Segugio Maremmano

As a pet, the Segugio Maremmano is rarely purchased. It is, after all, an exclusively hunting dog with a free-spirited character. It is perfectly adapted to difficult weather conditions and hunting in any terrain. For Segugio Maremmano, it is not a problem to wade even through dense forests and ponds to bring its master some prey. Like all hounds, the Segugio Maremmano has a sonorous and loud bark, which helps it follow the trail.

Breed Photos

Origin History

The formation of the breed dates back to the 1800s. It was then that the first representatives of the breed were discovered on the western coast of the Apennine peninsula, specifically in the geographical area of Maremma (Italian: Tuscany). The breed received its name precisely because of the area of its origin. The Segugio Maremmano was a trendy dog among Italian hunters of the time. It was considered a faithful companion and used its instincts, sense of smell, and stamina to hunt foxes and, preferably, wild boar.

Unfortunately, not much information about the Segugio Maremmano has come down to us, as for a long time, the breed did not want to be recognized at all. In Italy, since 1930, connoisseurs of the breed tried to do everything possible so that the breed was finally officially registered. The Segugio Maremmano was created by ordinary hunters of the Tuscany region, crossing unknown street dogs with other unregistered hunting dogs. It was this fact that suspended the recognition of the breed for many years. Segugio Maremmano received official recognition by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale and its breed standard only in 2018. It happened thanks to the president of the specialized Italian hound club – veterinarian Dr. Bosio. Until 2018, in 2009, the breed was only registered with the Italian Kennel Club. At that time, there were about 6,600 individuals. The Segugio Maremmano is quite popular in its homeland but almost unknown outside the country.

Appearance

The main feature of the Segugio Maremmano is its compactness. It differs from its closest relative, the Italian Hound, precisely by its size. Segugio Maremmano is a medium-sized dog with an elegant build. The format is rectangular; the body is slightly extended. Large head (skin without wrinkles). The eyes are oval in shape, necessarily dark in color, with a very attentive look. The ears are triangular, hanging, and adjacent to the cheekbones, wide at the base. The neck is strong and shaped like a truncated cone. The chest is well developed. Strong and muscular limbs. The tail is set high, tapering toward the end. The skin is thin and without characteristic wrinkles.

The coat can be either short or stiff. The breed’s short-haired variant has a dense, smooth, and shiny coat, 1.5 cm long. The stiff-haired variant is also a dense but somewhat shaggy coat, 3-4 cm long. Colors are allowed: red, pale, yellowish-brown, tiger, black, and spotted. There may also be white spots on the legs, neck, chest, forehead, and tip of the tail.

Character

As a pet, the Segugio Maremmano is rarely purchased. It is, after all, an exclusively hunting dog with a free-spirited character. It is perfectly adapted to difficult weather conditions and hunting in any terrain. For Segugio Maremmano, it is not a problem to wade even through dense forests and ponds to bring its master some prey. Like all hounds, the Segugio Maremmano has a sonorous and loud bark, which helps it follow the trail.

The Segugio Maremmano works great on its own or in a pack. Don’t forget that the hound dog requires long walks and an active lifestyle. It is used to spending its energy and does not sit still. The breed is only suitable for keeping in your own home; it will not get along in an apartment in any way. Segugio Maremmano needs a lot of space. Also, it is very attached to its owner and will take a long separation with great difficulty.

Care

The Segugio Maremmano is completely unpretentious in its care and is considered a very independent dog. Its skin and coat are genetically conditioned to self-cleaning due to its tendency to “street” life and frequent hunting. However, that doesn’t mean that you won’t need to groom your pet at all. Stick to standard hygiene guidelines to keep your pet looking and feeling healthy overall.

The breed’s shedding is seasonal, which means brushing every few weeks is enough. The dog’s ears require special attention, as moisture and dirt can accumulate there. Clean your dog’s ears and eyes several times every 10-12 days. Claws are mostly self-sharpening, but if that is not enough, trim them once a month.

Training

The Segugio Maremmano is a highly active dog that has an excellent tendency to be trained. But at the same time, it is stubborn and proud, which can be some problem in training. Remember that training should begin gradually and go from simple to complex. The most crucial point in training Segugio Maremmano is establishing contact and building a trusting relationship. Do not overburden the pet and do not demand too much. Positive attitude, persistence, and patience are what will not be superfluous in the education of the Segugio Maremmano.

Common Diseases

The Segugio Maremmano has robust immunity, endurance, and resistance to many hereditary diseases. Long studies of the breed have found no susceptibility to any disease.

Nutrition

Your pet’s diet directly affects its health and the proper formation of the skeleton. Therefore, the diet of the Segugio Maremmano should be as balanced as possible and include all necessary vitamins.