Introduction
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 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 average Spinone stands 22 to 27 inches high at the shoulders and weighs between 60 and 80 pounds. Their coat is very easy to care and only requires occasional hand stripping to remove dead hairs.
Temperament
The Spinone is a wonderful family dog and personal companion, but don’t expect this gentle and quiet breed to be a watchdog. The Spinone has a very gentle and submissive attitude, it loves to play and clown around, and yet this breed is extremely intelligent as well. They get along wonderful with other animals and young children, but like any breed they require proper socialization.
The Italian Spinone is not a high energy dog, but they need daily exercise and playtimes. They are often considered to be slow moving dogs, and while they have strong physical endurance they enjoy having room to explore at their leisure rather than space to run. This highly intelligent breed should be consistently trained, not only to ensure good behavior but also to keep them from getting bored. The Spinone is an extremely devoted and loyal dog, and they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time.
Health
The average life expectancy for the Spinone is about 12 years. The Spinone is generally considered to be quite healthy with very few health issues associated with the breed. Health problems that have popped up to some degree include hip dysplasia and bloat.
History
The Spinone was developed in Italy in the 1900’s. Their exact origins are unknown, but they were bred as hunting, pointing, and retrieving dogs. Unlike most breeds that are used for these purposes, the Spinone is slow moving and very discerning as to when they are on the hunt and when they are off the hunt.
Spinone Italiano
Quick Facts
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Weight: 60-80 lbs
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Height: 22-27 in
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Coat: Medium length, easy to care for
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Temperament: Intelligent, friendly, gentle
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Lifespan: ~12 years