what they are likeSegugio dell'Appennino temperament
A keen, focused hunting hound bred to follow hare by scent over steep ground. It is used to working with other dogs and with its handler in the field.1
how to spot oneSegugio dell'Appennino coat and colours
smooth or rough
A light, compact little hound made for mountain work. It comes in two coat varieties: a smooth coat no longer than about 2 cm, and a rough coat of 2 to 5 cm with a thick undercoat.1
Coloursblack and tanfawnhare greysooty (charbonné)white markings on legs, chest, neck, muzzle, forehead or tail tip allowed1
a typical week and yearThe care rhythm
A typical home-care rhythm for a Segugio dell'Appennino. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
Brushingevery week
Bathevery 8 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
Ear checkFloppy ears trap moisture, so check and dry themevery week
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 8every year
by countryIs the Segugio dell'Appennino legal where you live?
No breed-specific rule names the Segugio dell'Appennino in the 44 countries we check. General dangerous-dog laws still apply everywhere, and some cities keep their own lists.
Checked 2026-11-05. Laws change and local rules exist; this is a sourced overview, not legal advice.
how busy a day looksSegugio dell'Appennino exercise needs
High. Bred to track hare for long spells in the mountains, so it needs plenty of daily exercise and scent-based activity.1
the hands-on bitsSegugio dell'Appennino grooming and care
Low to moderate. The smooth coat needs only an occasional brush; the rough coat with its dense undercoat benefits from regular brushing.1
where they are happiestSegugio dell'Appennino at home
Best suited to an active, rural or outdoorsy home with secure outdoor space and regular access to walks or trails.1
who they like aroundSegugio dell'Appennino with people and other pets
Traditionally hunts together with other hounds in pairs or small packs, so it is used to canine company.1
where it all beganSegugio dell'Appennino history
This small Italian scent hound was first set apart from other segugio types in an 1882 hunting publication, La Caccia Illustrata. A breed standard followed in 2005, national recognition came later, and the FCI has accepted it on a provisional basis.12
for the dinner tableFun facts
1
It was first described as a distinct type back in 1882, in the Italian magazine La Caccia Illustrata.1
2
A 2015 genetic study found no significant genetic distance between it and the Segugio Maremmano.1
3
Italian registrations ran at roughly 200 to 400 puppies a year between 2013 and 2022.1
4
Although bred for hare, it is also used on wild boar.1
the story behind itWhere the name comes from
The breed name 'Segugio dell'Appennino' translates to 'Hound of the Apennines,' referring to the Apennine mountain range in Italy where the breed was developed and traditionally used for hunting hare and other game.3
I wake to the smell of damp earth and the sound of birds stirring. My human clips on my lead and we head for the mountain path. The air is crisp, and my nose fills with the scent of rabbit and wild herbs. I pull ahead, tracking a trail over rocks and through thickets. My pack mates join later, and we work together, voices echoing through the valley. By midday, I rest on a sunny patch of grass, tail thumping. Back home, I curl at my human's feet, tired and happy. It's a good day.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
the official bitsRecognised by
ENCI (Italy)
Breed standard drawn up in 2005; full national recognition reported as 2010 (English Wikipedia) or June 2023 (Italian Wikipedia)1
ENCI (Italy)
Italian Wikipedia gives official ENCI recognition in June 2023 after a 2005 standard2
FCI
Provisionally accepted in 2026 (Group 6, scent hounds), per English Wikipedia1
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
the things everyone asksOwner questions
How often should I feed my Segugio dell'Appennino, and at what times?
Adult Segugio dell'Appennino should be fed at least two meals a day, ideally in the morning and evening. Puppies need three to four smaller meals. For exact amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.4
What should a Segugio dell'Appennino eat, and which foods are dangerous?
Feed your Segugio a high-quality dog food suitable for an active breed. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts. Always avoid these and consult your vet for a complete list.5
How often should I bathe a Segugio dell'Appennino?
Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every 56 days, which is about every two months. If your dog gets very dirty or has skin issues, you can bathe more often, but at least once every three months is fine.6Pet Wiki plan
How often does a Segugio dell'Appennino need brushing?
Brush your Segugio weekly to keep its coat healthy. The smooth coat needs only occasional brushing, while the rough coat benefits from more regular brushing to manage the dense undercoat.16Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Segugio dell'Appennino's nails, and how often?
Trim nails every 28 days, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick. If you're unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for a demonstration.6Pet Wiki plan
How much exercise does a Segugio dell'Appennino need?
This breed needs plenty of daily exercise and scent-based activity, as it was bred to track hare for long spells. Pet Wiki suggests daily walks and play. An active, rural home with secure outdoor space is ideal.1Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Segugio dell'Appennino's teeth and ears?
Brush your dog's teeth daily if possible, or at least two to three times a week, using a dog-safe toothpaste. Check ears weekly and dry them gently, especially since floppy ears can trap moisture. Never push anything into the ear canal.6Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Segugio dell'Appennino live?
Lifespan varies for this breed. Ask your vet or a good breeder for an estimate based on the individual dog's health and lineage.
Is a Segugio dell'Appennino good with children and other pets?
This hound is used to working with other dogs and its handler, so it generally gets along well with canine companions. Its temperament with children can vary, so early socialisation and supervision are recommended. Ask a breeder for specific advice.1
Can a Segugio dell'Appennino be left alone?
This breed is used to canine company and thrives in an active home. It may struggle with long periods alone. If you need to leave it, provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation beforehand, and consider a dog sitter or companion.1
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
Segugio Italiano
Segugio Maremmano