A wiry Italian pointer of patient, gentle temperament.
Origin
Italy
Height
22.5–27.5 in (58–70 cm)
Weight
60–85 lb (27–39 kg)
Lifespan
10–12 years
Coat
Dense, wiry, weatherproof single coat
Energy
Moderate
Overview
The Spinone Italiano is a rugged, wiry-coated Italian pointing breed bred to work methodically through dense cover and cold water. Muscular yet unhurried, it hunts with a patient, deliberate style and a distinctive bushy-browed, bearded face.
Gentle, sociable, and affectionate, the Spinone is one of the more mellow gundogs, devoted to its family and good with children. It is a versatile worker with a calm disposition, thriving on moderate activity and close companionship.
History
An ancient Italian breed, the Spinone was developed as an all-purpose pointing and retrieving dog for varied terrain and game. Its wiry coat protected it in brambles and cold water, and its patient style suited walking hunters.
Where it comes from
Italy
Highlighted in the Spinone Italiano's lineage color on the map.
Temperament
The Spinone is easygoing, loving, and people-oriented, generally excellent with children and other pets. It is a calm, biddable gundog that responds to gentle, positive training and thrives on moderate exercise and family life.
Health to watch
Joint malformation occurs in the breed; screening and lean weight help protect the joints over time.
The deep chest raises the risk of gastric torsion; avoid heavy activity right around meals.
An inherited neurological disorder and ear infections occur; DNA testing and cleaning help.
General breed tendencies, not a diagnosis. Every dog is an individual — pair this with regular veterinary care.
Care essentials
Moderate daily activity, ideally with fieldwork or swimming, suits this calm but capable gundog.
The wiry coat needs regular brushing and occasional hand-stripping; the beard traps water and food.
The affectionate Spinone thrives on family involvement and dislikes prolonged isolation.
XPET builds each pet a digital twin — modeling their real biology instead of breed averages, so care stays personal.