Spinone Italiano

Origins and History

The Spinone Italiano originated in northern Italy during the 16th‑17th centuries as a versatile gundog for hunting game birds and larger quarry in rough, mountainous terrain. Early references describe a “spino” (meaning “spined” or “rough‑haired”) used by Italian aristocracy. The breed was refined in the Piedmont and Lombardy regions, and by the early 20th century it was recognized by the Ente Nazionale della Cinofilia Italiana (ENCI). The Spinone was admitted to the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) in 1955 (Group 7 – Pointing Breeds). Today it remains a beloved companion and field trial dog worldwide.

General Characteristics

• Medium‑large, well‑balanced gun dog with a sturdy, rectangular frame.
• Gentle, affectionate, and eager to please; good with children and other pets when properly socialized.
• Originally bred for pointing, retrieving, and tracking; excels in both field work and conformation showing.

Physical Specifications

• Height (at withers): Males 55‑60 cm (21½‑23½ in); Females 53‑58 cm (20⅞‑22¾ in).
• Weight: Proportionate to height; typically 27‑32 kg (60‑70 lb) for males and 25‑30 kg (55‑66 lb) for females.

Coat and Color

• Coat dense, wiry, slightly wavy; length 2‑5 cm (≈0.8‑2 in), with a soft under‑coat.
• Accepted colors: solid orange, orange roan, solid chestnut, chestnut roan, solid white with orange or chestnut markings, or white with orange or chestnut roan markings.

Temperament Considerations

The Spinone is intelligent and eager to work, yet retains a calm, laid‑back demeanor. It responds best to positive‑reinforcement methods and can be sensitive to harsh corrections. Early exposure to a variety of people, animals, and environments helps prevent shyness.

Training Essentials

• Socialization requirements: Begin at 8 weeks; introduce to noises, surfaces, other dogs, and children.
• Exercise needs: Minimum 1‑2 hours of active play or field work daily; swimming and tracking are ideal outlets.
• Common training challenges: occasional independence, tendency to become bored if tasks are not varied; use game‑based training to maintain interest.

Daily Grooming

• Brushing frequency: 2‑3 times per week with a slicker brush or curry comb to remove loose hair and prevent matting.
• Bathing requirements: As needed, typically every 6‑8 weeks or after field work; use a mild dog shampoo to preserve coat oils.
• Nail and dental care: Trim nails weekly or when they touch the ground; brush teeth several times per week and schedule professional cleanings at least annually.

Show Preparation

• Pre‑show grooming timeline: Hand‑strip coat 2‑3 weeks before the show to achieve the desired wiry texture; trim feathering on ears, tail, and feet the day before the ring.
• Ring presentation tips: Ensure the coat lies flat and shows the correct roan pattern; maintain a clean, well‑conditioned muzzle and bright eyes; present the dog in a calm, forward‑moving gait to highlight its natural pointing style.

Common Health Issues

• Hip dysplasia – screening with OFA or Penn‑Hip recommended.
• Elbow dysplasia – radiographic evaluation advisable.
• Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and hereditary cataracts – annual CERF eye examinations.
• Hypothyroidism – routine blood work for early detection.
• Gastric dilatation‑volvulus (bloat) – consider prophylactic gastropexy for high‑risk individuals.

General Care

• Exercise requirements: Minimum 1‑2 hours of vigorous activity daily; includes off‑lead runs, fetch, and swimming.
• Nutritional needs: High‑quality protein‑rich diet formulated for medium‑large active breeds; monitor body condition to maintain optimal weight.
• Lifespan considerations: Average 10‑12 years; regular veterinary check‑ups, preventive vaccinations, and health screenings extend longevity.

Disclaimer: While the information presented reflects current breed standards and veterinary consensus, individual dogs may vary. Always consult a qualified veterinarian or breed‑specific club for personalized advice.