Segugio Italiano a Pelo Raso

It is the smooth-coated form of Italy's ancient hare hound, a lean, athletic scenthound built to follow a scent for hours over varied country. Of square, deer-like proportions with a long muzzle, gentle dark eyes and a short, glossy coat, it is recognised by the FCI and can be registered with the UK Kennel Club via its imported breed register, though it remains rare in Britain.

It is a medium-sized dog, standing roughly 48 to 59 cm at the shoulder and weighing around 18 to 28 kg. The build is lean and athletic with a deeper chest, reflecting a dog bred to cover ground tirelessly rather than for power or bulk.

At home it is affectionate, mild-mannered and closely bonded to its family, typically gentle with people it knows and sociable with other dogs. It lacks the sharpness of some terriers or guarding breeds. Its high prey drive towards small animals means homes with small pets need careful management, and interactions with young children should always be supervised.

A lot. This is a high-energy, high-stamina hound that needs well over an hour of daily exercise, with plenty of opportunity to use its nose. Long walks, hikes, scent games and secure off-lead running all help. A Segugio that is under-exercised or bored can become restless, frustrated and vocal, so it suits a genuinely active lifestyle.

Grooming needs are modest. The short, smooth coat sheds moderately and is easily maintained with a weekly brush to remove dead hair and keep it glossy, with only occasional bathing. The most important routine care is checking and gently cleaning the drop ears, which can trap moisture, plus regular nail trimming and dental care.

Only in genuinely safe, enclosed spaces. The breed's entire history has selected for following a scent, so a Segugio with its nose down can become deaf to its owner and oblivious to traffic or livestock. Recall is often unreliable once a trail is found, and a long-line is invaluable for giving freedom while keeping control in open areas.

Typically around 11 to 14 years. The breed is hardy and functional, without the exaggerated features that burden some pedigree dogs, and many individuals live active lives into their early teens. Keeping the dog at a healthy weight and maintaining good ear, dental and veterinary care support a long, healthy life.

It is generally a hardy breed, but as it is rare outside Italy there is limited UK screening data, so ask breeders about the parents' health and any testing. The most relevant everyday concerns are those common to active, drop-eared scenthounds: ear infections, orthopaedic conditions seen across medium breeds, and injuries or parasites picked up working in rough country.

Fine with sensible, older children. As a general guide, Segugio Italiano a Pelo Rasos tend to be fine with sensible, older children. Whatever the breed, always supervise dogs and young children and teach kids to interact gently.

As a healthy adult, a typical Segugio Italiano a Pelo Raso needs 90 minutes to 2 hours of exercise a day (90–120 minutes), split across walks plus play. Higher-energy dogs also need mental stimulation — sniffing, training games and puzzle feeders — to stay settled. Puppies, seniors and dogs with health conditions need less — ask your vet.

Moderate shedding. Coat upkeep is easy-care — a quick brush now and then is usually enough.

Better with some experience. Segugio Italiano a Pelo Rasos are best for owners ready to commit to consistent training and plenty of activity. Reward-based training and early socialisation help any dog.

Vocal / alert barker. They can be quite vocal, so early training and enough exercise and stimulation help keep barking in check.

Sociable with other dogs. Early, positive socialisation with other dogs from a young age makes a big difference.

Needs plenty of space. A Segugio Italiano a Pelo Raso really needs plenty of space and a lot of daily activity — not ideal for a small flat.