History of the Spinine Italiano Breed
The spinone (spi-no-nay) Italiano is a very early breed of pointing dog that originated around 500 BC. Found in Italian artwork of the 15 th and 16 th centuries, it is believed to be bred from the Celtic wirehaired pointing dog, the griffon, and possibly the German pointer. Others say Greek traders brought it to Italy during the Roman Empire period. Its development was not well tracked, however most agree that the modern spinone traces back to Italy’s Piedmont region. It became Italy’s all-purpose hunting dog, able to infiltrate thorny cover and locate all kinds of game. It can point, set and retrieve; and it has a good nose and good sense. The spinone helped during World War II by tracking German patrols, however this dangerous work led to a decrease in numbers. The remaining dogs were being crossed with other breeds, leaving the spinone Italiano in danger of extinction. In the 1950s, an effort began to reestablish the breed. The spinone is very popular in Italy as well as some other European countries, however it has not gained much attention in America. The dog is also known as the Italian griffon, due to the former use of the name for all hunting dogs of Continental Europe. In reality, the dog is an old-fashioned pointer – a slow moving breed like those used prior to wing shooting. “Spinone” comes from “pino,” the word for an Italian thorn bush. The breed was well known for having tough coats and skin that enabled them to flush out the prey hiding in the bushes.
Size and Appearance of the Spinine Italiano
The Spinone Italiano looks like a hound with its long head and muzzle. Its strong muscles allow it to run, hunt, and retrieve over land or in the water. It has human-like eyes and drooped ears. Its wiry, dense coat – colored in white or white with orange or chestnut markings – is waterproof to protect it from the elements. It has longer hair on the eyebrows and lips, which add to its intelligent and gentle expression.
Spinine Italiano Temperament
This gentle dog tries hard to get along with other pets and children and always aims to please its owner. It is intelligent, courageous, and very patient. The spinone can be stubborn and prefers to do things in its own laid back way.
Spinine Italiano Recommended Maintenance
The spinone requires a thorough weekly brushing, plus the dead hairs should be hand stripped to neaten the face and feet. It grooms itself like a cat, however its beard should be wiped clean after meals. The spinone Italiano requires a moderate amount of exercise each day consisting of a long walk and a good off-leash run. It also enjoys swimming and makes a great partner to run alongside a bicycle. It can live outdoors in temperate to cool climates, but is a very social animal and prefers to be near its family. A sturdy fence is necessary, since the spinone will give chase if it picks up a scent. It is gentle and affectionate, but known to be stubborn sometimes as well.
Spinine Italiano Health
• Life span: 12 – 14 years
• Major concerns: CHD
• Minor concerns: ectropion, gastric torsion, otitis externa
• Occasionally seen: cerebral ataxis
• Suggested tests: hip, (eye) |
