Spinone Italiano

COUNTRY: Italy
COAT: Hard, dense and shaggy
COLOR: All white, orange and white, orange roan, chestnut and white, or chestnut roan
OTHER NAMES: Italian Coarsehaired Pointer
REGISTRY: FCI, AKC, TKC, CKC
GROUP: Gun Dog
Height at withers:
* Dogs: 60–70 cm (23.5–27.5 in)
* Bitches: 59–65 cm (22.5–25.5 in)
Weight should be in the correct proportion to size and structure:
* Dogs: 34–39 kg (75–86 lb);
* Bitches: 29–34 kg (64–75 lb).

The Spinone is truly an antique. Although he stemmed from native hounds, probably of Segu-gio type, as did the Bracco, his history is not complete. For instance, what gave him his wiry coat? This may be evidence that the griffons of France and the Spinone are closely related, with the griffons springing from early Spinones—or both coming from common ancestors. The presence of the corded shepherd dogs in Italy could have accounted for the bristling wiry coats on these breeds. He is also credited with being a very old blend of coarsehaired setters from Italy, bred with those left by Greek traders and others from the Adriatic coast, and a cross to white mastiff. The truth in dog histories is entwined with legends.

The breed is noted for its superior nose and ultra-soft mouth. The Spinone is especially good in heavy cover or cold, wet conditions where his protective coat serves him well.

A solid white spinone italiano.

Even dogs that do not hunt are served well by their coat, as evidenced by a 12-week-old pup exposed to the cold and damp after falling into a well shaft and spending ten hours there. This same inquisitive pup enjoyed a tastier experience when he discovered the milkman's dehvery and "was soon having his extra pint."
Still hunted throughout Piedmont in Italy, he is beginning to be appreciated and fostered in England, in other European countries and the USA. There seems to be a split in his homeland between show and field interests, with a separate standard for each of the two types.

The Italian working standard specifies: "When the quarry tries to get away, the Spinone steers it downwind, mastering the direct emanation of the scent ... he moves forward with extreme caution, avoiding as far as possible dry branches or crackling leaves." Despite his size and usual "long, tidy trot," the Spinone can turn into a powerful, swift hunter should the quarry take flight.

He is given credit by various sources as a "thinker," and will use this ability to adapt to various conditions. He is called "Nature's gentleman." His expression toward his master is lowering of the head, with an upward look in "silent communication."

An orange roan spinone italiano with orange markings.

The Spinone is big but docile and affectionate. They love playing with other dogs, but in play they can "crush all opponents by using their considerable weight." They can be stubborn, however, and need training and direction. With careful selection and proper socialization, they are "big cuddly teddy bears." In fact, owners have few complaints, other than his "wet beard in their faces." The bristly head gives the appearance of a wise, old, whiskery grandfather. His tail is docked to about half its natural length.