[VirginiaPhotography]

Hello fellow IG owners, breeders, and enthusiasts! I am a first timer for having my own dog (non family dog) and owning (in September) my very own IG. I had dogs growing up, all outside though. So I have a few questions, concerns, and curiosities to ask all of you. And in return I hope this topic helps others in my situation.


Q1: What are the top necessary items I should buy or have before my IG arrives?

Q2a: I am planning on feeding my dog raw, for those who feed their IG's raw what are the proportions of daily feeding? (once morning, once evening? Once a day? ect.)
Q2b: For those who feed kibble what is something a college student can afford? Or non college adult?

Q3: What should I look for in looking for the best vet for my IG?
(If any of you are from Portland, OR I will be living downtown so I would love any recommendations for certain vets down there)

Q4: What training items should I get for outside potting only? I was thinking of training my IG to hit a cowbell by the front door if they have to potty, would that work?

Q5: What toys should I probably have for my IG to play with?

Q6: Is there anything I don't have to have but should have?

Q7: What should I buy for bathing my IG? (I have some pet allergies, so please something to help me with that)

Anything else?

Thanks,
Heather

This post has been edited by VirginiaPhotography: 16 June 2010 - 07:11 PM

[sheri]

A million and one things to consider with an Italian Greyhound...

Since this is your first dog, aside from outside family dogs, be sure to do as much research as you can on the breed. This is a very tough breed in many aspects and especially for a first time owner. Having an Italian Greyhound in your life means no more "alone time". This breed in considered a velcro-dog, literally because they are stuck to you no matter where you are in the house. An IG should not be left alone for long lengths of time or behavioral issues may arise. This breed needs constant interaction and activity for both the body and the mind. They are a very high-energy dog and exercise is extremely important. Depending on the age of the dog you plan on adopting, getting a full night sleep is out of the question. Potty training is an extremely difficult concept for this breed and should be done with repetition and positive reinforcement. Potty training outdoors can be difficult for some IGs. Most do not like cold, rain or snow, so the probability of one choosing not to eliminate outdoors in those types of situations is high. If litter box training indoors is not acceptable to you, this might not be the breed for you. There are several health issues associated with the breed such as leg breaks, dental issues, thyroid disease, alopecia, patellar luxation, seizures, allergies... etc.

Q1: What are the top necessary items I should buy or have before my IG arrives?
A large expen with a covered top. Inside this expen should be a burrow-type bed, litter box, water dish, toys, etc. This is where your IG should stay when you are not home or cannot watch him/her. It is important to have a covered area because this breed is known for jumping and climbing out of places, thus the leg breaks.

Also a kennel, martingale collar, kong, nylabones, etc.

Q2a: I am planning on feeding my dog raw, for those who feed their IG's raw what are the proportions of daily feeding? (once morning, once evening? Once a day? ect.)
Q2b: For those who feed kibble what is something a college student can afford? Or non college adult?
If feeding raw, it is very important to do your research on this type of diet to be sure you are meeting the nutritional requirements for your dog. I feel it is very important for any dog to have two or three meals daily. (Also depending on the age of your dog, it may be more frequently.) Choice of dog food varies with each dog and you should find out what the breeder is currently feeding and slowly transition the dog from that diet to the one you are interested in.

Q3: What should I look for in looking for the best vet for my IG?
(If any of you are from Portland, OR I will be living downtown so I would love any recommendations for certain vets down there)
A vet who is familiar with sighthounds is very important. You might also locate a dental specialist, an orthopedic surgeon and an e-vet to have available if need be.

Q4: What training items should I get for outside potting only? I was thinking of training my IG to hit a cowbell by the front door if they have to potty, would that work?
This I mentioned above... Some have trained both to a litter box and to the outdoors (when weather is good). A bell can be used but with much training. If you are to be away from home for any length of time, a litter box inside the expen is important.

Q5: What toys should I probably have for my IG to play with?
Again depending on age: teething toys, kongs, nylabones, interactive toys...

Q6: Is there anything I don't have to have but should have?
Coats and sweaters are a necessity in colder climates and really is a "should have"...

