Our founder and Owner Victoria has owned a 5 star luxury pet care company for over 13 years in the Lakeview neighborhood of Chicago. During that time she has donated her time as a volunteer with PAWS Chicago (level one and adoption counselor), Chicago French Bulldog Rescue (Where she foster failed and adopted two of her former puppy mill mother dogs - A boston terrier named Bettie and a french bulldog named Mabel who is the white frenchie logo of Sit Social). She has donated her space to local rescue/shelter organizations and partnered for rescue events like puppy yoga to raise money for homeless pets. Victoria donates to local dog parks such as the Lakeview Dog Park and Edgewater Dog Park and supports their efforts in providing spaces for the local community. As we continue our legacy of giving back, we are happy to partner with select, local animal rescues and donate our beautiful space for rescue fundraisers where time permits. We also have the opportunity to host rescue events to feature adoptable dogs. If you are a local rescue interested in partnering with us, please email a proposal to bookings@theitaliangreyhoundexperience.com.

We partner with a different organization each month to provide free tickets to those who could use a little dog therapy such as children's hospitals, senior centers, and other non profits. Our team of pet care professionals and the founder of our company/owner of the dogs (Victoria) believes in the power of dogs for wellness. If you are interested in being a partner for our give back program or would like to inquire about free tickets for a non profit organization, please email us at bookings@theitaliangreyhoundexperience.com

Victoria fell in love with Italian Greyhounds thanks to a sweet, soulful pup named Bruno who regularly visited her dog hotel and daycare, Sit Social. With their delicate frames, expressive eyes, and puppy-like charm that lasts a lifetime, Italian Greyhounds quickly stole her heart — and she knew this would be her next breed. These dogs are loving, gentle, and incredibly affectionate. They're known for their soft, cuddly nature. But beyond their adorable looks, Italian Greyhounds are the perfect companions for a calming, joyful experience. For over a decade, people have told Victoria how lucky she and her team are to spend their days surrounded by dogs. That sparked a simple but powerful idea: what if more people could feel this kind of love, connection, and comfort — even just for an hour? And so, The Italian Greyhound Experience was born: a space designed to elevate mood, reduce stress, and deliver pure canine joy. This isn’t just about cute dogs (though they are very cute) — it’s about creating moments of wellness, peace, and delight through the gentle magic of this beautiful breed.

These dogs are deeply loved and thoughtfully cared for by professionals and dog trainers. Their days are structured to balance play, rest, enrichment, and affection. They are supported by trained pet care professionals who monitor their wellbeing closely and adjust activities to meet their emotional and physical needs. We follow a carefully created schedule for rest, stimulation, playtime guide for proper health. A typical day might include: Morning cuddles and home-cooked, human-grade meals (like turkey, rice, and veggies with proper nutrients and supplements) Supervised play and movement time with the dog daycare pack Dog training sessions focused on confidence-building and positive reinforcement so they feel confident and comfortable in all environments. Structured rest breaks where they pile up together as Iggies do (rest is essential for their physical and emotional wellness) Afternoon enrichment games, fresh air time, or sunbathing Gentle walks on leash or in the big stroller and one-on-one cuddles A soothing bedtime routine with calming music and a darkened room One of the most special parts of their lives? They get to live as a pack—just like dogs were meant to. Unlike many pets who spend long hours alone, these dogs are surrounded by companionship and structure. Their environment is clean, peaceful, and designed with their needs in mind. They are known, seen, and loved as individuals—and their comfort always comes before anything else.

Yes, the dogs came from carefully chosen, reputable breeders across the U.S. Italian Greyhounds are a delicate, ancient breed with specific health and temperament needs. For this reason, we partnered with ethical breeders who prioritize health testing, early socialization, and lifelong commitment to their animals. We deeply respect and support ethical adoption and rescue, and we always encourage others to consider those paths. In our case, creating a healthy, well-socialized pack that could live together peacefully required intentionality and specialized support.

Victoria’s Italian Greyhound Pack are rotated on and off sight for maximum cuddles and adventures.The dogs split their time between their owner’s home and our 5 star cage free dog hotel- designed specifically for their comfort and care. While at the hotel, they receive 24/7 professional pet care, enrichment such as playgroup time, daily walks, special treats, and scheduled naps/rest. They also spend ample time at home with Victoria—cuddling on the couch, walking along the lakefront, relaxing in peaceful home spaces, going on car rides, errands around town, and cozying up with their big sister, Bettie. They live the dream: structure, companionship, and lots of love.

All the dogs came from ethical breeders in the US. Sister pairs from the same litter are Pesto & Polenta, Ravioli & Risotto, Pizza & Breadstick, Spaghetti & Meatball. Biscotti and Gelato are the only two who are not a sister pair from the same litter.

The Italian Greyhound Experience: No. These dogs are not for sale or adoption. They’re permanent family members and part of a carefully formed, deeply bonded pack. They've grown up together and are living happy, structured, love-filled lives with their human, Victoria, and a team of dedicated pet care professionals they view as family.

