Italian Hound Dog Breed: Size, Health, Price & Personality

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General Introduction of the Breed

The Italian Hound, known as “Segugio Italiano” in its native Italy, is a historic breed used primarily for hunting. It has been bred for centuries in Italy, where it was developed to track game using its keen sense of smell.

This breed is highly valued for its endurance and speed, making it a popular choice for hunters since ancient Roman times. Over the years, it has remained a respected scenthound in Italy and beyond.

Weight	18-28 kg (40-62 lbs)
Lifespan	12-14 years
Diet	Balanced diet, high-quality dry kibble, wet food, or raw diet. Avoid processed human foods, chocolate, grapes, onions, and excessive fat.
Care	Significant outdoor activity, long walks, running, and play sessions. Weekly grooming to remove dead hair. Regular hygiene care, such as nail trimming, ear cleaning, and dental hygiene.
Health	Generally healthy, but may be prone to hip dysplasia and ear infections. Regular vet checkups and vaccinations are important.
Color	Fawn, black and tan, or a mix of these shades.
Nature	Highly intelligent and quick to learn, but has a strong independent streak. Energetic and enjoys outdoor activities. Forms strong bonds with owners but can be reserved with strangers.
Price	Generally ranges from $600 to $1,500.

Physical Characteristics

The Italian Hound is a medium-sized breed. Males typically stand between 52-58 cm (20-23 inches) at the shoulder, while females range from 48-56 cm (19-22 inches). Their weight usually falls between 18-28 kg (40-62 pounds).

The breed has a short, dense coat that comes in a variety of colors, including fawn, black and tan, or a mix of these shades.

They have almond-shaped eyes, often ranging in shades of brown. Their ears are long and drooping, complementing their elegant facial features. Their tails are of medium length, usually carried slightly curved.

A distinctive characteristic of the breed is its lean, athletic build, suited for endurance running and tracking.

Personality and Temperament

The Italian Hound is highly intelligent and quick to learn, making it an adaptable companion. However, it has a strong independent streak, often requiring patient training.

Being an active breed, it has high energy levels and enjoys outdoor activities. Daily exercise is essential to keep it happy and well-balanced.

These dogs form strong bonds with their owners but are not overly dependent. While affectionate, they can also be reserved with strangers.

Due to their hunting instincts, they may chase small animals, though they generally get along well with children and other dogs when properly socialized.

The breed is sensitive to environmental changes and thrives best with a structured routine.

Care and Maintenance Requirements

This breed requires a significant amount of outdoor activity and enjoys long walks, running, and play sessions. Without adequate exercise, it may develop behavioral issues.

Although they can adapt to apartment living, they do best in homes with access to outdoor space where they can move around freely.

Grooming needs are minimal due to their short coat. Weekly brushing is usually enough to remove dead hair and keep their coat healthy.

Italian Hounds are sensitive to extreme weather; they may need a coat in winter and shade in hot summer months.

Regular hygiene care, such as nail trimming, ear cleaning, and dental hygiene, is necessary to maintain their overall health.

Diet and Nutrition

A balanced diet is essential for the Italian Hound’s well-being. High-quality dry kibble, wet food, or a raw diet can be suitable options.

This breed does not have specific dietary restrictions but benefits from protein-rich meals to support its active lifestyle.

Foods to avoid include processed human foods, chocolate, grapes, onions, and excessive fat.

Ideal feeding schedules include two meals per day, with portion sizes adjusted based on activity level and age.

Health and Common Medical Issues

Italian Hounds are generally healthy but may be prone to certain hereditary conditions. Some common issues include hip dysplasia and ear infections due to their droopy ears.

Regular vet checkups and vaccinations are important to ensure long-term health.

The breed has an average lifespan of 12-14 years.

Training and Behavior Management

Italian Hounds are trainable but require consistency and patience. Their independent nature means they benefit from positive reinforcement techniques.

Early socialization is important to ensure they develop into well-balanced and obedient dogs.

Since they are hunting dogs, recall training is essential to prevent them from wandering off when unleashed.

Interaction with Other Animals and Humans

This breed is generally good with children, especially when raised with them. However, due to their prey drive, supervision is recommended around small pets.

They do well in families as well as with individuals who can provide sufficient activity and companionship.

Price and Availability

The price of an Italian Hound varies based on lineage and breeder reputation, generally ranging from $600 to $1,500.

It is advisable to adopt from reputable breeders or shelters to ensure ethical breeding practices and good health.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

The Italian Hound is a wonderful breed for active individuals or families who can meet its exercise and training needs.

It is an excellent hunting companion but also makes a loyal pet when given the proper care.

Before adopting, potential owners should consider the breed’s need for exercise, training, and space.

FAQ

What is the average lifespan of an Italian Hound?

The average lifespan is 12-14 years.

What type of diet is recommended for an Italian Hound?

A balanced diet with high-quality dry kibble, wet food, or a raw diet. Avoid processed human foods.

How much exercise does an Italian Hound need?

Significant outdoor activity, including long walks, running, and play sessions, is essential.

Are Italian Hounds good with children and other pets?

Yes, they are generally good with children and other dogs when properly socialized. However, supervision is recommended around small pets due to their prey drive.