Origin and History

The Segugio Italiano, an ancient Italian scenthound, has origins that remain shrouded in mystery, but are believed to be ancient, with some historians tracing its lineage back to the time of Ancient Rome. The breed is thought to be closely related to the Segugio Maremmano and Segugio dell'Appennino, other Italian scent hound breeds. Evidence of dogs similar to the Segugio Italiano can be found in seventh-century Lombard necropolis at Povegliano in Verona, with skeletons showing morphological similarities. The breed was prominently featured in Italian Renaissance hunts, where it was used alongside hunt servants and followers mounted on horseback. The Segugio Italiano a Pelo Forte, or Italian Rough-haired Segugio, was recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale in 1956, and by 2015, there were 1106 registrations in the national stud-book.

In the early 20th century, the breed faced a significant challenge with the formation of the Società Italiana Amatori del Segugio e del Cane da Tana in 1920, which was dissolved in 1939 due to restrictive legislation passed by the Fascist government. The breed was at risk of disappearing by the end of World War II, but a new breed society, the Società Italiana Pro Segugio, was formed in 1947, helping to revitalize the breed. The breed standard was revised by cynologist Giuseppe Solaro, and in 1948, there were 120 new registrations. This period of revitalization was crucial for the breed's survival, as it faced the threat of extinction.

Historically, the Segugio Italiano has been bred for hunting hare and boar, showcasing its speed, endurance, and exceptional scenting ability. The breed's keen sense of smell and determination in tracking game have made it a valuable asset in the field, capable of staying in the field for up to twelve hours without a break. This dedication to its hunting role has shaped the breed's physical and temperamental characteristics.

Breed Characteristics

The Segugio Italiano is a medium-sized dog with a noble appearance and an athletic build. Males typically stand at 52-60 cm in height at the withers, while females are about 2 cm shorter. The body is approximately square in shape when viewed from the side, with a length that matches the height at the withers. The Segugio Italiano comes in two coat varieties: shorthaired (pelo raso) and wirehaired (pelo forte). The wirehaired variety, known as the Segugio Italiano a Pelo Forte, has a coarse and rough coat that is no more than 5 cm long, making it particularly suitable for hunting in cooler mountainous areas. Recognized coat colors include any shade of fawn, from deep fox-red to very pale, as well as black-and-tan, with some white markings on the face and chest being tolerated.

The Segugio Italiano displays characteristics of both scent hounds and sight hounds. It has the long legs, tucked-up loins, and roached back typical of a sight hound, while the head features scent hound characteristics, including low-set pendulous ears. The breed has a long, tapering muzzle with thin lips that are not pendulous, and a long, tapered tail that is usually carried high when hunting, making it easy to see where the dog is. These physical traits contribute to the Segugio Italiano's agility and hunting efficiency.

Temperament and Behavior

The Segugio Italiano is known for its intelligent and energetic temperament. Loyal and alert, this breed is eager to please and has a determined nature. Its high energy level requires a home that can provide ample exercise and mental stimulation. While not the most friendly towards strangers, the Segugio Italiano can be a great companion for those who appreciate a dog with a strong sense of purpose and a keen hunting instinct. The breed's loyalty and alertness make it an excellent choice for families looking for a dog that can be both a companion and a working partner.

Due to its hunting background, the Segugio Italiano is driven and focused when on a scent trail, displaying a single-minded dedication to following it. This can sometimes make it challenging to redirect its attention when not in hunting mode.

Health and Genetic Considerations

The Segugio Italiano is a generally healthy breed, with a life span of 10-14 years. Genetic comparisons have found it to be almost indistinguishable from the Segugio Italiano a Pelo Raso, and also genetically close to the Segugio Maremmano and Segugio dell'Appennino. This genetic similarity suggests a shared ancestry and common health risks among these breeds.

Given its genetic similarities to other scent hound breeds, the Segugio Italiano may be at risk of conditions such as hip dysplasia, which can cause pain and mobility issues. This condition is a concern for many large breed dogs and can be mitigated through proper nutrition, exercise, and veterinary care.

Training and Exercise Needs

The Segugio Italiano requires a significant amount of exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. The breed's intelligence and enthusiasm for work make it highly trainable, but it requires a firm and consistent training approach.

Given its hunting instincts, the Segugio Italiano may have a strong prey drive, which can make it challenging to manage in a home with small animals. This drive is a natural part of the breed's heritage and must be managed through proper training and socialization. Responsible owners should be prepared to invest time and effort into managing this aspect of the Segugio Italiano's behavior.

Living with a Segugio Italiano

Living with a Segugio Italiano requires a commitment to providing a suitable environment that meets its physical and emotional needs. This breed is best suited for active families or individuals who can provide ample exercise and mental stimulation.

While the breed is not considered hypoallergenic, it may be a suitable choice for those with mild allergies.

Buying a Segugio Italiano

Responsible breeders will have conducted health clearances for common genetic conditions, such as hip dysplasia and epilepsy, to ensure the puppy's health and longevity.

It is not uncommon for a Segugio Italiano puppy to cost several thousand dollars. Be wary of breeders who offer puppies at significantly lower prices, as this may indicate substandard breeding practices or a lack of health screenings. The cost of a Segugio Italiano reflects the breed's rarity, its health and genetic screening requirements, and the time and effort involved in breeding and raising the dogs.

Consider the long-term costs of owning a Segugio Italiano, including veterinary care, grooming, and training. The breed's high energy level and potential for health issues can lead to increased veterinary bills. Responsible ownership involves planning for these costs and ensuring the dog receives the care it needs throughout its life.