Please arrive 5 minutes before your start time - no earlier/no later. We do not admit guests until 5 minutes prior to start time. Late entries are not allowed for the safety of the dogs and guests so please plan ample time to arrive. The Belmont red line train stop is a 5 minute walk from us. Parking in the area can be hard to find especially during summer and cubs season. Pay to park is available nearby but not guaranteed so if driving please allot an extra 20 minutes for parking.

We have two options for guests - The Family Friendly Experience - for ages 5+ The Adults Only Experience - for ages 18+

Not quite. The Italian Greyhound Experience is Chicago’s first ticketed cuddle and play experience featuring a pack of gentle, socialized Italian Greyhounds. It’s a private, small-group wellness session—great for dates, families, or anyone in need of a serotonin boost after a long day. Unlike a dog café where guests casually drop in, our sessions are designed to be calm, cozy, and intentional. Guests enjoy scheduled time with the dogs in a peaceful environment, supported by professional pet caregivers who ensure the wellbeing of both humans and pups. Dog cafés are public spaces where guests can purchase food or drinks and interact casually with dogs, often adoptable rescues or resident pets. It’s a come-and-go setting with limited structure. The Italian Greyhound Experience is something entirely different. Our ticketed cuddle sessions are private, small-group events where the focus is on therapeutic, joyful connection with a bonded pack of Italian Greyhounds. Every moment is structured to keep the dogs relaxed and the guest experience special. There’s no food or chaos—just calm, cozy dog time. Science backs up what we all feel instinctively: time with animals reduces stress, lowers blood pressure, and increases feel-good hormones like serotonin. These pups are here to help people slow down, smile more, and feel better. Victoria’s pack of Italian Greyhounds are available with wholesome intent - to help people in need of more love and support in their lives. We also give back with regular donated tickets to children’s hospitals, senior centers, and more.

We are located inside Sit Social at 3221 North Clark Street, Chicago, IL 60657 The Belmont red line train stop is a 5 minute walk from us. Parking in the area can be hard to find especially during summer and cubs season. Pay to park is available nearby but not guaranteed so if driving please allot an extra 20 minutes for parking.

Well trained, leashed, and fully vaccinated Italian greyhounds are welcome to join us. Email bookings@theitaliangreyhoundexperience.com. Our resident girl gang of Iggies is well-socialized and generally very welcoming of fellow floofy friends. That said, to ensure a safe, smooth, and joyful experience for all guests (human and canine), we do have a few important requirements: VACCINATIONS The City of Chicago requires us to have up-to-date vaccination records on file for any visiting dogs. Please email us a copy of your pup’s vaccination records in advance of the event. BEHAVIORAL SAFETY To keep things stress-free and magical, we kindly ask that all visiting pups: Have relieved themselves within 10 minutes prior to the experience Arrive leashed, calm, and friendly with both people and other dogs We want every guest to have a peaceful, cuddle-filled time—so in the rare case of any behavioral issues (anxiety, excessive barking, altercations, etc.), we reserve the right to ask that your pup(s) step out of the event early if needed. We so appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we maintain a cozy, safe environment for everyone involved!

Italian Greyhounds are often known for being sensitive and a little reserved — and that can be true! Like many breeds, they tend to form strong bonds with their people and may take a moment to warm up to new faces. That said, temperament is never one-size-fits-all. A dog’s confidence is shaped through early socialization, consistent handling, and thoughtful exposure — which is something we prioritize every day. Our professional dog trainers and pet care team work closely with the pack to build trust, encourage curiosity, and support each pup’s individual comfort level. Some of our dogs are social butterflies who are ready to cuddle the moment you sit down. Others are more shy and may observe from a distance before deciding to say hello — and we respect that! Every interaction is on the dog’s terms, and we always prioritize their emotional well-being. The Italian Greyhound Experience isn’t about forcing affection — it’s about creating a calming, joyful space where people and dogs can connect naturally and authentically, with plenty of space for quiet moments and gentle companionship.

While the dogs in our care are not rescues, we wholeheartedly support rescue work. We often collaborate with local animal welfare groups through fundraising, donations, and awareness campaigns — and we always encourage our followers to consider adoption when looking for a new pet.

Not at all. Our pack is thriving. Sure, they have their normal puppy moments — like learning to share toys or figuring out play styles with different dogs — but that’s all part of healthy canine development. With professional training, routine enrichment, and one-on-one bonding time, each dog has grown into their own confident personality.

