Segugio Italiano (Short/smooth coat)

A medium-sized hound, with adult dogs standing at 52-59cm and females 48-56cm, the Segugio Italiano comes in two coat types – rough or smooth – and a range of colours (black/tan and any shade from red to wheaten). He is square-shaped and light in structure – an athletic, rather than heavy, hound. The approximate weight range of the adult Segugio is 20-23kg.

The need-to-know

Dog suitable for owners with some experience
Some training required
Enjoys active walks
Enjoys walking an hour a day
Large dog
Some drool
Requires grooming once a week
Non hypoallergenic breed
Chatty and vocal dog
Not a guard dog
May require training to live with other pets
May require training to live with kids

Personality

The Segugio Italiano has keen hunting instincts and loves to follow his nose. Usually quiet and reserved, he becomes highly excited and vocal when following a scent. A gentle, good-tempered and loving dog, this high-energy dog needs a very active home.

History and Origins

An ancient breed, possibly descending from the hounds of ancient Egypt, the Segugio Italiano dog breed has been used for flushing boar in his native country for centuries, and features in many Italian art works from the Renaissance. It's thought that the Mastiff was added to the mix of scent and sight hound breeding that contributed to his development, giving the dog boldness as well as the ability to hunt by eye and nose. Today, the Segugio Italiano is primarily a hunting dog, flushing hare.

Nutrition and Feeding

Large breed dogs, as well as having large appetites, benefit from a different balance of nutrients including minerals and vitamins compared to smaller-breed dogs. The Segugio is prone to bloating and stomach problems; smaller, more frequent meals can help minimise this risk.

Exercise

This hound needs two hours and more of exercise each day. He has a great deal of energy and stamina and can follow his nose for hours! Do ensure you counteract any 'hound deafness' with a solid recall, and give him scenting games to allow him to use his nose.

Other Information

Health and common issues

The Segugio Italiano dog is a robust breed with no widely recognised specific health concerns.

Best family dog breeds

While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children , all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.