Description

The Spinone Italiano is a very talented hunting dog. Spinone Italiano’s tracking abilities are keen and their “soft” mouth retrieves game unspoiled. The Spinone Italiano also has a terrific personality and is a gentle dog who is devoted and very willing to please. Considered more of a hound than a pointer they are not known to be a barker, whiny or bossy.

Size of Male: Height: 23.5-27.5 inches Weight: 71-86 pounds

Size of Female: Height: 22.5-25.5 inches Weight: 62-80 pounds

Temperament

Extremely intelligent, happy, upbeat and enthusiastic, the Spinone Italiano is a pleasant, easy-going breed. Spinone Italiano is easily satisfied when treated as a member of the family. Although serious when at work in the field, Spinone Italiano definitely has a clownish side that is often quite entertaining. Never bossy or whiny unless being constantly ignored, this gentle soul loves children – those it knows and those it does not. Children must be taught to treat this wonderful dog with the love and respect they deserve. The Spinone Italiano’s great patience should never be taken for granted, for abuse is abuse, whether intentional or not. This breed gets along well with other animals, particularly enjoying the company of another dog. They want to be with their family, whether that means at home or traveling, preferably in someone’s lap! They are a quiet breed in general, but may occasionally howl along with a siren. The Spinone Italiano is not a protection breed. They are either unlikely to attack under any circumstance or would only do so if it or its family is directly threatened. They learn fast, but is sometimes a bit stubborn about performing. The Spinone Italiano has a mind of his own; feeling there should be a good reason for doing the task asked of them. For example, one breeder mentioned that his dog is perfectly willing to pick up downed birds, but it is reluctant to retrieve a training dummy. Motivational training is the only way to go with this sensitive breed. The Spinone Italiano can be timid if not properly socialized.

Living Conditions

Content within a fenced yard, Spinone Italiano is nevertheless capable of jumping very high. The occasional one is a tunneler. Talk to breeders about secure fencing. This can help prevent them from escaping from a yard following something that has caught their attention.

Upkeep

Like all sporting dogs, the Spinone Italiano needs daily exercise. This can take the form of a long walk with the Spinone Italiano or good run off leash. Spinone Italiano can live outdoors in temperate to cool climates, but it is a family dog and prefers to share time with its family. Coat care consists of weekly brushing, plus occasional hand-stripping to neaten the face and feet.

Health

Major concerns: hip dysplasia

Minor concerns: ectropion, gastric torsion, otitis externa

Life expectancy: 12 – 14 years