Italian Greyhound History can be traced back many years and according to current beliefs, the Italian Greyhound breed of dog is around 2000 years old. No one knows the absolute beginning of the Italian Greyhound, but the Italian Greyhound can be seen in many paintings from famous artists such as Van Dyke and Blake. Many years previously, most authorities believed that the Italian Greyhound was dwarfed for pet purposes from a gazehound.
There are many articles which relate to the Italian Greyhound theory of them being the only recognised breed of dog that was bred for the purpose of being a pet for many years in its country of origin. In more recent years, Italian Greyhound's have graced many Royal places to many historical figures such as Charles I, Queen Anne, Mary Queen of Scots and Frederick the Great.
One of the most historic stories that is known is that of the Matabele King, who was apparently so pleased with the high stepping action of the Italian Greyhound that he gave 200 cattle head to Mr Murcombe Searelle for one of his Italian Greyhound dogs. At this time in History, no other similar price had ever been paid for a breed of dog.
