Italian Greyhound – Origin and History

The Italian Greyhound , also known as the Italian Greyhound , is the smallest of the sighthound breeds and boasts a history spanning over 2,000 years . The first depictions of these elegant dogs date back to ancient times, among the Greeks and Egyptians. In the Roman Empire, the Italian Greyhound was a status symbol of the nobility and was used both as a companion dog and for hunting small game. Its graceful appearance and refined nature quickly made it one of the most popular companion dogs of the ancient world.

Popularity in the Renaissance and Modern Times

The Italian Greyhound experienced its heyday during the Renaissance . Famous figures such as Queen Victoria of England and Catherine the Great kept this breed as a symbol of elegance and a noble lifestyle. Numerous paintings from this era depict the Greyhound alongside the nobility. After a population decline during the World Wars, dedicated breeders rescued the breed. Today, the Italian Greyhound is considered a charming, sensitive, and agile companion dog that has retained its typical sighthound nature with grace and speed.

Frederick the Great and his Italian Greyhounds

The Prussian King Frederick the Great (1712–1786) , also known as "Old Fritz," was a great lover of the Italian Greyhound . He kept several of these delicate, elegant greyhounds at his court in Sanssouci and considered them his most loyal companions. The small greyhounds were known for their grace, sensitivity, and affection—traits that Frederick particularly valued.

Particularly famous is the tomb of Frederick the Great in Sanssouci , where his beloved Italian Greyhounds were buried next to him. Even today, these dogs are considered a symbol of elegance and royal history .