The Segugio Italiano is a medium-sized hound with a lean, muscular build, showcasing an elegant yet powerful appearance. It comes in two coat varieties: smooth and wire-haired.

Medium

18.5-23 inches (male), 17-22 inches (female)

40-62 pounds

Two varieties - smooth-haired (a pelo raso) and wire-haired (a pelo forte)

Solid fawn, ranging from reddish fawn to wheaten; black and tan

Long and narrow, with a slightly arched skull

Dark, almond-shaped, with an intelligent expression

Long, pendant, and set low

Thin and tapering, carried low when relaxed, raised when alert

The Segugio Italiano is known for its gentle, affectionate, and devoted nature, making it a loving companion. They are highly intelligent and eager to please, though sometimes independent.

Forms strong bonds with its family and enjoys close contact.

Highly trainable with a quick mind, but can be independent.

Generally good-natured and patient, making them suitable for families.

Makes a good watchdog, barking to alert owners to anything unusual.

Possesses significant stamina, requiring regular physical and mental activity.

Can be prone to barking or baying, especially when excited or on a scent.

The Segugio Italiano is best suited for active individuals or families who can provide ample exercise and mental stimulation. They thrive in environments where they can use their natural scenting abilities.

Generally healthy breed.

May be prone to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods.

The ideal owner for a Segugio Italiano is someone who is active, patient, and willing to engage in consistent training and provide plenty of opportunities for the dog to use its natural instincts. A home with a securely fenced yard is highly recommended.

Caring for a Segugio Italiano involves moderate grooming, a balanced diet, and providing a stimulating living environment. Both coat types have relatively straightforward grooming needs.

Smooth-haired variety requires minimal grooming; wire-haired variety needs occasional brushing and stripping.

Only when necessary, to avoid drying out their skin.

High-quality dog food appropriate for their age, size, and activity level.

Two meals a day are recommended to prevent bloat.

Adaptable to various living situations, provided their exercise needs are met; a home with a secure yard is ideal.

Segugi Italiani are intelligent but can be independent thinkers, requiring patient and consistent training. They need substantial daily exercise to satisfy their hunting instincts and high energy levels.

Segugi Italiani are intelligent and capable of learning quickly, but their independent nature requires a firm and consistent approach. Positive reinforcement methods, such as treats and praise, work best. Early socialization and obedience training are crucial to manage their hunting instincts and potential for vocalization.

This breed has high exercise needs due to its hunting heritage. Daily long walks, runs, or hikes are essential. Providing opportunities for them to use their scenting abilities, such as through tracking games or scent work, can be mentally stimulating. A secure, fenced yard is recommended, as they may follow scents.

Establish clear rules and stick to them from puppyhood.

Use treats, praise, and play to motivate learning.

Expose them to various people, dogs, and environments early on.

Engage their natural scenting abilities with games and activities.

Ensure a secure yard to prevent them from following scents and wandering off.

The Segugio Italiano is generally a healthy breed, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues. Responsible breeding practices can help minimize these risks.

A genetic condition where the hip joint doesn't develop properly, leading to arthritis.

Similar to hip dysplasia, but affecting the elbow joint.

A life-threatening condition where the stomach twists, trapping gas and cutting off blood supply.

Prone due to their long, floppy ears, which can trap moisture.

The Segugio Italiano's origins are believed to date back to ancient times, with ancestors potentially including Phoenician trading dogs and Celtic hounds. Developed in Italy, these dogs were meticulously bred for their scent-tracking prowess, primarily used for hunting wild boar and hare across varied terrains. The breed's keen sense of smell and endurance made it invaluable to Italian hunters. While not as widely recognized internationally as some other breeds, the Segugio Italiano has maintained a dedicated following in Italy. The two varieties, smooth-haired and wire-haired, were officially recognized by the Italian Kennel Club (ENCI) and later by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI).

Yes, when properly socialized, they are generally good with children and can be very patient and gentle.

They require significant daily exercise, including long walks, runs, or hikes, and ideally, activities that engage their scenting abilities.

They can be vocal, especially when excited or following a scent. Training can help manage excessive barking.

They are intelligent and trainable, but their independent nature requires consistent, positive reinforcement-based training.

The main difference is the coat texture. The smooth-haired variety has a short, dense coat, while the wire-haired variety has a rough, wiry coat that requires occasional stripping.

They generally get along well with other dogs, especially if socialized from a young age.

Yes, they have a strong hunting instinct and may chase small animals. Secure fencing and leash walks are important.

The smooth-haired variety needs minimal grooming, while the wire-haired variety requires occasional brushing and stripping.

They can adapt to apartment living if their exercise needs are met, but a house with a securely fenced yard is ideal.

Look for breed-specific rescues or reputable breeders who specialize in Segugi Italiani. Adoption is a great way to give a home to a dog in need.