Description: The Spinone Italiano is a very talented hunting dog breed. Their tracking abilities are keen and their "soft" mouth retrieves game unspoiled. The Spinone also has a terrific personality and is gentle, dogs who are devoted and very willing to please. Considered more of a hound than a pointer they are not known to be barkers, whiny or bossy.

Other Names: Italian Spinone

Height: Males: 23.5 - 27.5 inches, Females: 22.5 -25.5 inches.
Weight: Males: 71 - 82 lbs., Females: 62 - 71 lbs.

Colors: All white or white with orange or chestnut markings.
Coat: Wiry, rough and close-fitted.

Temperament: The Spinone Italiano is responsive, loyal, gentle
With Children: Yes, trustworthy with children.
With Pets: Yes
Special Skills: Field sports dog and family pet.

Watch-dog: High
Guard-dog: Low

Care and Exercise: Grooming of your Spinone Italiano should consist of a good thorough brushing done weekly. Clean ears weekly, wipe eyes daily. The beard may attract food and should be wiped when it does. Daily exercise is required which should include long walks on-leash and a good run off-leash. They love to swim and would make a great partner to run alongside a bicycle.
Training: May be stubborn at times, but they are gentle and affectionate and want to please.
Learning Rate: Medium, Obedience - Low

Activity: Medium
Living Environment: A house with a fenced yard is essential to the Spinone Italiano as they are known to follow their nose if they pick up a scent. They can live outdoors, but would prefer to live indoors with their family. An owner of a Spinone should desire an gentle but active breed.

Health Issues: Hip dysplasia, cerebellar ataxia, hormone imbalance, pyometra.

Life Span: 12 - 14 Years
Litter Size:

Country of Origin: Italy
History: An ancient gun dog they are first mentioned to have existed over 2,000 years ago in Italy. Speculation is that they were crossed with the Griffon or possible the German Pointer. Used to hunt over all types of terrain. Mainly known in Italy, the popularity of the Spinone is increasing worldwide.

First Registered by the AKC: 2000
AKC Group: Sporting Dogs
Class: Gundog
Registries: AKC, ANKC, CKC, FCI (Group 9), KC (GB), UKC

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