Spinone Italiano
The philosopher of gundogs — bearded, unhurried, impossible not to love.
Vital stats
| Size | Large · 58–70 cm |
| Weight | 28–39 kg |
| Life expectancy | 10–12 years |
| Energy | Moderate–high — 60 min/day |
| Shedding | Moderate |
| Coat | Dense, wiry single coat · white, white-orange, roan |
| Group | Sporting · FCI №165 / AKC |
Breed traits
Friendliness
Care
Mind
Temperament
An ancient Italian pointing griffon built for patient, methodical work in rough cover, the Spinone brings that same unhurried steadiness home. It is docile, deeply affectionate and famously good with children — a large dog with a soft mouth and a softer heart, whose stubborn streak surfaces only when rushed.
Habits & quirks
The beard delivery
Fresh from the water bowl, straight to your lap — a gift.
Eyebrow semaphore
Those expressive brows conduct entire conversations without a sound.
The thoughtful pause
Commands are received, considered, and executed in due course.
Leaning in
Thirty-odd kilograms of dog gently redistributed against your leg.
Care
| Exercise | An hour of steady daily activity — long sniffy walks and a chance to trot suit it better than sprints. |
| Grooming | Weekly brushing plus occasional hand-stripping; keep the beard and ear passages clean and dry. |
| Training | Gentle, patient and consistent — this soft breed sulks under pressure and shines with praise. |
| Health | Keep it lean for joints and check ears weekly; ask breeders about hip scores. |
Common questions
Are Spinoni good family dogs?
Among the best of the large gundogs — patient, gentle and tolerant with children. They do want company, and mope if routinely left out of family life.
Do Spinoni drool?
More than average, especially after drinking — the beard collects water and shares it generously. Keep a towel by the bowl and your dignity elsewhere.
Are Spinoni easy to train?
They're willing but deliberate — expect thoughtful compliance rather than flashy obedience. Kind, consistent methods work; harshness simply shuts them down.