Spinone Italiano
Italy's ancient wirehaired pointer, patient and thorough
History & Origins
Ancient Italian Heritage
The Spinone Italiano is one of the oldest pointing breeds in existence, with origins tracing back to at least 500 BC in the Piedmont region of northwestern Italy. Ancient frescoes and writings describe dogs remarkably similar to the modern Spinone, suggesting the breed type has remained consistent for centuries.
The name "Spinone" likely derives from "pino" (pine), referring to the thorny undergrowth where these dogs hunted, or from "spino" (thorn), describing their rough, protective coat. The breed was developed to work in the challenging terrain of the Italian Alps and Piedmont hills.
Near Extinction and Recovery
The Spinone nearly disappeared after World War II, a fate shared by many European breeds. Italian breeders worked to restore the breed, sometimes crossing with other wirehaired pointing breeds. By the 1950s, dedicated efforts had stabilized the population.
The breed arrived in the United States in the 1930s but remained obscure until the 1980s when American hunters began appreciating the Spinone's unique qualities. The AKC recognized the breed in 2000.
Today, the Spinone remains relatively rare but has a devoted following among hunters who appreciate a dog that works at a pace suited to walking hunters and rough terrain.
The Philosopher's Dog
Spinone owners often describe their dogs as having a philosophical, almost human-like quality. Their expressive faces, gentle demeanor, and deliberate working style have earned them descriptions as the "thinkers" of the pointing dog world.
Physical Characteristics
Size Standards
- Males: 23-27 inches, 70-85 pounds
- Females: 22-25 inches, 61-75 pounds
- Build: Robust, square, well-muscled
- Bone: Heavy, substantial
Coat & Colors
- Type: Wiry, dense, 1.5-2.5 inches long
- Texture: Rough, stiff, no undercoat
- Colors: White, orange roan, brown roan
- Markings: Orange or brown patches accepted
Distinctive Features
Head & Expression
- • Long head with divergent skull/muzzle planes
- • Large, expressive, ochre or dark yellow eyes
- • Pronounced brow ridge
- • Triangular, pendant ears
- • Gentle, almost human expression
Body & Movement
- • Square body proportion
- • Deep, broad chest
- • Strong, muscular hindquarters
- • Docked or natural tail
- • Extended trot with reach and drive
The Spinone Coat
The Spinone's coat is uniquely suited to rough terrain - stiff enough to protect against thorns and briars, but without the dense undercoat of German wirehaired breeds. This makes them more comfortable in warm weather but less suited to cold water work than double-coated breeds.
Temperament & Personality
The Gentle Giant
Spinoni are renowned for their gentle, patient temperament. They're often described as one of the most docile pointing breeds, with an almost clownish personality that endears them to families. Despite their size, they're gentle with children and typically good with other pets.
The breed's calm demeanor extends to the field, where they work at a deliberate pace rather than with the explosive energy of some pointers. This methodical approach suits hunters who prefer a slower pace and rough terrain.
Positive Traits
- Exceptionally gentle and patient
- Excellent family dog
- Good with children and other dogs
- Affectionate and loyal
- Not prone to excessive barking
Considerations
- Can be stubborn if not motivated
- Slow to mature mentally
- Drooling from heavy flews
- May not suit hunters wanting fast dogs
- Beard collects food and water
The Expressive Face
Spinone owners often comment on their dogs' remarkably expressive faces. With their soulful eyes, pronounced eyebrows, and beard, Spinoni seem to convey human emotions. This expressiveness contributes to the strong bonds they form with their families.
Training & Development
Training Approach
Spinoni are intelligent but can be independent thinkers. They respond best to patient, positive training methods with lots of motivation. Harsh corrections will cause a Spinone to shut down - they're sensitive dogs despite their substantial size.
The breed matures slowly, often not reaching mental maturity until 2-3 years. Training should progress at the dog's pace. Pushing too fast will be counterproductive with this thoughtful breed.
Puppy Foundation (8-16 weeks)
- • Socialization with people and dogs
- • Building confidence in new situations
- • Introduction to birds and scent
- • Basic obedience through play and rewards
- • Encouraging natural hunting curiosity
Basic Training (4-12 months)
- • Developing natural pointing instinct
- • Introduction to gunfire (gradual, positive)
- • Building retrieve desire through games
- • Basic steadiness concepts
- • Field exposure and bird contacts
Advanced Training (12-24+ months)
- • Steady to wing and shot
- • Working at appropriate range
- • Water work (if interested)
- • Hunting experience in various terrain
- • Allow natural style to develop
Patience is Key
Spinoni aren't suited to trainers who expect rapid progress or intense drive. They work at their own pace and respond to patience rather than pressure. Those who appreciate the breed's deliberate style are rewarded with a loyal, capable hunting partner.
