Pet Wiki

Segugio dell'Appennino

Also called Apennine Hound, Appennine Hound, Italian Hare-hunting Dog

A keen, focused hunting hound bred to follow hare by scent over steep ground.

SizeMedium
Weight10 to 18 kg (22 to 40 lb)1
Height42 to 50 cm (17 to 20 in)males 44 to 50 cm, females 42 to 48 cm1
CoatSmooth or rough
OriginItaly, the Apennine mountain range12
GroupFCI group 6
Provisionally recognisedShort profile
nimble in mountain terrain
keen nose for hare
works alone, in pairs or in a small pack
1

Personality what they are like

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

Coat and looks how to spot one

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

The care rhythm a typical week and year

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

Daily activity how busy a day looks

High. Bred to track hare for long spells in the mountains, so it needs plenty of daily exercise and scent-based activity.1

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Low to moderate. The smooth coat needs only an occasional brush; the rough coat with its dense undercoat benefits from regular brushing.1

Home where they are happiest

Best suited to an active, rural or outdoorsy home with secure outdoor space and regular access to walks or trails.1

Company who they like around

Traditionally hunts together with other hounds in pairs or small packs, so it is used to canine company.1

The story where it all began

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

Fun facts for the dinner table

  1. 1

    It was first described as a distinct type back in 1882, in the Italian magazine La Caccia Illustrata.1

  2. 2

    A 2015 genetic study found no significant genetic distance between it and the Segugio Maremmano.1

  3. 3

    Italian registrations ran at roughly 200 to 400 puppies a year between 2013 and 2022.1

  4. 4

    Although bred for hare, it is also used on wild boar.1

Where the name comes from the story behind it

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

Name ideas for your new friend

ApenninoCacciaLepreRocciaMonteTracciaBellaFidoOlmoNebbiaSoleBricco

A day in the life told by a Segugio dell'Appennino

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.

Recognised by the official bits

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

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

  • 1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

  1. Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
  2. Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
  3. Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

  • 1 cooking pumpkin
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
  • Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

  1. Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
  2. Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
  3. Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
  4. Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
  5. Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
  6. Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
  7. Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Blueberry and Oat Bites

These three-ingredient treats are quick to make and packed with antioxidants from blueberries and fibre from oats. They are low in fat and perfect as a training reward.

You need

  • 100g oats
  • 1 banana (mashed)
  • 40g fresh blueberries (chopped)
  • Splash of water (as needed)

How

  1. Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F).
  2. In a bowl, mix the mashed banana, oats, and chopped blueberries together.
  3. Add splashes of water gradually until the mixture comes together into a large ball.
  4. Roll out the mixture on a lightly floured surface to about 1-2cm thick.
  5. Use a knife or cookie cutter to cut into shapes.
  6. Place the shapes on a lined baking tray.
  7. Bake for 15-20 minutes until slightly browned.
  8. Leave to cool completely before serving.

How much: Offer one or two bites per day for a medium-sized dog. Reduce your dog's usual food portion to account for these treats.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

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

Owner questions the things everyone asks

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.6 Pet 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.16 Pet 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.6 Pet 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.1 Pet 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.6 Pet 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.

You might also like

Segugio ItalianoSegugio Maremmano

Where this comes from

Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? [email protected].

  1. Segugio dell'Appennino - Wikipedia en.wikipedia.orgused for recognition, size, coat, colours, use, history, facts
  2. Segugio dell'Appennino - Wikipedia (Italian) it.wikipedia.orgused for ENCI recognition dates, origin
  3. fci.be fci.be
  4. VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
  5. ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
  6. ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions

Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.