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Levriero Sardo
Hound breed from Sardinia, Italy
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Levriero Sardo
The Levriero Sardo, also known as the Sardinian Greyhound, is a medium-sized sighthound landrace from Sardinia, Italy. It is a rare breed with a lean, athletic build built for speed. Its temperament is described as independent, alert, loyal, intelligent, and reserved. The breed has strong hunting instincts and was traditionally used for hunting hares and small game across rugged terrain. Because it is a landrace, individual dogs may vary, and the breed is not recognized by major international kennel clubs but is documented in regional registries.
Quick facts
Levriero Sardo at a glance
Sizemedium
Breed groupHound
OriginSardinia, Italy
Lifespan12–15 years
Male weight18–25 kilogram
Female weight18–25 kilogram
Male height56–64 centimetre
Female height56–64 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Levriero Sardo is an ancient landrace sighthound native to the island of Sardinia. It is believed to have descended from sighthounds brought to the region by ancient civilizations such as the Phoenicians, though the exact timeline is uncertain. For centuries, it has been prized by local hunters for its speed and stamina, used to pursue hares and small game over Sardinia's rugged landscape. The breed is rare today and is the focus of preservation efforts by local enthusiasts. It is not recognized by major international kennel clubs, but its history is documented in regional breed registries. Because it is a landrace rather than a standardized breed, its characteristics can vary, and much of its early history is based on oral tradition and limited records.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
18–25 kilogramAdult weight56–64 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesPendingCoat colorsPendingRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Independentalertloyalintelligentreserved
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1–5 methodologyDaily care profile
Higher daily exercise demand
Moderate compared with other breeds
Lower coat-maintenance demand
Lower shedding tendency
Family suitability
Home and household fit
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Climate suitability
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
Health overview
Veterinary sources requiredHealth considerations
No Levriero Sardo-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Veterinary disclaimer: This profile is educational and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian.
Feeding overview
Nutrition and feeding
Research in progress
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Decision support
Potential advantages and challenges
Potential advantages
- Commonly described as loyal.Supported by temperaments.loyal: true
Potential challenges
- Higher daily exercise and enrichment needs may not suit every household.Supported by energyScore: 4
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Growth chart
Levriero Sardo puppy growth
Modeled estimates
Open interactive chart From puppy weight to adult size
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
Adult male weight18–25 kilogramAdult female weight18–25 kilogramGrowth modeladult-range-size-model-v1
Preview only. Open the complete chart to adjust age, current weight and measurement units.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
What is the size and lifespan of a Levriero Sardo?
The Levriero Sardo is a medium-sized dog. Estimated adult height ranges from 56 to 64 cm (both sexes), and estimated adult weight ranges from 18 to 25 kg (both sexes). Estimated lifespan is 12 to 15 years. These are modelled estimates, so individual dogs may vary.
What is the temperament of a Levriero Sardo?
The breed is described as independent, alert, loyal, intelligent, and reserved. However, temperament can vary among individuals. They have strong hunting instincts and may be reserved with strangers.
How much exercise does a Levriero Sardo need?
The Levriero Sardo has a high energy level (energy score 4 out of 5). It likely requires regular, vigorous exercise to stay healthy and content, but specific exercise needs are not detailed in the supplied facts.
What are the grooming requirements for a Levriero Sardo?
Grooming needs are low (grooming score 2 out of 5). The coat type is not specified in the supplied facts, but low grooming scores suggest minimal maintenance.
Is the Levriero Sardo suitable for families with children or other dogs?
Child suitability is rated 2 out of 5, indicating it may not be the best choice for families with young children. Dog compatibility is rated 3 out of 5, meaning it may get along with other dogs but individual temperament varies. Early socialization is important.
Can a Levriero Sardo live in an apartment?
Apartment suitability is rated 2 out of 5, suggesting it may not be ideal for apartment living due to its high energy level and need for space. A home with a yard may be more suitable.
Where does the Levriero Sardo originate from?
The Levriero Sardo originates from Sardinia, Italy. It is an ancient landrace sighthound, believed to have descended from sighthounds brought by ancient civilizations like the Phoenicians, though this is not confirmed.
Data transparency
✓ Published · VerifiedSources and review status
APIThe Dog API ↗The Dog API Terms of Service (effective 2023-07-01)
VETERINARY SOURCEWSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines and Toolkit ↗Copyright; factual citation and original summary only
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.