The Spinone Italiano is a pointing dog breed originating from Italy. It is a rustic dog with great endurance, known for its gentle, patient, and loyal nature. Primarily used for hunting, especially in challenging terrains, it is now also appreciated as a companion dog due to its affectionate personality.
The Spinone Italiano is a large-sized, muscular, and robust dog. Its height at the withers ranges from 58 to 70 cm, and its weight is between 28 and 39 kg. It has a solid build with a powerful but not fast gait. Its massive head is characterized by a beard and thick eyebrows, giving it a serious and distinguished expression. Its ears are long and hanging, and its amber-colored eyes exude great gentleness.
The coat of the Spinone Italiano is hard, dense, and slightly tousled, providing effective protection against the elements. Coat colors are typically solid white, white with orange or brown patches, and roan (a mixture of white and colored hairs). Regular brushing is recommended to keep its coat clean and prevent matting.
The Spinone Italiano is a large-sized dog. Males measure between 60 and 70 cm at the withers, while females are slightly smaller, between 58 and 65 cm. Their weight ranges from 28 to 39 kg, making them solid and enduring dogs, well-suited for hunting work in rugged terrain.
The Spinone Italiano is a gentle, patient, and friendly dog. It is very sociable and gets along well with children and other animals. Although it is an excellent hunting dog, it also makes a wonderful family companion due to its affectionate and easy-going nature. Training should be gentle but firm, as it is sensitive and does not respond well to harsh methods.
The Spinone Italiano is generally a healthy and robust breed, but it can be prone to certain hereditary conditions such as hip and elbow dysplasia, as well as eye disorders like entropion. Regular veterinary check-ups and a balanced diet are essential for maintaining its well-being. Its life expectancy is around 12 to 14 years.
