Getting your First IG
Just a few things you can expect…
So you have exhausted all the instagram and facebook posts and decided this is the breed for you. After probably being on an extensive waiting list of a Kusa registered breeder in South Africa you get the call; there is a puppy available for you. As IG puppies normally only leave for their homes at 9 weeks it gives you time to prepare – but what must you prepare for?
A lot of the preparation depends on if you will get a summer or winter puppy but even if it is a summer pup you can still stock up – as winter will be on the way, the South African weather for Italian Greyhounds are more bearable but still they will require their own cupboard of clothes . IG’s are very sensitive to cold but even for summer time and cool nights a vest is recommended, if you have a light-skinned IG a UV vest might also be a necessity to protect the sensitive skin from the South African sun together with a good sunscreen.
IG’s love to cuddle so even though they will likely take over your bed, a calming doughnut bed or any slipcover bed normally are their favourites with a nice soft blanket to cuddle in. At first your new puppy might seem to have an upset stomach; they are such sensitive and emotional creatures that a change as big as being removed from their litter mates and known environment can cause this, even change in water from area to area
might have that effect just keep an eye on your baby make sure they get enough fluids and if you are at any stage concerned go to the Vet!
Your IG will attach itself to the human that looks after them and spends the most time with in the first 24-48hours so make sure the intended ‘owner’ in the house gets the most time with the puppy. It is suggested that you introduce them first to a specific area, for them to have a safe space and then let them venture out for hour or so at a time to explore whilst bringing them back to safe room afterwards.
Can your IG be left alone for long periods of time…mmmmm I’ve lost 3 sets of blinds – so this is a bit of a difficult one. It is suggested they are not kept alone for too long, the ideal solution for this is crate training so that they know they are safe and comfortable in their crate (please go read up more on this) the ideal of course is to get them an IG sibling or 2 or 3 :-). Exercise (refer to our blog on this) needs to be limited according to age. Launching from beds and couches should be avoided due to growth that must still take place.
Here we go …. the sensitive issue of potty training – remember they are royalty (in their minds anyway) and will not potty easily on wet grass or in cold conditions. Putting on a jacket in winter and doing pee pad training works well, they are clever and eager to learn you must find your rhythm with you special little one.