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ITALIAN GREYHOUND |
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Evidence of miniature Greyhounds was found in the tombs of Egypt, but this exquisite version of its larger counterpart was bred to perfection during Roman times in Italy. Like many of the toy varieties, the little Italian was not bred to serve his masters in any way but as a lap dog. In fact, the miniature Greyhound may well be the first breed bred exclusively as a pet. Some believe that the Latin motto, cave canem (beware the dog), did not warn guests of the tough mastiff kept as a guard, but instead asked them to be careful not to harm the tiny Italian Greyhound. The Italian Greyhound was fancied by the ladies of the court, quickly winning the hearts of Mary Queen of Scots and Anne of Denmark. King Lobengula, chief of a 19th-century Mata-bele tribe, was so entranced by their prancing movement he gave a breeder 200 head of cattle for one Italian Greyhound! Frederick the Great succumbed to their charms, as did countless others. The king carried his favorite pet with him, even into battle. It is said during the Seven Years' War that Frederick found it necessary to hide from the enemy under a bridge. If the dog had barked a warning or whined in fear, Frederick and Prussia would have met an early and tragic fate. But the dog hugged his master in silence. During the
19th century, miniaturization of the breed was carried to grotesque
extremes in Europe and Britain. The pathetic results were often sterile.
Fortunately, by 1900, good sense again reigned. Although the two World
Wars dealt harshly with the breed in Europe, good stock abounded in
Canada and the USA to export, replenish and rejuvenate the Italian Greyhound.
Their current
devotees sing praises of their easy care, their cleanliness, their quiet
behavior. Owners are warned, however, to take care that they are not
chilled. They definitely are house dogs, not candidates for kennels
or cold outdoor living. Unlike most of the sighthounds, their size lets
them receive plenty of exercise by following their people around the
house. Their quiet demeanor invites gentle care.
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