Spinone Italiano
The Spinone Italiano is an Italian dog breed originating from Italy. The Spinone Italiano comes from Italy, typically weighs Males, and has a rough, thick and flat coat. Individual Spinone Italianos vary, so treat this as a general guide rather than a guarantee.
Breed at a glance
- Origin
- Italy
- Weight
- Males
- Height
- Males
- Coat
- rough, thick and flat
- Colour
- solid white, white with brown or orange markings, or brown or orange roan
About the Spinone Italiano
The Spinone Italiano is an Italian dog breed originating from Italy. Males weigh 70-85 pounds and stand 23-27 inches tall.
Overview
The Spinone Italiano [ a ] is an Italian breed of hunting dog , traditionally used for tracking , for pointing and for retrieving game .
History
The origins of the Spinone are unknown. : 250 Rough-haired dogs of pointer type have been present in the Italian peninsula at least since the Renaissance . In a fresco painted by Andrea Mantegna in about 1470 in the Camera degli Sposi of the Ducal Palace of Mantua , in Lombardy, in northern Italy, a dog of this kind is shown lying under the chair of the duke, Ludovico III Gonzaga . : 250 Jacques Espée de Sélincourt , in his Le Parfait Chasseur of 1683, says of griffon dogs that "the best come from Italy and from Piedmont". : xxviii The modern Spinone originated in Piedmont , in north-western Italy, in the nineteenth century and was for some time the most important hunting breed of that region. : 250 During the Second World War it was much used by the partisans , both to track enemies and to carry food. : 250 After the War, breed numbers were much reduced; a breed society , the Famiglia dello Spinone, was formed in 1949, and the breed was reconstituted from about 1950 onwards. The Spinone was definitively accepted by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale in 1955. A second breed society, the Club Italiano Spinoni, was established in 1973. In the period from 2010 to 2018, new registrations in Italy varied from about 400 to about 650 per year; in every year, the orange-and-white colouring represented slightly over half of the total.
Characteristics
The Spinone is roughly square in outline when seen from the side – the length of the body is approximately equal to the height at the withers . It is a strong, well-muscled and solidly-built dog suitable for hunting over any kind of ground. It swims well and enters cold or deep water without hesitation. The coat is rough, thick and flat, with little undercoat; it is about 4 to 6 cm (1.5 to 2.5 in) long, rather shorter on the head, feet and front of the legs. Hair on the eyebrows and lips is longer and stiffer, thus forming a thick moustache and beard. It may be: solid white; white with orange speckling or markings; white with chestnut brown markings; or brown or orange roan . A 2024 UK study found a median lifespan of 11.9 years for the breed, close to the median of 12.5 for all dogs. Neurological disorders that have been identified in the breed include cerebellar abiotrophy : 308 and idiopathic epilepsy .
Frequently asked questions
What are the key characteristics of the Spinone Italiano?
The Spinone Italiano is a strong, well-muscled and solidly-built dog with a rough, thick and flat coat. It is roughly square in outline, with a length of body approximately equal to the height at the withers. It is suitable for hunting over any kind of ground and swims well.
Is the Spinone Italiano a good family dog?
The Spinone Italiano is generally a gentle and patient breed, making it suitable for families with children. However, as with any breed, early socialization and training are essential to ensure the dog integrates well into the family. Its hunting instincts may require careful management around small pets.
What health problems do Spinone Italianos have?
The Spinone Italiano is prone to certain health issues, including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and eye problems. Regular veterinary check-ups and genetic testing can help identify potential issues early on. Responsible breeding practices can also help minimize the risk of inherited health problems.
How much does a Spinone Italiano puppy cost?
The cost of a Spinone Italiano puppy can vary depending on factors such as location, breeder reputation, and bloodlines. On average, a Spinone Italiano puppy can cost between $800 to $1,500. It's essential to research reputable breeders and consider the long-term costs of owning a dog, including food, veterinary care, and training.
Where do Spinone Italianos come from?
The Spinone Italiano comes from Italy. The breed developed there before spreading to dog fanciers worldwide.
Related breeds
Breed information on this page is based on the Wikipedia article on the Spinone Italiano, supplemented with additional research. Reviewed for accuracy.