The Italian Greyhound has been around for centuries, and is so old that documents pertaining to its earliest origins have been lost. This isn’t to say there isn’t evidence hinting at it. Skeletal remains and ancient art from Mediterranean countries including Greece and Turkey depict dogs resembling the Italian Greyhound. Cynologists believe that before its arrival in Mediterranean countries through Roman soldiers, however, the breed originated in Egypt as a result of breedings between the smallest of Greyhounds.

By the Middle Ages, these “Miniature Greyhounds” were seen all over Southern Europe. They were a particular favorite with Roman ladies and Italian courtiers which is likely how the breed got its name. Later on, the Italian Greyhound was one of the only two toy breeds named in a dog book in 1820.

“Molley,” by George Earl, belonged to a Mr. McDonald and may have been a show dog as her polished sterling silver collar with a silver lock features three small silver shields are thought to be medals from dog show wins.