Q7: What should I buy for bathing my IG? (I have some pet allergies, so please something to help me with that)
An oatmeal soapless shampoo is always a good place to start especially since IGs can have sensitive skin.
Remember, bathing too often can cause dry irritated skin...

Just to sum up, this breed is very tender hearted and can be very skittish if handled incorrectly. Early socialization is extremely important. Training should be done with positive reinforcement only... never harsh words or harsh punishment... Happy, happy, happy is the way to go with an Italian Greyhound. This link gives the pros and cons of the breed and this link is very good reading material on the breed.

This post has been edited by sheri: 17 June 2010 - 12:26 PM

[exoduslaughin]

Congrats on your upcoming arrival! Are you getting a puppy or an adult?

Here's some answers for you.

Q1: What are the top necessary items I should buy or have before my IG arrives?

This is just a few things, I'm sure you'll see things when you are in the petstore: crate, martingale collar, leash, food bowls (not plastic). Since you live in Portland and I imagine winters are cold there, you should look into a sweater or coat.

Q2a: I am planning on feeding my dog raw, for those who feed their IG's raw what are the proportions of daily feeding? (once morning, once evening? Once a day? ect.)

I feed raw, and my girls each get 1/4 lb. of ground meat with bone per day. That is split into 2 meals (so 1/8 lb. per meal), morning and evening. On top of that I add any combination of salmon oil, kelp, fruits, veggies, cottage cheese, Sojos oatmeal mix and egg. The amount you need to feed will depend on your dog's weight. Then once you are actually feeding him/her, you will see that maybe you need to give a little more or less depending on if you see him/her gaining/losing weight. A dog fed raw will lose a little bulk in the beginning, they tend to have more lean muscle than a dog fed kibble. And if you are getting a puppy, you may need to feed a little more... I'm not 100% on this as I started with raw when my girls were adults. I agree with Sheri, if you are going to feed raw you must do your research.

Q2b: For those who feed kibble what is something a college student can afford? Or non college adult?

I just started using Orijen for fosters, and that runs about $36 for a 15 lb. bag. So far I'm happy with it. But the guy I buy my raw food from, was telling me about a brand called Precise. He said it's not as expensive as Orijen, and he thinks it's a great food. I was reading about it, and it looks good. They do not have a grain-free formula though.

Q3: What should I look for in looking for the best vet for my IG?
(If any of you are from Portland, OR I will be living downtown so I would love any recommendations for certain vets down there)

If you can find a vet that has sighthound (or even specifically IG) experience, that's great. Otherwise, your best bet will be getting recommendations from people in your area.

Q4: What training items should I get for outside potting only? I was thinking of training my IG to hit a cowbell by the front door if they have to potty, would that work?

I used to have a bell hanging on a ribbon, and you can teach them to use it. At first you ring the bell and say "outside" every time you are taking them out. And eventually they figure out that they can ring it to tell you that they need to go out. Other than that, your best tools for potty training outside is praise and treats. As soon as he/she pees or poops give lots of praise and a treat, say something like "good potty" or "good make" so you can eventually teach "go potty" or "go make." That's helpful at times when they are more interested in playing than pottying.

Q5: What toys should I probably have for my IG to play with?

Mine love all toys, but they especially love stuffed animals.

Q6: Is there anything I don't have to have but should have?

I'm not sure how to answer this one. If you have forgotten something, you'll figure it out once you have the dog.

Q7: What should I buy for bathing my IG? (I have some pet allergies, so please something to help me with that)

I have a shampoo that is made with all natural ingredients, so something like that might work well for you. Of course, I can't think of the name of it. But I know that I got it at Petco.

This post has been edited by exoduslaughin: 17 June 2010 - 11:39 AM

[adrenalina]

Congrats!
I have to say I disagree with the martingale collar- it has caused various breathing problems with my pup and his vet said that it could lead to a tracheal collapse. Harnesses are recommended for iggies, and I sugguest one that is padded so it doesn't give the dog a rash under his arms.

One more thing, I wouldn't consider this a high energy dog. They get bursts of energy and like any dog they need exercise, but they are big couch potatoes and would be more than happy to spend the day on the couch cuddled up with you.

