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Segugio Italiano short hair

Italian Hound

Description

The Italian Segugio is an old breed whose likeness is to be found in ancient sculptures and in Italian Renaissance works of art. Also known as the Segugio Italiano and Italian Hound it is believed to have developed in Italy from Phoenician sight-hounds and the Celtic hounds of southern Gaul. The addition of Mastiff blood to the lithe sight-hound stock produced a dog of more substance with the ability to work quarry by scent as well as sight. Wild boar were their traditional target but the end of the great hunts saw the numbers of Italan Segugio decline. Interest in the breed was revived in the 20th century and careful breeding built up the numbers. The Segugio is now extremely popular in Italy both for hunting on a variety of game and as a companion.The breed remains rare and relatively unknown outside its native land.

Character

This is a kind, affectionate breed who can be a most rewarding companion both for families and individuals. Centuries of close association with people has resulted in a sociable and even-tempered dog who is reliable with children and gets along well with other dogs. As with most hounds they thrive on companionship and enjoy the comforts of home. These dogs need to be regarded as one of the family and not shut out in the yard or left alone for long periods of time. If deprived of company and interaction with people they will become bored and miserable, with consequent behavioural problems such as digging, escape attempts and nuisance barking. They are quiet indoors but make good watchdogs who will announce the presence of strangers. Yards need to be securely fenced as the breed has a strong hunting instinct which is triggered by both the sight and scent of 'prey' which they will pursue with determination. The Segugio is a gentle, sensitive dog who will be distressed by tensions and loud arguments within the home and will be particularly upset should they become the focus of ones anger.

Exercise

The Italian Segugio require a considerable amount of exercise. In their native environment, performing the task for which they have been bred for centuries,they can hunt for twelve hours a day, day after day, across rugged terrain and through thick cover. As a companion dog they should have long walks every day in order to keep them physically fit and to keep their minds alert and active. Caution is needed with off-lead exercise in case the drive to hunt should make them wander, but if a safe area can be found the opportunity to gallop around and investigate interesting scents is exciting for them. The canine sport of tracking is an excellent way to provide an outlet for their energy, to engage the mind, and to allow them to use their superb nose. They also enjoy swimming and retrieving .

Training

Obedience training to at least basic level should start at a young age. The Segugio is an intelligent dog, happy to learn and eager to please. They can be a little stubborn at times, particularly if they see no point in what is being asked, but this can be overcome by keeping training sessions short, fun and interesting. Patience, consistency and quiet firmness will help them quickly learn what is required and what is inappropriate. Harsh methods which rely on strong physical and verbal corrections are unnecessary and have no place in this breeds training. This gentle dog should be trained in a considerate manner with rewards of treats and/or genuine praise for good efforts and a job well done. Socialization should also be started as early in the pup's life as possible. By introducing them to many different people, dogs, new sights and sounds he will grow to be a well-mannered, sensible, friendly adult dog.

Faults

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree. Note *** Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum.