The Italian Greyhound is a true greyhound and not the result of a crossbreed.  Selective breeding was used to develop this much smaller breed.  They may have been bred for hunting or just as a pet but the result is a pet that adapts well to city or rural life.  They enjoy being pampered but, being a hound, they love to exercise and they really enjoy outdoor activities in warm weather.

The best characteristic, in my opinion is their wonderful, loving disposition.  They love to be held and cuddled and enjoy climbing under the covers to sleep with their owners at night.  They tend to be timid around strangers but lots of socialization at a young age can counter this issue.  They get along and play well with children and other pets.  They are intelligent and love to please their owners so they are very easy to train.  They perform well in agility, lure coursing and obediance trials.