Italian Greyhound vs Poodle
Discover the differences between Italian Greyhound and Poodle to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
Italian Greyhound
Graceful and affectionate, this slender breed loves to snuggle and form close bonds with its people. Quick and agile, the Italian Greyhound thrives as a gentle, loyal companion.
Poodle
Elegant, intelligent, and highly trainable, this breed stands out for its lively spirit and loyal companionship. Their hypoallergenic coat and playful personality make them ideal family pets.
Quick comparison
Small
5–6 kg
Short, fine
13–15 years
4.5–5.5 kg
Moderately active
Medium
20–32 kg
Curly, dense
12–15 years
18–27 kg
High energy
Personality & behavior
Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.
Italian Greyhound
Enjoys people, affectionate with family and friends
Quick learner, responsive to gentle training
Active indoors, enjoys regular exercise and walks
Likes interactive play, enjoys chasing toys
Sensitive to change, prefers familiar routines
Poodle
Warm and sociable with family and guests
Highly intelligent and quick to learn commands
Needs regular activity and enjoys exercise
Loves games and interactive playtime
Easily adjusts to new environments and routines
Care needs
Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements
Italian Greyhound
Dental disease, patellar luxation
Poodle
Hip dysplasia, Addison’s disease
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Italian Greyhound
Good option
Gentle and easy to train with patience, but can be sensitive to harsh handling.
Excellent fit
Small size and quiet nature make them well-suited for apartments.
Moderately suitable
Enjoys short bursts of play but may not keep up with highly active owners.
Caution advised
Fragile build and sensitivity make them less ideal for rowdy young children.
Usually compatible
Generally gets along with other pets if socialized early.
Not recommended
Prone to separation anxiety and does poorly when left alone for long periods.
Poodle
Great choice
Intelligent and eager to please, Poodles are easy for beginners to train and manage.
Highly suitable
Poodles adapt well to apartment life if given daily exercise and mental stimulation.
Perfect fit
Their energy and love for activity make them great companions for active households.
Very friendly
Poodles are gentle and patient with children when socialized from a young age.
Gets along well
Poodles usually coexist peacefully with other pets, especially if socialized early.
Prone to anxiety
Poodles can develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods regularly.
Breed strengths
What each breed excels at and their best qualities
Italian Greyhound
- Affectionate with family members
- Compact size suits apartment living
- Generally quiet and not prone to barking
- Quick learners with positive reinforcement
- Low grooming needs due to short coat
Poodle
- Highly intelligent and easy to train
- Hypoallergenic coat reduces shedding
- Strong bond with family members
- Adaptable to various living environments
- Excellent performance in canine sports
Challenges & considerations
Potential challenges and considerations for each breed
Italian Greyhound
- Prone to fragile bones and injuries
- Sensitive to cold temperatures
- Can be timid with strangers
- Difficult to housebreak consistently
- High prey drive may trigger chasing
Poodle
- Requires regular professional grooming
- Prone to separation anxiety if left alone
- Needs daily mental and physical stimulation
- Can be reserved with unfamiliar people
- Susceptible to certain genetic health issues
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