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The Canine Chronicles Directory
Spinone Italiano
The Spinone Italiano is a large and rugged dog with a well-muscled body and limbs.
It has a long head, long ears and human-like eyes. He has strong bones and a square
build. The chest is deep and the topline curves up slightly from below the withers.
The coat protects them from all climates and terrains. As a model retriever, this
breed will jump into freezing waters. It sports dewclaws on all four feet and its
webbed paws make them powerful swimmers. The tail is docked to about half its normal
length.
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Temperament
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This intelligent, happy, enthusiastic breed is easy to get along with. He loves
to be treated like a part of the family. He is very entertaining at home, but serious
about his field work. This breed loves children, but needs the child to treat them
with respect. He is very patient and gets along well with other animals in the family.
Though large in size, this breed believes he is a lap dog. He is a quiet breed but
may occasionally howl at sirens. He is not considered a good watchdog unless his
family is directly threatened. He can be a bit stubborn, but is a fast learner.
This breed works slow and should not be mistaken for a Pointer or Border Collie.
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Height, Weight
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Height: 22-28" ; Weight: 61-85 lbs.
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Health Problems
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This breed is prone to hip dysplasia and bloating. Can suffer from Cerebellar Ataxia,
or abnormal gait which is considered a brain disorder.
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Living Conditions
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This breed can jump very high and are tunnellers. Talk to professionals about secure
fencing. The Spinone is especially good in heavy cover or cold, wet conditions where
his protective coat serves him well.
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Exercise
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This breed has a high activity level outdoors. They are good to jog with and do
well with a small yard.
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Life Expectancy
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12 or more years
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Grooming
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This breed needs occasional stripping to neaten the coat. Weekly brushing will suffice
and bathe when necessary.
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Origin
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The Spinone stemmed from native hounds, probably of Segugio type, as did the Bracco.
His history is not complete. There may be evidence that the griffons of France and
the Spinone are closely related, with the griffons springing from early Spinones
? or both coming from common ancestors. The presence of the corded shepherd dogs
in Italy could have accounted for the bristling wiry coats on these breeds. He is
also credited with being a very old blend of coarse haired setters from Italy, bred
with these left by Greek traders and others from the Adriatic coast, and a cross
to white mastiff. The truth in dog histories is entwined with legends. They are
recognized by the AKC and the UKC.
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Group
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AKC Sporting, UKC Gun Dog
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