Segugio Italiano
Quick Summary
Athletic and friendly scent hound ideal for active owners. Excels in tracking activities. Best suited for homes with space and time for exercise. Key consideration: strong hunting instincts.
Contents
Weight Range
40-60 lbs
♂ Male: 40-60 lbs
♀ Female: 40-60 lbs
Height Range
48-58 inches
♂ Male: 19-23"
♀ Female: 19-23"
Life Expectancy
11-13 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #85
Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Foundation Stock Service
Originally bred for Developed in Italy's mountainous regions during the medieval period as a specialized scent hound for tracking game
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | 19"-23" |
| Female Height | 19"-23" |
| Male Weight | 40-60 lbs |
| Female Weight | 40-60 lbs |
| Coat Length | 1/5 |
| Drooling Level | 2/5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
Initial costs include $800-1500 for purchase, plus setup expenses. Monthly costs average $100-150 for food and basic care. Annual veterinary expenses typically range $500-800 for routine care.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
Displays keen intelligence and eager-to-please attitude, making training enjoyable. Shows high energy levels and strong hunting instincts. Generally friendly with people and excellent with other dogs, though may chase smaller animals.
Social Needs
Highly social breed requiring regular human companionship and interaction with other dogs. Can become anxious if left alone for extended periods. Benefits from family inclusion and canine companionship.
Breed Overview
Segugio Italiano is a medium-sized scent hound characterized by a lean, athletic build and distinctive long ears. Their short, dense coat comes in solid fawn or black-and-tan. Distinguished by keen intelligence and remarkable stamina, these dogs showcase a balanced temperament combining eagerness to work with gentle companionship. Their refined head structure, deep chest, and powerful legs reflect their heritage as skilled hunting companions.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Excellent tracking abilities
- ✓ Friendly temperament
- ✓ Low grooming needs
- ✓ Good with other dogs
Cons
- ✗ Strong prey drive
- ✗ Requires extensive exercise
- ✗ Can be vocal
- ✗ May be stubborn
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Friendly, Intelligent, Eager to Please |
| Energy Level | |
| Trainability | Eager to Please |
| Grooming Needs | Weekly Brushing |
| Shedding | Seasonal |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Requires 60-90 minutes of daily exercise including scent work, long walks, and running. High-intensity activities should be combined with mental stimulation through tracking games. Best exercised in secure areas due to strong hunting instincts.
Diet & Nutrition
Requires 2-3 cups of high-quality dry food daily, divided into two meals. Diet should support high energy needs and maintain lean muscle mass. Special attention to portion control prevents weight gain.
Feed 2-3 cups premium dry food daily, split into two meals. Choose protein-rich formulas supporting high energy needs. Monitor weight and adjust portions accordingly. Fresh water always available.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
Adapts well to suburban or rural settings with ample space for exercise. Requires secure fencing due to hunting instincts. Thrives in moderate climates but can adjust to various weather conditions.
Requires minimum yard space of 500 square feet. Thrives in homes with secure fencing and access to outdoor areas. Can adapt to suburban living with adequate exercise and enrichment activities.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
Hunting companions from medieval Italy, these hounds developed in isolated mountain regions where their exceptional scenting abilities and stamina were crucial for tracking game across challenging terrain. Their precise tracking skills earned them high regard.
Historical Purpose
Developed in Italy's mountainous regions during the medieval period as a specialized scent hound for tracking game. Valued for exceptional stamina and precise tracking abilities.
Fun Fact
Their exceptional nose can distinguish individual scent particles at concentrations as low as one part per trillion!
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Needs secure fencing due to hunting instincts. Regular ear cleaning essential. Exercise requirements must be met to prevent behavioral issues.