The Spinone Italiano, also known as the Spinone, the Italian Spinone, the Italian Coarsehaired Pointer, and the Italian Griffon, is a breed of dog in the Sporting Group. This friendly and loving dog breed is known for their exceptional working skills and willing to please attitude. Everyone, man and animal alike, is a friend to the Spinone. This breed was AKC recognized and approved in the year 2000.
The Spinone is a strong boned, well muscled dog breed with a square build, meaning the length of the body is approximately equal to the height at the withers. Brown and white Spinone are often confused with German Wirehaired Pointers. The long head and pronounced occipital are unique to the breed. Spinones have an expression that shows intelligence and understanding and is often described as having human like eyes.
Spinone Italianos are easy going, docile, and affectionate towards both people and dogs. Their extremely patient nature makes them well known for being loving and gentle with children. Centuries of working with man as a hunting companion have created a loyal, intelligent dog that is easily trained, though some can be stubborn about performing a learned task if they see no point in it.