[exoduslaughin]

adrenalina, on 17 June 2010 - 03:33 PM, said:

Congrats!
I have to say I disagree with the martingale collar- it has caused various breathing problems with my pup and his vet said that it could lead to a tracheal collapse. Harnesses are recommended for iggies, and I sugguest one that is padded so it doesn't give the dog a rash under his arms.

I'm sorry, but I have to disagree with you. Harnesses are NOT recommended for IGs. I understand that your vet recommended it to you, but most people will tell you that you should use a martingale because IGs CAN slip out of harnesses and regular collars (search the history here, and you will find posts on this topic). I'm sorry to hear that your dog is having breathing problems. What was the width of the martingale you were using? A thin collar can lead to collapsed trachea in many (if not all) small breeds, if the dog pulls against the collar. Most of us like to use a wider martingale, so that it actually protects the trachea if the dog pulls. Any kind of thin collar could potentially cause a problem, if the dog pulls against it.

[sheri]

exoduslaughin, on 17 June 2010 - 07:22 PM, said:

I'm sorry, but I have to disagree with you. Harnesses are NOT recommended for IGs. I understand that your vet recommended it to you, but most people will tell you that you should use a martingale because IGs CAN slip out of harnesses and regular collars (search the history here, and you will find posts on this topic). I'm sorry to hear that your dog is having breathing problems. What was the width of the martingale you were using? A thin collar can lead to collapsed trachea in many (if not all) small breeds, if the dog pulls against the collar. Most of us like to use a wider martingale, so that it actually protects the trachea if the dog pulls. Any kind of thin collar could potentially cause a problem, if the dog pulls against it.

Thank you Patrice... I was just about to write a response but read yours and basically, you said it all. I have never read anywhere that states harnesses are recommended for Italian Greyhounds. They can and will slip out of almost anything, which is why a martingale is the only safe option. Martingales come in a variety of widths. Narrow widths, in any collar, should never be used on a breed with a neck length of an IG. A 1 1/2 inch to 2 inch wide padded martingale collar is an appropriate size in protecting the trachea.

This post has been edited by sheri: 17 June 2010 - 06:58 PM

[sheri]

There is also a nice write-up on the Italian Greyhound that basically describes the breed perfectly. I could not, for the life of me, find it to include in my first post. Check this link out.

[abbysmom]

Just want to welcome you to the Post. I think the others have covered all the basics. Can't wait to see pix of your new "baby."

[VirginiaPhotography]

Thank you so much for all of your answers! My new IG, if everything goes as planned, should arrive first thing when I am all settled into my apartment downtown Portland. (around August/September, my 23rd birthday is Sep 24th!)

I am hoping to adopt between the ages of 1 and 5 years old. With more emphasis on the younger. That way I can receive a pup that is hopefully already taught the basics of potty training inside and outside. I do intend on spending a lot of time with this dog to cater to it's needs in any way possible when I am not in class. And I am very much a socialite outside of my house, so the IG will have loads of socializing! I'm sure my IG will become attached to my hip if I'm working at school outside of class time.

I am looking forward for my phone interview early this week with Krista Thompson so that I can start the search for my very own IG! Pictures will be up as soon as I have them! And I'm sure my IG will become apart of my photographic portfolio this year during school! So I will keep everyone posted when I put them on my website.


I have been doing a ton of research for feeding raw and will continue to do so till I know for sure whats the right diet and consistency for my IG. I found this sight to be very helpful. as many others various sights suggested upon a different post upon these forums...
http://www.rawlearning.com/rawfaq.html

Knowing that each individual person will give their own opinion for collar or body harness, I am more apt for a body harness for outside and a collar for inside. And will see which my IG prefers. Of course I will still accept any suggestions.

[sheri]

VirginiaPhotography, on 21 June 2010 - 06:36 PM, said:

Knowing that each individual person will give their own opinion for collar or body harness, I am more apt for a body harness for outside and a collar for inside. And will see which my IG prefers. Of course I will still accept any suggestions.

Congratulations on your decision to adopt an Italian Greyhound... It sounds like you have been doing a lot of work in understanding the breed and in researching raw feeding.