Health & Genetics
Health Overview
Spinoni are generally healthy dogs with a good lifespan for their size (12-14 years). However, as a larger breed, they're prone to certain conditions that responsible breeders screen for.
Health Conditions to Screen For
Hip Dysplasia
Common in large breeds. Parents should be OFA or PennHIP evaluated.
Elbow Dysplasia
Abnormal elbow development. OFA evaluation recommended.
Cerebellar Ataxia
Inherited neurological condition unique to Spinoni. DNA test available.
Eye Conditions
Including entropion and ectropion. Eye examination recommended.
Bloat (GDV)
Risk in deep-chested breeds. Feed multiple small meals, avoid exercise after eating.
Cerebellar Ataxia Testing
Cerebellar Ataxia is a progressive neurological disease found in Spinoni. A DNA test is available, and responsible breeders test all breeding stock. Both parents should be clear, or carriers should only be bred to clear dogs.
Hunting Applications
The Methodical Hunter
Spinoni work at a slower, more deliberate pace than most pointing breeds. This style was developed for the rough, mountainous terrain of northern Italy where speed was less important than thoroughness and endurance.
The breed excels at close-range hunting in dense cover and difficult terrain. They're particularly suited for hunters who prefer walking rather than following a wide-ranging dog.
Suitable Game
- Pheasant: Traditional upland quarry
- Woodcock: Excel in thick cover
- Grouse: Good in mountainous terrain
- Quail: Capable close-working pointer
Hunting Characteristics
- Close-working, thorough pattern
- Excellent nose and air-scenting
- Steady, intense point
- Natural retriever with soft mouth
Working Style
The Spinone's trot is distinctive - a relaxed, ground-covering gait that allows them to work all day without tiring. They point with intensity, often crouching low on game. Their retrieve is gentle, suited to delicate game birds.
Don't expect a Spinone to cover ground like a Pointer or Setter. Their value lies in thoroughness, not speed. They're ideal for hunters who work on foot in challenging terrain where endurance matters more than range.
Water Work Considerations
Spinoni can retrieve from water and many enjoy swimming. However, their single coat (no undercoat) means they're not suited for extended cold water work. They're better for occasional water retrieves than dedicated waterfowl hunting.
Care & Maintenance
Exercise Requirements
- Moderate exercise (1-2 hours daily)
- Less demanding than high-drive breeds
- Enjoys hiking and outdoor activities
- Mental stimulation important
Grooming Needs
- Weekly brushing minimum
- Hand-stripping maintains coat texture
- Beard cleaning after meals
- Regular ear cleaning
Living With a Spinone
Spinoni make excellent house dogs despite their size. They're calm indoors and don't require the constant activity of higher-drive breeds. They want to be with their families and are happiest when included in daily activities.
Considerations
- • Some drooling, especially after drinking
- • Beard collects food and water
- • Need space due to size
- • Can be messy drinkers
- • Gentle with household items despite size
The Beard
Spinone beards require regular attention. They collect food, water, and debris. Many owners keep a towel handy for post-meal and post-drink cleanup. Some trim the beard shorter for easier maintenance, though this changes the breed's characteristic appearance.
Finding Your Spinone Italiano
Selecting a Breeder
Spinoni are relatively rare in North America, but dedicated breeders can be found through the breed club. Most breeders are enthusiasts who breed occasionally rather than commercially. Expect to wait for the right litter.
Given the breed's rarity, some puppies may be imported from Europe. Italian, British, and other European breeders have established lines with proven hunting ability.
Breeder Questions
- Cerebellar Ataxia DNA test results?
- Hip and elbow evaluations?
- Do you hunt with your dogs?
- Temperament of the parents?
- Support after purchase?
Red Flags
- No Cerebellar Ataxia testing
- No health testing documentation
- Multiple litters always available
- Not involved with breed club
- Breeding for unusual colors
Resources
- Spinone Club of America: Primary breed club with breeder referrals
- Italian Spinone Club (UK): British breed club
- NAVHDA: Testing organization
Price & Availability
Spinone puppies from health-tested parents typically cost $1,500-$2,500. Due to the breed's rarity, waiting lists of 6-12 months are common. Some buyers import puppies from Europe, which adds transportation costs. The investment in a well-bred Spinone ensures years of companionship and hunting partnership.
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