The very definition of elegance in a toy dog, the Italian Greyhound is a breathtakingly perfect miniature dog whose beauty has inspired artistsand dog loversfor centuries. More slender and tiny than the race dog whose name he shares, the Italian Greyhound today ornaments the homes of devoted owners around the world, just as he once graced the divans of European nobility in days gone by. This Comprehensive Owners Guide paints a lifelike portrait of this graceful toy dog that continues to enchant his keepers with his affectionate, vivacious ways. The history chapter, illustrated with artwork and antique photographs, retells the heritage of the Italian Greyhound, from Greece and Turkey to southern Europe to England and America. The chapter on the breeds characteristics focuses on whether this miniature wonder is the right dog to fit into a potential owners household, enumerating the breeds specific requirements, personality traits, and health concerns, all of vital interest to a future IG owner.New owners will welcome the well-prepared chapter on finding a reputable breeder and selecting a healthy, sound puppy. Chapters on puppy-proofing the home and yard, purchasing the right supplies for the puppy as well as house-training, feeding, and grooming are illustrated with photographs of handsome adults and puppies. In all, there are over 135 full-color photographs in this useful and reliable volume. The authors advice on obedience training will help the reader better mold and train into the most well-mannered dog in the neighborhood. The extensive and lavishly illustrated chapter on healthcare provides up-to-date detailed information on selecting a qualified veterinarian, vaccinations, preventing and dealing with parasites, infectious diseases, and more. Sidebars throughout the text offer helpful hints, covering topics as diverse as historical dogs, breeders, or kennels, toxic plants, first aid, crate training, carsickness, fussy eaters, and parasite control. Fully indexed.