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Italian Greagle |
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He is not recognized by the F.C.I. |
Origin |
Italy <> Great Britain -> U.S.A. | |
Translation |
Francis Vandersteen |
A brief presentation of the Italian Greagle |
The Italian Greagle is a cross between an Italian Greyhound and a Beagle. The exact origins of this little dog are unknown, but many people believe that Kelly and Angela Easley bred the first Italian Greagles at their home in Great Falls, Montana. The dogs have a strong prey drive that they inherited from their parents. They have the visual capabilities of the Italian Greyhound and the sniffing ability of the Beagle. This combination is very prey-oriented, so the Italian Greagle should never be left off-leash unless it's in a secure area, otherwise it will chase something or pick up a strong scent and follow it. He's an adorable dog who adores his master and is very intelligent. Italian Greagles are considered medium-sized, usually measuring around 33 to 38 centimeters at the shoulders and weighing 9 to 18 kilos. |
History of the Italian Greagle |
The Italian Greagle is an ideal cross between the Italian Greyhound and the Beagle. It possesses the best qualities of both breeds. |
A little of the Italian Greyhound |
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The Italian Greyhound is considered an ancient breed. The history of this elegant dog dates back to the Middle Ages. It is thought to have originated in Italy. Its tiny, refined image was depicted on works of art throughout Greece, Turkey and other Mediterranean countries. During the 1600s, its popularity spread throughout England, and it soon became a favorite pet of the country's nobility. During the Second World War, the breed was almost completely wiped out from most of Europe. Fortunately, the Italian Greyhound had been introduced to the USA in the 1890s, and many descendants of the original dogs remained in the country. They helped become the foundation of the breed and reintroduced the popular dog to Europe. The American Kennel Club recognized the Italian Greyhound in 1886 and it became part of the Toy Group. Although the Italian Greyhound is extremely fast, it is never used in lure coursing. | ||
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Standard of the Italian Greyhound | ||
A little of the Beagle |
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The Beagle's origins date back to the 5th century B.C., when these little dogs were used to hunt hares and also kept as pets. In the 11th century, the breed's ancestors were brought to England. At the time, the Beagle was a small dog that could easily slip into a coat pocket. Hunters used the intrepid dogs to hunt in the undergrowth. Elizabeth I favored small Beagles and often called them her "singing Beagles". In the 1830s, the Reverend Phillip Honeywood of Essex is said to have begun breeding larger Beagles that resemble the appearance of the modern breed. Beagles were exported to the USA in the 1840s and became popular pets. In 1885, the Beagle was accepted into the Hound Group by the American Kennel Club. | ||
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Standard of the Beagle |
Appearance of the Italian Greagle |
The Italian Greagle has a blocky, Beagle-like face with floppy ears and a lean, muscular body like the Italian Greyhound. The Italian Greagle's overall physical appearance is extremely elegant. This attractive dog's coat is either short and a little rough, or smooth and silky. The tail is long and whip-like. His expression is alert, and his dark eyes are always watching what's going on around him. His feet are delicate and feline. When he walks, he caracolates with almost every step. |
Temperament of the Italian Greagle |
The Italian Greagle is affectionate and extremely loyal. It's a gentle breed that adores its owner. Unlike many small dogs, the Italian Greagle loves children and makes a good companion because it loves to play and is always gentle. He doesn't bark too much, but will warn you if he hears an unfamiliar noise or sees a stranger. Some people might sometimes consider him a little distant, but he's just independent, which makes him an ideal companion if you spend time working away from home, as he's not too needy. |
Needs and activities of the Italian Greagle |
The Italian Greagle needs a daily walk of at least thirty minutes. He's built for speed and is a true athletic hybrid. Ideally, you should have a secure, fenced yard where he can run and play. Many owners choose to take their dog to a dog park to run and interact with other dogs. He also enjoys playing fetch. Like his parents, the Italian Greagle loves to chase anything that moves. In the evening, he's usually happy to curl up next to his owner if he's had enough exercise during the day. Ideally, apartment living is not the Italian Greagle's first choice. |
Maintenance of the Italian Greagle |
The Italian Greagle's coat is extremely low-maintenance. It rarely needs brushing of any kind. Usually, a bath once a month is enough to control any doggy odor. Some owners brush their dog's teeth to control bad breath and prevent gum disease. This dog's floppy ears should be cleaned of debris once a week, as the length of the ears can allow moisture and dirt to accumulate inside, leading to irritation. His nails are usually worn down naturally if you give him enough exercise. However, if her nails are not naturally short, you may choose to trim her nails once a month to control their length. |