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Segugio Italiano
Hound breed from Italy
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Segugio Italiano
The Segugio Italiano is a medium-sized hound breed from Italy, known for its intelligence, energy, loyalty, alertness, determination, and eagerness to please. It comes in two coat types: shorthaired and wirehaired. The breed is described as an ancient Italian scenthound with a noble appearance and athletic build, bred for speed and endurance in hunting. Its exceptional scenting ability is a hallmark. Individual temperaments may vary, so not every dog will display all traits equally.
Quick facts
Segugio Italiano at a glance
Sizemedium
Breed groupHound
OriginItaly
Lifespan10â14 years
Male weight18â28 kilogram
Female weight18â28 kilogram
Male height52â60 centimetre
Female height52â60 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Segugio Italiano is descended from ancient hounds of Egypt and Phoenicia and has existed in Italy for centuries. The breed was refined during the Renaissance and has long been prized by Italian hunters for its stamina, speed, and exceptional scenting ability in hunting hare and wild boar. Its history is rooted in Italy, but specific dates or events are not documented in the available facts. As an ancient breed, the Segugio Italiano has been developed over time for its hunting prowess. The breed's two coat varietiesâshorthaired (pelo raso) and wirehaired (pelo forte)âreflect adaptations to different terrains and climates. While its origins are ancient, the exact timeline of its development remains uncertain based on the supplied information.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
18â28 kilogramAdult weight52â60 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesShorthaired, WirehairedCoat colorsPendingRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Intelligentenergeticloyalalertdeterminedeager to please
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1â5 methodologyDaily care profile
Higher daily exercise demand
Typically responsive to training
Lower coat-maintenance demand
Moderate compared with other breeds
Family suitability
Home and household fit
Supervise every dogâchild interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Climate suitability
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
Health overview
Veterinary sources requiredHealth considerations
No Segugio Italiano-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Veterinary disclaimer: This profile is educational and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian.
Feeding overview
Nutrition and feeding
Research in progress
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Decision support
Potential advantages and challenges
Potential advantages
- Typically responsive to consistent training.Supported by trainabilityScore: 4
- Commonly described as loyal.Supported by temperaments.loyal: true
Potential challenges
- Higher daily exercise and enrichment needs may not suit every household.Supported by energyScore: 4
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Growth chart
Segugio Italiano puppy growth
Modeled estimates
Open interactive chart From puppy weight to adult size
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
Adult male weight18â28 kilogramAdult female weight18â28 kilogramGrowth modeladult-range-size-model-v1
Preview only. Open the complete chart to adjust age, current weight and measurement units.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
What is the size and lifespan of a Segugio Italiano?
The Segugio Italiano is a medium-sized breed. Estimated adult height ranges from 52 to 60 cm for both males and females, and estimated adult weight ranges from 18 to 28 kg for both sexes. The estimated lifespan is 10 to 14 years. These are modelled estimates, so individual dogs may vary.
What is the temperament of a Segugio Italiano?
The breed is described as intelligent, energetic, loyal, alert, determined, and eager to please. However, individual dogs may not display all these traits, and temperament can vary. As a hound, it may have strong instincts for scenting and chasing.
How much exercise does a Segugio Italiano need?
The breed has a high energy level (score 4 out of 5), indicating a need for regular, vigorous exercise. It was historically bred for hunting with stamina and speed, so daily physical activity is important. Without sufficient exercise, it may become restless.
What are the grooming requirements for a Segugio Italiano?
Grooming needs are low (score 2 out of 5). The breed has two coat types: shorthaired and wirehaired. Both likely require minimal brushing, though wirehaired coats may need occasional stripping. Shedding is moderate (score 3 out of 5).
Is the Segugio Italiano suitable for apartment living?
The breed has a low suitability for apartments (score 2 out of 5). Its high energy and need for space make it better suited to homes with a yard or access to open areas. Apartment dwellers would need to provide ample outdoor exercise.
How does the Segugio Italiano get along with children and other dogs?
Child suitability is moderate (score 3 out of 5), and dog compatibility is also moderate (score 3 out of 5). While some individuals may be good with children and other dogs, early socialization and supervision are recommended. Individual temperament varies.
Where does the Segugio Italiano originate from?
The breed originates from Italy. It is descended from ancient hounds of Egypt and Phoenicia and has been present in Italy for centuries, refined during the Renaissance for hunting hare and wild boar.
Data transparency
â Published · VerifiedSources and review status
APIThe Dog API âThe Dog API Terms of Service (effective 2023-07-01)
VETERINARY SOURCEWSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines and Toolkit âCopyright; factual citation and original summary only
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.