Italian Greyhound vs Miniature American Shepherd
Breed Compatibility
84% Compatible
Energy Level
Italian Greyhound: Regular Exercise0.6
Miniature American Shepherd: Energetic0.8
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Italian Greyhound: Independent0.4
Miniature American Shepherd: Eager to Please1.0
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Italian Greyhound: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Miniature American Shepherd: Daily Brushing0.8
Less Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Italian Greyhound3/5
Miniature American Shepherd5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Italian Greyhound5/5
Miniature American Shepherd5/5
Good with Strangers
Italian Greyhound5/5
Miniature American Shepherd3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Italian Greyhound
Dental Disease: Common gum problems
Leg Fractures: Due to fine bones
Epilepsy: Neurological condition
Eye Problems: Progressive issues
Hypothyroidism: Hormone imbalance
Patellar Luxation: Knee problems
Miniature American Shepherd
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
MDR1 Gene: Drug sensitivity issue
PRA: Progressive retinal atrophy
Collie Eye Anomaly: Vision defect
Epilepsy: Neurological condition
Cataracts: Vision clouding concern
Pros & Cons Comparison
Italian Greyhound
Pros
Gentle and affectionate
Low grooming needs
Excellent apartment dog
Minimal shedding
Cons
Fragile bone structure
Cold sensitivity
Challenging to housebreak
Separation anxiety prone
Miniature American Shepherd
Pros
Highly intelligent and trainable
Excellent family companion
Versatile working ability
Compact size
Strong herding instincts
Cons
High exercise needs
Regular grooming required
Can be vocal
Strong herding instinct may need management
Requires consistent training
Italian Greyhound Fun Fact
Despite their delicate appearance, Italian Greyhounds can reach speeds of up to 25 miles per hour!
Miniature American Shepherd Fun Fact
Despite their small size, they retain all the working abilities of their larger Australian Shepherd ancestors!
Heritage & Purpose
Italian Greyhound
Origin:
Refined in Italy during the Renaissance period as companion dogs for nobility, these graceful hounds served as cherished pets in palaces and estates across Europe.
Miniature American Shepherd
Origin:
Developed in California during the 1960s as a smaller version of Australian Shepherds, these dogs were bred specifically for herding smaller livestock and companion work.
Special Considerations
Italian Greyhound
Requires protection from cold weather, careful handling due to delicate bone structure, and consistent dental care. Cannot tolerate rough play or extended outdoor exposure.
Miniature American Shepherd
Needs regular grooming to maintain coat condition. Requires substantial exercise and mental stimulation. Health testing for MDR1 gene mutation recommended.
Related Comparisons
Same Group
Italian Greyhound vs Yorkshire Terrier →Same Group
Italian Greyhound vs Japanese Chin →Similar Size
Italian Greyhound vs Yorkshire Terrier →Similar Size
Italian Greyhound vs Wire Fox Terrier →