The Italian Greyhound Experience: Our Ethics & Dog Care Philosophy At The Italian Greyhound Experience, our mission is simple: to celebrate the joy, elegance, and emotional connection that dogs bring into our lives — starting with our own beloved pack of Italian Greyhounds. We know that any experience involving animals deserves scrutiny, and we welcome thoughtful questions about how we care for and work with our dogs. Here’s where we stand: 1. Our Dogs Are Family. Not Props. Our ten Italian Greyhounds are not performers, content machines, or marketing tools. They are cherished family members who live in a calm, enriching, dog-first environment. Every decision we make — from their rest schedules to their nutrition to their enrichment routines — is rooted in their long-term wellbeing. 2. We Believe in Responsible Ownership — and That Includes Breeder Choice. We fully support rescue and adoption, and we recognize the heartbreaking number of dogs in shelters today. We also believe responsible breeding has a place in ethical dog ownership when done with transparency, care, and a lifelong commitment to the animal. Our decision to bring home Italian Greyhounds from reputable breeders came from years of research, breed experience, and a desire to meet very specific physical and emotional needs. This breed is delicate, anxious, and often misunderstood — and we made a long-term commitment to providing them with the structure, companionship, and stability they require. We don’t believe ethical ownership is one-size-fits-all. We do believe it requires education, dedication, and deep respect for the animal. 3. We Center Dog Wellness in Everything We Do. Our dogs' physical, emotional, and social health drives every part of our business. From the lighting and layout of their home environment to their grooming routines and vet partnerships, we create systems that prioritize calm, comfort, and safety. Guests who visit The Italian Greyhound Experience see that we protect their space, energy, and agency. Not all dogs are present at all times. They are never forced to participate in anything. We honor their boundaries. 4. We Invite Accountability and Growth. We’re not perfect, but we care deeply. We believe that loving dogs means being open to conversation, evolution, and education. We’re committed to growing a business rooted in respect — for animals, for people, and for the communities we serve. We know our work won’t be for everyone. But if you're curious, open-hearted, and want to see firsthand how joy and care can coexist in a dog-centered space, we invite you to visit us. Thank you for caring. Thank you for asking. And thank you for holding space for nuanced conversations about animal welfare, love, and responsibility. With gratitude, Victoria & The Iggy Girls The Italian Greyhound Experience

Not at all. The Italian Greyhound Experience was built around the lives of these dogs — not the other way around. Every piece of content, every event, and every guest interaction is designed to prioritize their well-being and boundaries. If they don’t want to participate, they don’t. Period.

Absolutely. These dogs are not just part of the experience — they are the heart of it. They receive daily enrichment, home-cooked meals, professional training, medical care, and round-the-clock love from an experienced pet care team. Their health, happiness, and comfort come first, always.

These dogs are deeply loved and thoughtfully cared for by professionals and dog trainers. Their days are structured to balance play, rest, enrichment, and affection. They are supported by trained pet care professionals who monitor their wellbeing closely and adjust activities to meet their emotional and physical needs. We follow a carefully created schedule for rest, stimulation, playtime guide for proper health. A typical day might include: Morning cuddles and home-cooked, human-grade meals (like turkey, rice, and veggies with proper nutrients and supplements) Supervised play and movement time with the dog daycare pack Dog training sessions focused on confidence-building and positive reinforcement so they feel confident and comfortable in all environments. Structured rest breaks where they pile up together as Iggies do (rest is essential for their physical and emotional wellness) Afternoon enrichment games, fresh air time, or sunbathing Gentle walks on leash or in the big stroller and one-on-one cuddles A soothing bedtime routine with calming music and a darkened room One of the most special parts of their lives? They get to live as a pack—just like dogs were meant to. Unlike many pets who spend long hours alone, these dogs are surrounded by companionship and structure. Their environment is clean, peaceful, and designed with their needs in mind. They are known, seen, and loved as individuals—and their comfort always comes before anything else.

Great question — and one we take seriously. “Littermate syndrome” is a widely debated topic in the canine behavior world. While some trainers caution against raising siblings due to potential behavioral challenges, many professionals agree that with the right structure, training, and socialization, puppies can thrive together.

Not at all. The Italian Greyhound Experience is a wellness-driven, immersive space rooted in connection — between humans and dogs. Our mission is to celebrate the joy and companionship dogs bring into our lives, in a way that centers their needs just as much as the guests'.

We deeply respect the rescue community and support adopt-don’t-shop values. That said, these dogs were carefully sourced from ethical, responsible breeders who prioritize health and temperament. As a long-time pet care professional running a luxury pet care company for over 13 years, our founder made intentional choices to build a safe, balanced pack that could live and thrive together long-term.

This is a common myth, but it’s not a rule. While some believe female dogs are more prone to conflict, the truth is that harmony in any pack comes down to temperament, structure, training, and leadership — not being male/female. Our girls are thriving together because they were carefully matched, thoughtfully raised, and supported with professional training and daily enrichment. They’re not just coexisting — they’re bonded, playful, and each developing into confident individuals with their own personalities. Sure, they have the occasional “that’s-my-bed” moment (who doesn’t?), but we see those as normal social learning opportunities — not red flags. With the right environment and guidance, any group of dogs — male, female, or mixed — can live safely and happily together.