Origin and use: From the royal courts of Spain and Italy where it was favoured for its elegance.
Height: 32 to 38 cm
Weight: approximately 2,5 to 4,5 kg
Temperament: playful, vivacious, charming, graceful, inwardly calm, not a good watch dog
Useful information: Walks are essential for the Italian even though it can easily be carried. Two light meals a day, rather than one heavy one, will combat inelegant stoutness.

Group clubs:
Victory Toy Dog Club. PO Box 2985, Bellville, 7536
Secretary Tel. 022 481 3983
Jubilee Toy Dog Club. PO Box 1532, Walkerville, 1876
Secretary Tel. 011 855 2078
Pretoria Toy Dog Breeders Association. PO Box 10007, Vorna Valley, 1686
Secretary Tel. 082 684 9615
Toy Dog Breeders Association. PO Box 113, Henly-on-Klip, 1962
Secretary tel. 016 366 0514
Natal Toy Dog Club. PO Box 39954, Queensburgh, 4070
Secretary Tel. 031 903 5463

Please note: Should you not have success with any of the above addresses click here for KUSA's address list.

Breeders:

Sources:
The Kennel Union of SA,
FCI Breed Standards,
Canadian Kennel Club Breed Standards,
Guide to the Dogs of the World published by Treasure Press,
The Readers Digest Illustrated Book of Dogs.