Italian Greyhound vs Pomeranian

Toy · Small vs Toy · Toy

Quick take
  • Italian Greyhound is the larger breed at 7–14 lbs (males) vs 3–7 lbs for the Pomeranian.
  • The Italian Greyhound typically lives longer (14–15 years).
  • The Italian Greyhound sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitItalian GreyhoundPomeranian
Group
ToyToy
Size
SmallToy
Origin
ItalyGermany
Height (male)
13–15"6–7"
Height (female)
13–15"6–7"
Weight (male)
7–14 lbs3–7 lbs
Weight (female)
7–14 lbs3–7 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
14–15 years12–16 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very Low (1/5)High (4/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very Low (1/5)High (4/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with kids
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Coat length
shortlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Italian Greyhound

The Italian Greyhound is a playful, alert, sensitive miniature sighthound — Renaissance lapdog favored by Italian nobility. Originally from Italy, this small toy breed typically weighs 7–14 lbs and lives 14–15 years. Breeders describe them as playful, alert, sensitive.

About the Pomeranian

The Pomeranian is a bold, lively, inquisitive fluffy spitz — descended from sled dogs, now under 10 lbs of pure attitude. Originally from Germany, this toy toy breed typically weighs 3–7 lbs and lives 12–16 years. Breeders describe them as bold, lively, inquisitive.

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Italian Greyhound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Leg fractures
  • Dental issues
  • Hypothyroidism
  • PRA

Pomeranian health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Tracheal collapse
  • Heart disease
  • Dental issues