Spinone Italiano

Spinone Personality
A longtime popular gundog in Italy, the Spinone dates back to 500 BC where they were masters at hunting, pointing and retrieving game -they are second now to the Bracco Italiano – but are fast gaining popularity in the rest of the Western world with their unique looks and good-spirited personality
The name Spinone comes from the Italian word pino which is an Italian thorn bush and where only the thick-skinned, coarse coated Spinone could make its way into unharmed to retrieve small game
Fun-loving, social, intelligent and devoted
Formerly known as the Spinone Italiano and alternatively known as the Italian Griffon

Spinone Size
65-85lbs
23-28 inches at the withers (shoulders)

Spinone Family and Home
A fine family dog given the Spinone’s fun-loving, patient attitude; he has a natural affinity with children but puppies are far too rowdy for young/small children or elderly adults
Spinone are best suited to an energetic family ready to include them in all activities as Spinones do not like to be left out of anything their family does
The Spinone is a high-maintenance dog in terms of his above average exercise and companionship needs
While ideally suited to the country where he can run and have plenty of space, he will adapt to his family’s needs in an urban environment if given proper exercise and attention
Given the Spinone coat’s uncanny ability to absorb any type of mud or muck and his propensity to drooling, he is not a good choice for the house proud

Spinone Bark
Moderate barkers who will alert their master to a strange noise or intruder

Spinone Training
Spinones are an extremely intelligent breed that responds best to a calm and repetitive approach
A sensitive breed that will not react well to harsh training methods or rough handling
Spinones have a slow maturity rate and a long puppyhood – owners with patience and a sense of humor are a good match for this dog
Good with other dogs if properly introduced as they enjoy social interaction with other canines; keep in mind that the Spinone will likely never tire of chasing cats given his hunting nature
Spinones can be stubborn and are not suggested for novice owners

Spinone Exercise
Highly active breed that needs 1-2 hours of walking per day plus plenty of free run in an open, secure park or yard
This breed needs daily activity and plenty of it regardless of the weather as their coat is weather resistant
Spinones are excellent swimmers and enjoy time in the water
Some say “…a tired Spinone is a good Spinone”

Spinone Coat
Coat is generally white with apricot or brown markings, or brown with white markings
A somewhat coarse coat that requires a weekly brushing with a wire slicker brush to keep this weatherproof coat clean and healthy
The Spinone’s long, furry ears and beard need daily combing and washing with a pet wipe to remove the muck that they always manage to collect

Spinone Care
Spinones require both mental and physical stimulation as well as encouragement and positive reinforcement given their sensitive nature

Spinone Health
A generally healthy breed that can be genetically predisposed to hip dysplasia, ectropion and entropion (misshapen eyelids)
Sadly some puppies are born with cerebellar ataxia which is a disorder that causes puppies to lose control of their limbs – there is a low survival rate for this condition

Spinone Lifespan
12-14 years

Visit Spinone Rescue to learn more about Spinones and find rescued dogs available for adoption.