Gundog Group
Italian Spinone
The Italian Spinone is one of Italy’s most ancient and distinctive gundog breeds — a large, rough-coated pointer with a friendly, almost comical expre…
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Size
Large
🐾
Coat
Dense, Wiry
⚡
Energy
Medium-High
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Groom Every
8 weeks
Character
What is the Italian Spinone like?
The Italian Spinone is one of Italy’s most ancient and distinctive gundog breeds — a large, rough-coated pointer with a friendly, almost comical expression created by their droopy eyes, bushy eyebrows, and beard. The Spinone is a versatile hunting dog that works at a steady, methodical pace — suited to hunting across all terrain and in all weather. Their character matches their appearance — they are gentle, patient, and good-humoured, with a laid-back approach to life that makes them outstanding family companions. They are affectionate, loyal, and generally wonderful with children.
Social Skills
Italian Spinone with Other Dogs
Spinone Italianos are typically gentle and sociable with other dogs and people. Their cooperative hunting heritage means they generally get along well in canine company. They are wonderful with children — patient, gentle, and tolerant. They are friendly with visitors. Their expressive, soulful eyes are hard to resist. They do not cope well with harsh treatment — their gentle nature responds poorly to anything other than positive, patient handling.
Grooming Guide
How to Groom a Italian Spinone
The Spinone’s dense, wiry coat requires brushing two to three times per week. Professional grooming every eight weeks for a bath, light trim, nail clip, and ear clean is recommended. Their distinctive beard traps food and moisture — daily cleaning is required. Their long, pendulous ears are very prone to infection and must be checked and cleaned weekly. Their eyebrows require regular trimming to keep them from irritating the eyes.
Free & Personalised
Get a personalised groom plan for your Italian Spinone
Tell us about your dog and our AI builds a grooming plan — including personalised Magnesium treatment recommendations.
Pros
- ✓Gentle, patient, wonderful family companion
- ✓Sociable with other dogs and people
- ✓Calm and methodical working style
- ✓Wonderful with children
- ✓Distinctive, characterful appearance
- ✓Generally healthy and robust
Cons
- !Beard requires daily cleaning
- !Ears very prone to infection
- !Coat requires regular grooming
- !Can be slow and stubborn
- !Drool significantly, particularly when eating
- !Not suited to very hot climates