Italian Greyhound's Sweet Bond With Her Toddler Sister Will Leave You Misty-Eyed
Hang onto your tissue box, because you just might need it for this sweet story of an Italian greyhound's bond with her toddler sister. This TikTok video is an amazing chronicle of a senior dog living her best life, and the love that she's experienced with her family, neatly wrapped up as a virtual birthday card for the 3-year-old girl. Even for an outside observer, it's an emotional journey, but oh so worth the watch.
@tikatheiggy My little sister Eleanor came into the world three years ago, early and fragile, but stronger than we ever expected, just like us Italian greyhounds. She is patient with me, gentle with everyone, and kind beyond her years. Her laugh is the happiest sound and it fills our home with so much light. And just like me, she already has a love for fashion that makes me so proud. Happy 3rd birthday to my sweet Eleanor. You are my baby sister and one very special girl.
Told from the aging dog's perspective, we see the pup named Tika's life unfold, starting from being an only dog with two doting dads, to adding a brother, a sister, and a puppy over the course of 15 years, all with the grace and understanding only a loving pooch can have. The story especially focuses on Tika's bond with the little girl, who was born early and fragile, and who Tika felt the need to help nurture, always staying by her side and sleeping with her.
As the clip winds down, Tika reflects on growing old as the sister and the puppy are full of energy, noting that their bond will never fade. Sadly, Tika passed away soon after the video was posted, but her memory will live forever, and we can all take a page out of her book to be kind, gentle, and enjoy life.
Italian greyhound temperament and traits
Slim, sleek-looking Italian greyhounds are known to be affectionate and clingy, often labeled as "Velcro dogs" for wanting to be always by their human companion's side. In general, they are considered to be one of the cutest small dog breeds in the world. While social and playful around the ones they love, they can be shy or timid with strangers, requiring healthy socialization to gain confidence. Although mainly lapdogs, they can also be highly energetic, with a stubborn streak and watchdog mentality to boot. Because of all this, they are prone to showing signs of separation anxiety.
In terms of physical traits, the breed does not tolerate the cold well because of their coat, requiring lots of indoor time in chilly weather, and their overall fragile build can leave their bones susceptible to breaks. Their slender build and short coat make them crave snuggled-up warmth, so buying them a sweater or another suitable doggy outfit is often encouraged. But that delicateness only adds to their allure, hopefully teaching their human companions about empathy and vulnerability. If you're lucky, such a bonded dog may just turn out to be your soul pet.