Italian Greyhounds are, in relative terms, a fairly healthy breed. However, with the explosion in numbers of home and commercial breeders, we are seeing a direct correlation to an increase in severe health issues. DNA health testing does not prevent these issues – there are no DNA tests for the common health problems highlighted below.

Leg breaks / fractures

Italian Greyhounds have long, fine bones but they should be able to live happy, healthy lives which includes running freely, and generally just being dogs, without breaking a leg. No dog should snap a leg just walking along flat ground, or because they were playing with a toy at home, but that is what is happening with badly bred puppies far too often.

More info on leg breaks:

• What to do if your Italian Greyhound has a fracture / suspected fracture
• Preventing leg fractures
• Treating leg fractures/ broken legs

Genetically inherited epilepsy

Despite ongoing research, there is no DNA test for genetically inherited epilepsy. We are seeing a surge in reported cases following large numbers of imported dogs that were used widely by commercial breeders and unsuspecting home breeders who bred without doing the research into the health behind the pedigrees of the sire and dams. There are commercial breeders in the UK who are knowingly breeding with Italian Greyhounds that have been identified as having genetically inherited epilepsy in their lines. No responsible breeder would ever do this. Epilepsy is a cruel disease and one that has major impact on both the dog and their owners in terms of management and care of the dog. The Kennel Club has more info on canine epilpesy >

Gum (periodontal) disease

IGs are prone to gum disease and as a result, a daily dental routine is essential to maintain optimum oral hygiene. Teeth should be kept clean and free of tartar by daily brushing with an appropriate canine toothpaste. A daily wipe around the gums with a cotton bud dipped in chlorhexidine (an anti-septic and disinfectant solution) is also good for killing nasty bacteria in the mouth. Read more on Grooming & Maintenance >