Spinone Italiano Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Spinone Italiano is a large, gentle Italian gundog with a bearded face, a wiry coat and a thoughtful expression. It was bred to hunt in rough terrain, and it is a calm, patient and affectionate companion.

Origins and appearance

The breed is ancient and was developed in Italy for hunting birds in thick cover. Spinoni are large and sturdy, with a long head, a prominent beard and eyebrows, drop ears, a thick, wiry, weather-resistant coat in white, orange, brown or roan, and a docked or natural tail.

Temperament

They are gentle, patient and affectionate. They love family and are good with children and other pets. They are calm indoors. They are sensitive. They can be stubborn. They dislike being left alone. They are slow to mature.

Exercise

They need an hour or more of daily exercise, with walks and play. They are steady rather than fast. They enjoy field work and hiking. Mental work matters. They need secure fencing.

Training

They are intelligent and willing but slow and sensitive. Use positive methods, patience and early socialization. Avoid harsh corrections. House training may take time. See also how to use treats in dog training.

Coat and grooming

The wiry coat needs brushing weekly and occasional stripping or trimming. See wire coat dog grooming guide. Wipe the beard after meals and drinks, clean ears, trim nails and brush teeth.

Health considerations

Topics include:

• Hip dysplasia. See hip dysplasia in dogs
• Bloat. See bloat and GDV in dogs
• Cerebellar ataxia, with a DNA test
• Ear infections. See dog ear infections
• Entropion and ectropion
• Cancer

Living with a Spinone

They suit families with space and tolerance for drool and beards. They do best with company. They are poorly suited to long hours alone.

A typical day

A Spinone enjoys a morning walk, a long nap, family time and an evening outing. Many shadow their owners.

Puppies and the first year

Puppies are large and clumsy. Begin socialization, handling and training. Provide chew toys, and avoid heavy exercise while growing. See puppy socialization checklist.

Costs and commitment

Plan for food for a large dog, grooming and vet care. See dog vet cost guide.

Seasons and travel

They tolerate cold well, but need shade and water in heat. They travel well when exercised.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include underexercising, neglecting the beard and ears, overfeeding and leaving the dog alone.

Choosing a puppy or adult

Ask about hip tests, DNA tests for cerebellar ataxia and the parents' temperaments. Meet the parents.

Beards, drool and mess

The Spinone's beard soaks up water and food, and many dogs drool. Keep towels handy, wash the beard and keep it dry to avoid odor and skin problems.

A trotting hunter

Spinoni hunt at a steady trot rather than a gallop, and they are known for a close working style. At home, expect a thoughtful, gentle dog that likes to be near you.

Is it the right breed for you?

A Spinone suits patient owners who want a gentle, bearded gundog and accept drool and grooming. It may not suit those wanting a tidy home. For a related Italian breed, see the Bracco Italiano.

Daily care checklist

• A long walk with time to sniff, plus off-lead play in a secure area.
• Wiping the beard and lips after eating and drinking.
• Weekly brushing and a check of the wiry coat for burrs and mats.
• Ear checks and gentle cleaning when advised by a vet.
• Calm, measured meals, with quiet time afterward.
• Plenty of company and a comfortable place to rest.

A slow-maturing gentle giant

Spinoni often remain puppyish for several years. They can be clumsy and mouthy, and many lean on people for comfort. Calm, repeated training works better than pressure, and patience pays off in a steady adult.

Choosing coat and temperament

Breeders may describe different coat textures and levels of drive. Ask to see adult dogs, discuss how they behave at home and in the field, and look for a calm, confident temperament rather than nervousness.

The takeaway

Spinoni Italiani are gentle, bearded and patient, and they need exercise, grooming and company.