Spinone Italiano

The Spinone Italiano is an exceptional gun dog of Italian origin. It is sometimes called the Italian Pointer or Italian Griffon. One of the most versatile of gun dogs, its harsh coat enables it to work in thick underbrush and cold water, unhindered. Although it is little known in the United States, it is well-known in Europe, where it was historically especially popular amongst the hunting community. A hunter, pointer and retriever, the Spinone Italiano is an old-fashioned slow-footed dog with a ready mind and an excellent nose. He is patient, willing and has wonderful stamina. The Spinone Italiano averages 22 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder. It is a square, muscular dog of strong bone, robust and powerful. The topline slopes slightly and gradually from shoulders to croup.This dog has a rather long head and prominent occipital that is characteristic of the breed. Its muzzle is square. The ears are large, triangular and drop. The Spinone Italiano has large, round expressive eyes that carry a gentle, sweet expression and are often described as "human-like."� This dog has large paws with webbed feet, enabling him to work well in water. The tail is usually docked at half its natural length to 5.5 to 8 inches. The dewclaws are generally left intact. The coat of the Spinone Italiano is single and dense, and very rough, wiry and harsh. It has a pronounced weather-repellent quality. Over the body it is flat and about 1.5 to 2.5 inches long, with the areas over the face, feet and groin shorter. The hair on the backs of the legs forms a longer brush, and the eyebrows, mustache and beard are longer. The coat is flat, never curled. The coat comes in a variety of colors, including solid white, white with orange, orange roan, white with brown, and brown roan. The Spinone Italiano is believed to be one of the oldest gun dogs. Its exact origins have long been a matter of speculation this popular breed is claimed by many of the ethnic groups around Europe, encompassing theories of its origination from Greece to Russia to Spain to France, to the ancient Celtic tribes. What is known for certain is that the hunting dog existed in Europe from the time nomadic tribes from the south, and Asia to the east, entered the region. There is documentation in Italy during the Renaissance period, of a wiry-haired retriever that was likely the predecessor of the modern Spinone. This breed was improved to its present form in the Piedmont region of northwest Italy. It was intended to be an all-around hunting dog, able to work in any difficult terrain and weather, with a docile and cooperative temperament. In the end, canine historians surmise that it is likely that a number of breeds from a handful of countries may have had a hand in improving the Spinone Italiano in recent centuries, including: the German Wirehaired Pointer, the Russian Setter, the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon, White Mastiff, Pudelpointer, French Griffon, and coarse-haired Italian setters. Today the Spinone Italiano shares a spot with the Bracco Italiano as Italy's most popular gun dog. The Bracco is lighter and racier and less hardy; the Spinone is still favored for dense underbrush and work in water. The American Kennel Club recognized the breed only in 2000. The Spinone Italiano is a dog bred for hard work and extra stamina, and therefore has a lot of expendable energy. It should have at least one long brisk walk daily. However, when it is indoors it tends to be well-behaved and calm. This is an intelligent dog with an inquisitive, busy mind. Ideally the owner, if he or she does not hunt, will involve the Spinone is other vigorous activities. This dog should have a yard with a very secure fence this breed jumps high and digs tunnels, and it should be leashed when walked, since its strong hunting instincts predispose it to giving chase into traffic without a second thought. The coat of the Spinone Italiano needs little care. Not only is it quite resistant to dirt but the breed has a reputation for grooming itself meticulously "like a cat."� A weekly brushing to remove dead hair and any debris will be enough. This breed is a low to moderate shedder. An occasional bath may be given as needed. No special trimming is necessary. The ears of this breed should be checked regularly for signs of mites, ticks, and infection. Any sign of infection should be seen by a veterinarian. Neglect of ear infections can lead to a painful condition and permanent damage to the hearing apparatus. Ears should be cleaned once a week. The Spinone lives upwards of 12 years, and is a fairly healthy dog. As in all large breeds there is some incidence of hip dysplasia, particularly without careful breeding. There is a significant incidence of a hereditary nervous system disorder called cerebral ataxia that is fatal in puppies; tests are now able to identify carriers of this recessive gene with 95% certainty, and that should eventually lead to its elimination. The Spinone Italiano is slightly more prone to bloat than are other breeds. The owner should be aware of the signs of bloat (GDV) and know that this is an emergency, life-threatening situation when it occurs. The Spinone Italiano is an exceptional companion and family dog. It is rarely aggressive in any circumstance; in fact this breed is so friendly that it is not considered to be a good guard dog prospect. The Spinone is patient with children, tolerant of other household pets, and happy to have another dog to play with. This intelligent dog is very eager to bond with its owner and to receive direction; it is easy and pleasant to train. The Spinone is a wonderful household companion, and can make a great therapy dog. Owners will enjoy tracking and scenting, search and rescue, water dog sports, jogging and hiking with this incredibly versatile breed.

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