Spinone Italiano

Spinone Italiano
Photo: Andreas Schnabl / Pexels

Breed Characteristics

Size: (Large)

Life expectancy: 10-12 years

Height & weight: 56-70 cm, 27-39 kg

Trainability: Agreeable (trainable)

Coat length & type: Medium, Wiry

Activity: Regular exercise (daily walks)

Barking: Infrequent (occasional barking)

Hypoallergenic: No (not hypoallergenic)

Colors: White, white & orange, orange roan, white & brown, brown roan

Family friendliness: High (affectionate, good with family)

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About the Breed

Summary: The Spinone Italiano is a large, rugged hunting breed from Italy, developed for tracking, pointing, and retrieving in challenging terrain. It is known for its steady pace, endurance, and thoughtful working style rather than speed. The breed is friendly, sociable, and strongly attached to its family, often showing a calm and patient temperament. At home, it is relaxed and affectionate, while outdoors it remains focused and capable, combining working ability with a balanced companion nature.

Care: The Spinone requires regular but moderate physical activity such as long walks and outdoor time. It does not demand intense exercise but benefits from consistent engagement. The wiry coat needs periodic brushing and occasional hand-stripping to maintain its texture, and the facial hair requires basic cleaning. Training should be calm and consistent, as the breed learns steadily but not quickly. Routine health care, including monitoring joints, is important due to its size and activity level.

Conditions: This breed adapts well to different living environments if given daily exercise. It can live comfortably in a house or a more spacious setting, provided it stays involved in family life. The Spinone prefers companionship and does not tolerate isolation well. Its gentle and patient nature makes it suitable for families, including those with children, though supervision is recommended due to its size.

updated: April 13, 2026, 4:09 p.m.