Italian Spinone, Spinone, Italian Griffon, Italian Wire-Haired Pointer, Italian Coarsehaired Pointer
Overview
The spinone Italiano has a hound look about it, with a fairly long head and muzzle, large, dropped ears and somewhat pendulous lips. It is a strong, muscular dog, able to trot at fast pace all day and then retrieve over water or land. Its dense wiry coat allows it to hunt under any conditions. The coat is generally single, consisting of rough, dry, thick hair about 1.5 to 2.5 inches in length. Longer hair garnishing the lips and eyebrows adds further protection in addition to adding to its intelligent and gentle expression.
This is a devoted and gentle dog, very willing to please. It is affectionate and gets along well with other dogs and pets and children. It is also courageous. The spinone is calmer and easier going than most pointing breeds.
| Size | Medium |
| Height | 22½-27½ inches |
| Weight | 61-85 pounds |
| Lifespan | 12-14 years |
| Colors | Brown Roan Orange Roan White White & Orange |
| Origin | Italy |
| Classification | Purebred |
| Good Lapcat |
| Good In Apartments |
Content within a fenced yard, this large dog is nevertheless capable of jumping very high. The occasional one is a tunneler. Talk to breeders about secure fencing. |
| Good With Children |
Good with Kids: This is a suitable breed for kids and is known to be playful, energetic, and affectionate around them. |
| Good With Dogs |
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| Good With Cats |
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| Exercise Needs |
Their activity level is low to medium indoors and medium to high outdoors. A good breed to jog with, the Spinone Italiano is not a "racy" type dog, moving more slowly and methodically than many other gun dog breeds. As such, he can do well with a small yard combined with daily walks and play. |
| Trainability |
Moderately Easy Training: Training won't require too much attention and effort, though it won't be easier than other breeds. Expect results to come gradually. |
| Affectionate |
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| Playfulness |
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| Grooming Requirements |
Moderate Maintenance: This breed requires just a small amount of stripping—pulling dead hair—as opposed to cutting, to neaten the coat. Other than that, just a weekly brushing will suffice. Bathe as necessary. Some say this breed grooms himself like a cat. |
| Shedding |
Minimal Shedding: This dog will shed a negligible amount. Recommended for owners who do not want to deal with dog hair in their cars and homes. |
| Vocalization/Barking |
Occassional |