Italian Greyhounds are slim and a graceful and delicate breed these dogs are lively and enjoy moderate exercise. Italian Greyhounds have a lifespan of 12 to 15 years but they can live more if taken care of properly. Generally they are healthy but still they can have health issues such as:
1. Dental Problems
Italian Greyhounds have small mouths which can lead to overcrowded teeth and plaque buildup. So brush their teeth daily with a dog toothpaste. Give them foods which can be good for their dental health.
For professional teeth cleaning you can visit a dentist. And give them toys that can help reduce plaque. If you will not use these tips your dog can face gum inflammation, tooth loss, and systemic infections.
2. Bone Fractures
Italian Greyhounds can get fractures especially when they are puppies and also minor falls during playtime. So supervise playtime and don’t let them jump from high surfaces. And you can use joint supplements but ask the vet first.
3. Luxating Patella
Luxating patella happens when the kneecap dislocates from its normal position. It causes difficulty in walking. Your Italian greyhound will do skipping or hopping during movement, if the case will be mild then it can be treated with physical therapy and if it is severe then there will be a surgery to realign the kneecap. So focus on maintaining a healthy weight of your dog.
4. Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is not so common in Italian Greyhounds. In hip dysplasia there is an abnormal formation of the hip joint which gives pain to the dog. It is caused normally because of genetics but weight control can help. It can be treated with medications and surgery in severe cases.
5. Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
PRA is a genetic disorder that causes the retina to deteriorate with time which causes blindness. So the symptom is that your dog will face difficulty to see at night or in dim light.
6. Epilepsy
Italian Greyhounds with epilepsy can experience recurring seizures from little to full body shakes. Signs for this can be loss of consciousness and unusual behaviors. For treatment of this vets give Anti-seizure medications.
7. Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism happens when the thyroid gland produces insufficient hormones which affect the dog’s metabolism. Symptoms for this are they will dislike cold and they will have dry skin and coat plus hair loss. To address this health issue, vets typically begin by conducting blood tests to measure thyroid hormone levels. Afterward, they give medication.
Types Of Cancer In Italian Greyhounds
| 1. Mast Cell Tumors (MCT) | These are the tumors of the immune system cells which can appear as lumps on the skin. Signs: Swollen lumps, redness, or itchiness on the skin. Treatment: Surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation. |
| 2. Osteosarcoma (Bone Cancer) | Less common in Italian Greyhounds. Signs: Lameness, swelling in a limb, or persistent pain. Treatment: Amputation combined with chemotherapy is often recommended. |
| 3. Hemangiosarcoma | A cancer of the blood vessels that affects internal organs like the spleen. Signs: Weakness, pale gums, abdominal swelling, or sudden collapse. Treatment: Surgery to remove the affected organ |
| 4. Lymphoma | A cancer of the lymphatic system. Signs: Enlarged lymph nodes, lethargy and weight loss. Treatment: Chemotherapy is the primary treatment. |
What Is The Neurological Disorder In Italian Greyhounds?
There are some neurological disorders which italian greyhounds can face:
1. Idiopathic Epilepsy
In this neurological problem uncontrolled muscle movements happen. To make sure this is the reason blood tests, MRI, or CT scans can help. For treatment of this doctors can give medications like phenobarbital or potassium bromide.
2. Degenerative Myelopathy (Rare)
Degenerative myelopathy is a spinal cord disease that can happen to older Italian Greyhounds. They will feel difficulty in standing and paralysis in advanced stages.
3. Cerebellar Abiotrophy (Rare)
The cerebellum is the area of the brain which controls coordination and balance. However, in this genetic disorder, it suddenly stops working. We think there is no cure for this.
4. Neuropathy (Peripheral Nerve Disorders)
Some Italian Greyhounds may experience peripheral neuropathy that involves damage to the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord. They will feel muscle weakness. Physical therapy can help to solve this condition.
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