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.