Spinone Italiano Breed Profile: Essential Facts
This is a large dog with an even bigger heart.
Spinone Italiano
- AKC Group: Sporting
- Weight: 61–85 lbs.
- Height: 22–27 in.
- Life Span: 12 years
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Key Characteristics
The Spinone Italiano (a.k.a. Italian Spinoni, the plural version of the name; Spinone; or Italian Coarsehaired Pointer) is a large, rugged dog known as Italy's all-purpose hunting dog.
These are excellent hunters, retrievers and pointers with wiry, dense coats. Coat colors include white, white and orange, orange roan and brown roan and may have orange or brown markings.
The nose features large nostrils and can be tan or brown, depending on the dog's coat.
Where They Came From
These dogs descended from ancient Italian dogs used by hunters in harsh terrain.
The breed name is derived from "bracco spinoso," meaning "prickly pointer." The term refers to either the dogs' wiry coat or the thorny shrubs they flush game out of.
Evidence of the breed dates to around 300 B.C., with the mention of pointers with rough coats in Roman history. The breed's origins have been claimed by many countries, including Spain, France, Russia and Greece.
The dogs' numbers declined greatly during World War II, and a rescue movement was soon created, resulting in the formation of a breed club, La Famiglia dello Spinone, in the 1950s. The breed was solidified and has been well represented internationally ever since.
The American Kennel Club recognized the breed in 2000.
How Friendly Are They?
The Spinone Italiano is not a guard dog but may react to a direct threat.
Otherwise, they are social, docile, intelligent and energetic dogs who are naturally cautious.
They are active, possess great strength and stamina, and can also be clownish and entertaining. They love children and become close to their family members, so there is a possibility of separation anxiety.
While the Spinone Italiano may bark to notify you of strangers or danger, the breed is not noisy.
They are good with dogs but should be thoroughly socialized with other pets or smaller animals.
Is This the Right Dog for You?
Exercise Needs
HIGH: This active breed loves the outdoors, is an excellent swimmer and makes a good jogging partner.
Provide a consistent exercise regimen. Remember to leash your Spinone Italiano when outdoors or make sure a tall, secure fence can prevent them from escaping (they can jump like nobody's business).
Spinoni Italiani may also show an affinity for digging or tunneling and could benefit from a designated area for this purpose. The coat protects them in extreme cold, and they are known to eagerly enter very cold water without hesitation.
Grooming Needs
LOW: The Spinone Italiano is the ultimate wash and wear breed. The dog needs only occasional brushing and stripping of the coat.
Bathe as needed, although the long hair on the muzzle may trap water, food or debris. The coat doesn't need to be trimmed or cut unless it's bothersome to the dog.
As with any dog breed, you'll need to regularly maintain the ears, teeth and nails.
Health Problems
MEDIUM: The breed is considered healthy, with only small instances of the following health conditions: Elbow dysplasia Hip dysplasia Bloat Cerebellar ataxia (inherited disease) Allergies Cancer Cataracts Dermatitis Epilepsy
Osteochondritis has been observed in the breed but is not considered common at the time of publication. This Spinone Italiano loves to sing:
Where to Adopt One?
Purebred dogs end up in shelters and rescues every day, so start your search with those resources or check Petful's adoptable dog search.
The Spinone Italiano is not considered a common dog breed, so it may be difficult to find one.
If you find one through a breeder, make sure the breeder is legitimate and has no signs of running a puppy mill. Ask for health clearances or any other tests performed on the parents of the dog you intend to bring home.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Spinone Italianos make excellent family dogs. They are gentle, affectionate, and good with children and other pets, but they need regular exercise and companionship.
A Spinone Italiano puppy typically costs between $1,500 and $3,500, depending on the breeder, pedigree, and location.
No, Spinone Italianos are not aggressive. They are known for their friendly and easygoing temperament, making them great companions and family pets.
Yes, Spinone Italianos can have a natural doggy odor due to their dense, wiry coat, which can trap dirt and moisture. Regular grooming and bathing help manage any smell.
Additional Resources
- American Kennel Club's Spinone Italiano page
- Spinone Club of America
Kristine Lacoste has been researching dog and cat breeds for nearly a decade and has observed the animals up close at dog shows in both the United States and the United Kingdom. She is the author of the book One Unforgettable Journey, which was named as a finalist for a Maxwell Award from the Dog Writers Association of America, and was host of a weekly pet news segment on the National K-9 Academy Radio Show. In addition, she was the New Orleans coordinator for Dogs on Deployment, a nonprofit that helps military members and their pets, for 3 years. Kristine has researched and written about pet behaviors and care for many years. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology, another bachelor’s degree in English and a Master of Business Administration degree.
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