Italian Greyhound vs Saluki

Toy · Small vs Hound · Large

Quick take
  • Saluki is the larger breed at 40–65 lbs (males) vs 7–14 lbs for the Italian Greyhound.
  • The Italian Greyhound typically lives longer (14–15 years).
  • The Italian Greyhound sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitItalian GreyhoundSaluki
Group
ToyHound
Size
SmallLarge
Origin
ItalyEgypt
Height (male)
13–15"23–28"
Height (female)
13–15"23–28"
Weight (male)
7–14 lbs40–65 lbs
Weight (female)
7–14 lbs40–65 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
14–15 years10–17 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)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Very Low (1/5)
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)Low (2/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
shortmedium
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 Saluki

The Saluki is a graceful, dignified, gentle Persian sighthound — one of the world's oldest breeds, depicted on Egyptian tombs. Originally from Egypt, this large hound breed typically weighs 40–65 lbs and lives 10–17 years. Breeders describe them as graceful, dignified, gentle.

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Italian Greyhound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Leg fractures
  • Dental issues
  • Hypothyroidism
  • PRA

Saluki health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Heart disease
  • Cancer
  • Anesthesia sensitivity