed's popularity in Renaissance Italy. Mummified dogs, very similar to the Italian Greyhound, have been found in Egypt and clay pictorials of small Greyhound like dogs have been found in Pompeii - which means that the Italian Greyhound is most likely not a native Italian breed. The Italian Greyhound is believed to have originated over 2000 years ago. The Italian Greyhound is the smallest member of the sighthound typing and are considered to be a 'toy' breed. The Italian Greyhound has a deep chest, long slender legs and a long neck that tapers down to its small head. The breed's face is pointed in a similar fashion to a full sized Greyhound - the breed is actually aesthetically a miniature version of the Greyhound. While many Italian owners dispute the term 'Miniature Greyhound, ' the American Kennel Club states that the Italian Greyhound have the same genetic bloodline as the Greyhound. The temperament of dogs is normally affected by the following factors: individual personality, heredity, training and socialization. It is therefore important to make sure that you meet the puppy's mother before purchasing a Italian Greyhound. It is also important to make sure to thoroughly socialize your Italian Greyhound with strangers, children and other animals during its puppyhood. Generally speaking, the Italian Greyhound makes a great companion dog as it enjoys the company of people. However the Italian Greyhound has an extremely fragile build which makes it not a decent choice for families with small children - as rough play is likely to harm an Italian Greyhound. The Italian Greyhound is also known to be incredibly loving, affectionate and loyal to its family unit. It is important to note that as a sporting breed, the Italian Greyhound has a high amount of energy which needs to be expended. If the Italian Greyhound has a buildup of energy it is likely to develop destructive behaviors due to boredom or hyperactivity. Before purchasing any pet it is important to understand that as a pet owner you are responsible for the care and wellbeing of your pet. It is important to try and learn as much as you can about the animal you are considering to keep as a pet to make sure that your lifestyle, household and financial status are suited to provide your pet with the best possible care. This guide has been designed to provide you with both precise and concise information about a Italian Greyhound's basic needs to help you provide your pet with the best quality care practices. This guide will give an in-depth explanation on training your Italian Greyhound, raising your Italian Greyhound from a puppy, grooming, health care and everything in between! "The Italian Greyhound: A Complete and Comprehensive Owners Guide to: Buying, Owning, Health, Grooming, Training, Obedience, Understanding and Caring for Your Italian Greyhound," by Michael Stonewood is the perfect purchase or gift for a first time Italian Greyhound owner. This guide includes sections on caring for a puppy, breeding, health care, training, the basic cost of owning an Italian Greyhound and much more. This book is the second edition - the first edition was published by 'Dog Care Professionals.'