Please consult sighthound breeders and/or specialists in the decision to use a harness versus a martingale. A martingale collar is not the same as a buckle or clip collar. It is truly not just a matter of opinion. It is specifically designed for a sighthound's anatomy and is vital in the safety of your Italian Greyhound.

An IG can and will bolt if frightening or spooked. An IG can and will bolt if small game, such as a squirrel or rabbit, dart out in front of him/her. A martingale collar was specifically designed for Italian Greyhounds, Whippets, Greyhounds, Salukis, etc. to safely prevent the dog from slipping out. A buckle collar, clip collar, harness, etc. can be very easily wiggled or slipped out of due to head and body stucture, hence the high possibility of loosing your dog... Recalls can me nothing to a frightened or high-prey driven IG...

Also be cautious of leaving any collar, save for a break-away, on an IG in the house. There is always the potential of an IG getting caught up on something in the house and can be a choking hazard.

Good luck on your new Italian Greyhound! We will be looking forward to the photographs...

This post has been edited by sheri: 21 June 2010 - 06:52 PM

[Baciboo]

Hi VP,
Congrats on your soon to be Iggy ownership (or should that be 'owned by') ....

I feed my IG mostly on dry food (you guys from the US call it kibble), plus a small amount of wet once a day to make it a little different. She eats Royal Canin and looks fantastic.

I tried the martingale - no good. I bought a guaranteed not to break 'synthetic' collar with a nylon 'click' catch - she snapped that going after a seagull when I wasn't being mindful. She now wears a miniature version of a greyhound collar. Double thickness leather, very wide around the the throat, with a buckle and definitely not going to break! Also, it's a fallacy that a buckle collar will pull over an IGs head - for that to happen, the collar has been incorrectly fitted. Same goes for whippets and greyhounds.

As for harnesses, I use one in the car as it provides great support around the chest and shoulders should an accident occur - god forbid that my IG should be tethered around the neck in the car. Otherwise, I'm not a fan of harnesses for walking, as in OZ, it's pretty difficult to buy anything that fits an IG properly.

Happy days to you and your soon to be IG :)

cheers B

Edited to add, IGs should rarely need washing.

This post has been edited by Baciboo: 28 June 2010 - 07:31 AM

[Sadie]

Well, I guess I'll jump into the harness/martingale fracas! I use a harness in the car to secure the girls in their carseat for safety. I use a "properly fitted" martingale collar for walking on leash. If the collar is properly adjusted, it should not injure the throat and also, the IG cannot back out of it. Another name for the martingale is a "Greyhound" collar. I have a few different styles and all of them work well with my three girls.
I would suggest talking to your Rescue rep for advice about collars. The rescue rep will also be able to help you plan what you need for your new baby!
Ann, Sadie's foster mom, is still a wonderful resource and we have become friends. We adopted Sadie 7 years ago when she was 6 years old. Ann has so much experience with IGs and can always answer any question I have.
You must be so excited! I'm looking forward to meeting your new IG.

[VirginiaPhotography]

Awe thanks Sadie!

Yeah... I am kid of a bit disappointed with the response from my rescue rep. She was suppose to call me for my phone interview 2 weeks ago. She says she is busy with rep work. But this is not a good way to keep interest for a new adopter.

I know I am not looking to finalize the adoption till September, but I would like to start the search now. So I can know what I will be getting and what is available. Any suggestions? How long do phone interviews usually take?


>Heather

[Sadie]

Heather, I am sure that your Rescue rep is just busy. They are all volunteers and sometimes life just gets in the way. I would just keep contacting her so she knows that you are really interested!

[VirginiaPhotography]

That's what I get for being impatient... loll she gave me a call yesterday! WooT WooT.

So I probably won't be back on here till around September. Because I won't be settled into my new place till then, and as you all know I won't be able to have my home visit till then either. Which is also when I will be able to start the search for the right IG for my lifestyle.
But I will be very eagar till I am all settled into my new apartment and can continue the rest of the process!


Thank you everyone so much for your help and advice!

Till September,
Heather

[OkieIggies]

I think Portland would be a fabulous city to live in with your IG. Best wishes in your search. I totally agree with NOT using a harness. Because of their body shape, it is just too easy for an IG to wriggle out of it. Look forward to hearing about your iggy when it arrives.