The Spinone Italiano can do with a small yard as far as exercise is concerned. They appear to be a friendly dog that gets along well with other pets and other dogs. There are always exceptions to the rule. They generally love older children, especially if they have grown up with them. As a reminder, never leave a child unsupervised with a puppy or dog.



*Approximate Adult Size. The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the Spinone Italiano is 24 to 26 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 71 to 82 pounds.

*Special Health Considerations. Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the

Spinone Italiano is no exception. Be on the look out for hormone problems, ear infections, shoulder Osteochondrosis and Canine Hip Dysplasia (genetic based looseness in the hip joint that can lead to arthritis pain and lameness). This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.

She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.

*Grooming. The Spinone Italiano has a thick coat not more than about two inches long. It is a single coat, slightly wiry and fits close. Some have this breed professionally groomed. Stripping an pulling of dead hair is necessary. She should also be brushed regularly. Brushing will help her maintain a clean and healthy coat, avoid mats, help you keep a closer eye on her health and strengthen your emotional bond with her.

Her ears should be checked once a week and be kept clean. If you have her professionally groomed, make sure ear cleaning and inspection is part of the package. No water or excess fluid should get in the dogs ears, and do not try to irrigate the ears. Ear cleaning is too complicated and critical to instruct here. Look for hair growing in the ear canal, excess wax, or moisture. If her ears have a discharge, foul odor or she seems to be in distress and you suspect an infection, or tumor, consult your veterinarian.

Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.

Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet.

*Life Span. The Spinone Italiano can live between 12 and 14 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.

*History. The Spinone Italiano come from Italy where they were used for hunting and retrieving. They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 2000

Some Registries:

*Spinone Club of America

*UKC United Kennel Club

*NKC National Kennel Club

*CKC Continental Kennel Club

*APRI Americas Pet Registry Inc.

*AKC American Kennel Club

*FCI Federation Cynologique Internationale

*NZKC New Zealand Kennel Club

*KCGB = Kennel Club of Great Britain

*ANKC = Australian National Kennel Club

*ACR = American Canine Registry

Category: Gun Dog

Terms To Describe: Affectionate, docile, muscular, powerful, robust, sociable, patient, intelligent, enthusiastic, clownish

*SPECIAL GOOD POINTS

Makes a good watch dog.

Very intelligent.

Can be good with children.

Some keep themselves very clean.

*SPECIAL BAD POINTS

Makes a poor guard dog.

Can be stubborn.

Be ready for wet beard kisses.

*Every dog is an individual so not everything in this information may be correct for your dog. This information is meant as a good faith guideline only.