5 Common Italian Greyhound Health Concerns

Italian Greyhounds are total cuddle bugs that want nothing more than to spend time with the ones they love. With proper socialization, these pups excel in family units. 

Before bringing home one of these sweet furry friends, it’s key to have a deep understanding of the breed’s health history. Below, we’ll share 5 of the most common Italian Greyhound health concerns so that you can be a prepared pooch parent. 

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is characterized by the underproduction of the thyroid gland. This gland is responsible for regulating a dog’s metabolism, so the condition can present a wide range of symptoms. Affected dogs may experience hair loss, lethargy, weight gain, and changes in appetite or thirst. 

This condition can only be diagnosed through blood testing. Once diagnosed, affected dogs will need to take a daily thyroid replacement hormone medication. Thankfully, most dogs are able to live relatively unaffected lives once given the appropriate medication. 

Von Willebrand’s Disease

This common bleeding disorder is difficult to diagnose. Von Willebrand’s disease occurs when a dog’s blood does not have enough protein to produce platelets. Hence, affected dogs aren’t able to clot blood properly, resulting in significant blood loss in the event of an injury. The genetic condition is fairly common in breeds like Italian Greyhounds and Doberman Pinschers. 

Though the disease cannot be cured, your veterinarian can prescribe your pooch with medication to help stimulate platelet production. In the event that your dog is scraped or injured, it’s best to seek advice from a pet professional immediately as affected dogs will lose blood at a much higher rate. 

Color Mutant Alopecia

This genetic defect is more common in Italian Greyhounds causes occasional bouts of hair loss and flaky/dry skin. The condition is more common in certain breeds like Whippets and Greyhounds. Thankfully, this condition poses little to no health risk. 

While most dogs do not grow back hair in the affected areas, there’s no need to “treat” this condition. Though you cannot cure color mutant alopecia, you veterinarian may have some lifestyle recommendations regarding proper management. For example, your dog may be more susceptible to skin injuries. In addition, affected dogs may need to use sensitive shampoos to avoid irritation. 

Glaucoma 

Glaucoma is caused by the improper drainage of extraneous fluid surrounding the eye. This can put unnecessary pressure on the eye, leading to pain and negatively affected vision. Dogs with glaucoma may experience eye pain, a watery discharge, lethargy, or swelling around the eyeball. 

Glaucoma can be progressive or acute and is more common in some breeds than others as a hereditary condition. Diagnosed dogs will need to take pain relieving medications on a daily basis. In some cases, surgical intervention can help reduce the pressure on a dog’s affected eye. 

Monorchidism

This genetic abnormality occurs when one of a dog’s testicles fails to drop properly within the scrotum. Some dogs may be seen constantly licking in the genital area, or experience behavioral changes. Luckily, dogs can recover from this condition with the help of hormone therapy or surgical intervention. Once corrected, most dogs with this condition go on to live fairly unchanged lives. Most dogs will be diagnosed with monorchidism within the first few months of puppyhood. 

Like any other dog, the Italian Greyhound comes with his own set of health concerns. With that in mind, these sweet speedy dogs are generally super healthy dogs. Enjoy welcoming one of these distinct dogs into your life! 

Did you know that stem cell banking during the spay/neuter can be a great benefit to your pup as they age. Learn more HERE.