Italian Shorthaired Hound
Primitive hounds imported into Italy – not to be confused with greyhounds – are the ancestors of the Italian Shorthaired Hound, which has remained basically unchanged for centuries.
About the Italian Shorthaired Hounds
Italian Shorthaired Hounds are well adapted to the most diverse types of terrain. They are very hardy animals that can run at great speed, working with enthusiasm either alone or in a pack. The bold Italian Shorthaired Hound has a gentle expression and a very pleasant voice.
They are clearly descended from primitive hounds from ancient Egypt that were introduced along the Mediterranean coast, including Italy, by Phoenician traders. There are many depictions of hounds that closely resemble Italian Shorthaired Hounds near various Pharaohs.
Source: key facts and characteristics sourced from Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)
Breed specifics
- Country
- Italy
- Group
- FCI Group 6
- Size category
- Medium
- Avg life expectancy
- 10–14 years
Resilient / Enthusiastic / Gentle / Loving