🐾 Small · Italy
A delicate, highly sensitive sighthound with paper-thin skin; visible ribs and a pronounced pelvis are normal at ideal weight, not a sign of malnourishment.
Affectionate, cuddly, and closely bonded to its owner, while reserved toward strangers. Sensitive to harsh handling and learns best through gentle, consistent motivation.
Needs daily free-running opportunities with short sprints but is otherwise no endurance athlete. At home it is remarkably calm and happily lies under a blanket for hours.
The short coat is low-maintenance but requires a coat in cold or wet weather, as the breed is highly sensitive to cold. Teeth should be checked regularly, as tartar buildup is common in the breed.
Suited to calm, sensitive owners who provide cold protection and don't let the dog jump off furniture, since its legs fracture easily. Not a dog for boisterous children or rough handling.
Prone to leg fractures (thin, long bones), dental problems, and in some lines patellar luxation and progressive retinal atrophy. A health test of the parent dogs before purchase is advisable.
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This information is for general guidance and does not replace veterinary or breeder advice. Temperament and health vary individually within every breed.
Souldog