Spinone Italiano Breed Information

Spinone Italiano   

The Spinone Italiano, or Italian Pointer, has a life expectancy of 12 to 14 years.

Origin
The Spinone Italiano’s origin is a source of debate. Some believe the Spinone Italiano descended from Greek pointing dogs, while others claim the Spinone Italiano came from ancient Italian hunting dogs. Yet another theory suggests French Griffons and Barbets are the true ancestors of the breed. Very little is known about the true history of the Italian Spinone, what is known however, is that these dogs date back to around 500 B.C. and were used extensively to hunt across the harshest of terrain.

Size
The Spinone Italiano weighs 55 to 85 pounds and measures 22 to 27 inches.

Grooming Needs
The Spinone Italiano has a dense, wiry coat and thick skin for traversing through the toughest of conditions. The Spinone Italiano sheds minimally and only requires a weekly brushing and occasional bath. The Spinone Italiano also needs to be hand stripped a few times a year. The breed is fairly low maintenance when it comes to grooming, but their full beard tends to get wet and dirty easily. Luckily, a quick onceover with a towel is normally all that is needed to help the Spinone Italiano stay clean.

Like all dogs, the Spinone Italiano also needs basic grooming. Brush their teeth, clean their ears and trim their nails on a regular basis.  

Character
The Spinone Italiano is sociable and gentle.

Temperament
The Spinone Italiano is a determined and energetic hunter. At home with their family, however, the Spinone Italiano is docile and humorous. The Spinone Italiano loves to have fun and thrives on human interaction. They are highly people oriented and will insist on getting attention, even if they have to put on a show to get it.

The sweet Spinone Italiano generally gets along well with everyone, including new people and other dogs and pets. They can sometimes be shy or wary, but are overall quite even tempered and steady.

Training Needs
The Spinone Italiano picks up instruction and training quickly. The Spinone Italiano is highly intelligent and responds well to a firm, but kind leader and lots of variety. Once the basics are understood, the Spinone Italiano can go on to participate in obedience, agility, conformation and tracking.

Activity Level
The Spinone Italiano is a natural hunter, but is fairly laidback in the home as long as their exercise needs are met. The Spinone Italiano should have a long daily walk and lots of time outside in a secure area to run around and play. They can also be great companions for jogging, hiking and swimming.  
 

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