Correcting an Italian Greyhound
Italian Greyhounds are very sensitive to punishment, so caution should be used when your IG does something wrong. Italian Greyhounds do not respond well to verbal or physical abuse, and may become fearful, withdrawn, or even aggressive under such circumstances. Proper correction of an IG is essential to ensuring an IG follows the household rules and limits established, maintains confidence, and helps keep a household at peace.
Use Positive Reinforcement
The absolute best way to train an Italian Greyhound is to use positive reinforcement. IGs are a very intelligent breed and a reward upon performing a desired behavior will go a mile in keeping the dog on the right track related to potty habits, leash training or other behaviors. A short few-week sessions in a dog training class, or one-on-one with a dog trainer, will help teach you proper methods for rewarding the dog.
Learning a dog's behavior patterns, and schedule also really helps an owner resolve most common issues encountered. Don't let the dog sneak away to another room without following or verbally calling them, so they are aware you know their whereabouts. Pay attention to the times of day they eat, drink and need to go outdoors to do their business. Watch and learn indicators any IG may give to try and tell you their needs, such as barking, going to the door, pawing at your leg, etc. And, don't "wait a minute" to see what they need, because you may be too late by even delaying that single minute. New owners may want to keep a journal of behaviors, timings and any other observations in order to learn their Italian Greyhound's needs.
Punishments Never To Be Used
These punishments should be completely avoided for an Italian Greyhounds:
- Hitting, Kicking or Physical Abuse
- Yelling or Shouting
- Shock Collars (Often used for barking.)
Behavior problems often develop when a dog becomes withdrawn or fearful due to the above punishments being used. Confident dogs will have far fewer issues with housebreaking or other problems than scared or confused dogs.
Better Corrections for IGs
Issues do happen, so here are some alternatives to help keep your Italian Greyhound in check:
- Spray Bottle - Misting the dog with water often deters barking or other undesired behaviors.
- Unexpected Noises - Clapping loudly or shaking a can filled with pennies provide a good distraction.
- Spray Collar - An alternative to a shock collar for barking, these collars emit a small amount of mist when any dog is barking, and immediate feedback is given even when a person is not nearby.
- Stern Voice - Using a firm voice when correcting a dog, or saying "No!". Italian Greyhounds are smart and will quickly learn that a firm voice means business.
Ask A Rescue Representative
Our rescue representatives are located in almost every state in the USA, and have had experience with many behavior issues. We would much rather help keep an Italian Greyhound in a loving home by answering questions and providing advice, rather than fostering and then re-homing it. If you are having an issue, please contact a local rescue representative to ask a question, get advice, or in extreme circumstances even surrender a dog.
