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Spinone Italiano

Spinone Italiano is a large sporting breed from Italy also known as Italian Spinone, Italian Pointer, Italian Griffon.

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Spinone Italiano

Breed overview

Spinone Italiano is a large sporting breed from Italy also known as Italian Spinone, Italian Pointer, Italian Griffon.

An ancient Italian gun dog breed, possibly dating back to 500 BC, originally bred in the Piedmont region for hunting in thick brambles and marshes. Their name comes from 'spino,' meaning thorn bush, referencing their ability to work in dense cover.

People looking into Spinone Italiano usually prepare for Moderate exercise needs, Moderate grooming needs, 61–86 lbs • 22–27 in.

Italian SpinoneItalian PointerItalian Griffon

History and origin

Spinone Italiano is tied to originating from Italy, specifically Northern Italy, with sources often placing its development around 1200 CE.

Spinone Italiano is described here as placed in the sporting group and marked as an established breed.

An ancient Italian gun dog breed, possibly dating back to 500 BC, originally bred in the Piedmont region for hunting in thick brambles and marshes. Their name comes from 'spino,' meaning thorn bush, referencing their ability to work in dense cover.

Browse dog breeds from Italy Browse more sporting breeds

Quick facts

Breed group
sporting
Size
Large
Origin country
Italy
Region
Northern Italy
Origin year
1200 CE
Weight
61–86 lbs
Height
22–27 in
Lifespan
10–12 years
Breed status
Established

Traits and day-to-day fit

Energy level
3 / 5
Trainability
4 / 5
Good with children
5 / 5
Shedding level
3 / 5
Barking tendency
2 / 5
Moderate exercise needsModerate grooming needsChildren score: 5/5Trainability: 4/5

Coat and classification

Spinone Italiano is grouped here with these coat and texture descriptors.

WiryDenseClose

Spinone Italiano is also listed as recognized by these kennel-club organizations.

Recognized by AKCRecognized by FCIRecognized by CKCRecognized by KCRecognized by KCA

Appearance and build

  • Large, robust sporting dog with square build
  • Dense, wiry coat in white or white with orange/brown markings
  • Distinctive bearded muzzle and expressive eyes
  • Muscular body built for endurance in rough terrain

What this breed is known for

  • An ancient Italian gun dog breed, possibly dating back to 500 BC, originally bred in the Piedmont region for hunting in thick brambles and marshes. Their name comes from 'spino,' meaning thorn bush, referencing their ability to work in dense cover.
  • Nearly extinct after World War II when only a few dozen remained in remote Italian villages. The breed was painstakingly rebuilt by Italian enthusiasts who sought out the remaining dogs and established careful breeding programs.
  • Known for their methodical, deliberate hunting style - they move more slowly than other pointing breeds but are incredibly thorough and reliable. They're often called the 'perfect gentleman's hunting dog' for their calm, gentle nature.

Health and care notes

Spinone Italiano is noted here for Moderate exercise needs and Moderate grooming needs.

  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Eye Conditions
  • Allergies

Coat details: Wiry, Dense, Close

These are informational breed-guide notes, not veterinary advice.

Frequently asked questions

Where does the Spinone Italiano come from?

Spinone Italiano is closely associated with Italy, especially Northern Italy in the sources used for this page.

How big does a Spinone Italiano get?

Typical size details for Spinone Italiano on this page are 61–86 lbs, 22–27 in, 10–12 years.

What is the Spinone Italiano known for?

An ancient Italian gun dog breed, possibly dating back to 500 BC, originally bred in the Piedmont region for hunting in thick brambles and marshes. Their name comes from 'spino,' meaning thorn bush, referencing their ability to work in dense cover.

Sources and citations

References below include kennel-club profiles, breed standards, and supporting background links for deeper reading.
  1. American Kennel Club breed profile
    American Kennel Club
  2. Spinone Italiano reference page
    Wikipedia

Use the linked breed directories and standards for deeper reference. Breed guides are informational and do not replace veterinary or breeder advice.