Is the Segugio Italiano Dog Breed Right for You?

 

Let Me Tell You About the Segugio Italiano Dog Breed

The Segugio Italiano is a fascinating and ancient scenthound breed from Italy—one that blends elegance, endurance, and a surprisingly gentle nature. You’ll find both short-haired (a Pelo Raso) and wire-haired (a Pelo Forte) varieties, each with a lean, athletic build and a keen nose for tracking game.

🐾 Key Traits

• Size: Medium; males stand 20–24 inches tall and weigh 44–62 lbs, females slightly smaller

• Coat: Either short and smooth or rough and coarse; colors range from deep red-fawn to pale fawn, sometimes black-and-tan

• Temperament: Intelligent, trainable, vigilant, and friendly. They’re known to be gentle with families and sociable with other dogs

• Energy Level: High. These dogs were bred to hunt all day, so they thrive with plenty of exercise and mental stimulation

🧬 History & Origins

This breed may date back to pre-Roman times, with possible ties to ancient Egyptian hounds. Statues of Diana the Huntress in Roman art depict dogs resembling the Segugio Italiano. It’s one of Italy’s most beloved breeds, especially popular for hunting hare and wild boar.

🏡 Ideal Home

• Active families or individuals

• Homes with yards

• Owners who appreciate a dog with both working drive and couch-potato charm

🧠 Training Tips

They’re smart and eager to please, but like many scent hounds, they can be independent. Early training and socialization are key. They may howl, so teaching a “quiet” command can be helpful.

🐕 Hypoallergenic?

Not considered hypoallergenic, but their short or wiry coats shed moderately. Regular grooming helps manage allergens, though they may not be ideal for highly sensitive households.

references:  www.petguide.com, www.en.wikipedia.org, www.akc.org