As there is no Italian Spinone club affiliated with DOGS Victoria, please direct all enquiries to the VIctorian Gundog Club.
About Italian Spinone
Background
Italian Spinone (spinone - singular) (spinoni - plural). The Italian Spinone (spin-on-ay) is a utility gundog, meaning it will hunt, point and retrieve. Originating from the Piedimonte region in the North of Italy, it is an ancient breed, dating back approximatley 2000 years. The name Spinone is derived from the Italian word "spina" meaning thorn or prickle. The breed has a harsh, wire coat which protects the dog whilst hunting in a vast array of environments. Italian Spinoni have been in Australia since 1987 and are still considered to be a rare breed here.
Average Lifespan
The average lifespan of a Spinone s 10-12 years. They have been known to live to 15 years.
Breed Personality/Characteristics/Temperament
Spinoni are companion dogs. They are very sociable and thrive with constant human companionship. They do not do well in a kennel situation. It is essential that they are socialised well from an early age. Spinoni are highly intelligent and very easy to train, needing only to be shown what is required once or twice. They are very "soft" and sensitive. A gentle voice will earn the best results. Spinoni were bred for their impeccable temperament. They were required to go out with their hunter for days and weeks at a time and therefore had to have a patient, docile and sociable temperament as well as the desire to hunt / work. Spinoni can be good watchdogs, but not guard dogs as they are too friendly.
Compatibilty with other pets
Spinoni love the company of other pets/animals.
Care Requirements
Coat:
Spinoni have a harsh, wirey coat. Dirt, mud etc does not stick to the coat, it simply dries and falls off. They require brushing/combing once or twice a week. Bathe using a wire coat shampoo when necessary, keeping baths to a minimum as it softens the coat.
Feet:
Spinoni grow hair between the toes. This needs to be trimmed out regularly. Feet also need to be checked regularly for burrs and grass seeds.
Ears:
Spinoni grow hair in their ear canals. This needs to be plucked out. It is usually not felt by the dog. Ears should be cleaned regularly, especially if the dog swims.
Exercise:
Spinoni are active dogs, but will be happy with one good walk a day. They usually love any activity in water and are very strong swimmers.
Ideal Owner/s
Although the Italian Spinoni are bred to be a working gundog, they make an excellent member of the family. They are a companion dog. Ideal homes are where there is somebody around most times of the day, as the Spinoni thrive on company. Spinoni are known for affinity with children and are cited as being the only breed never to have bitten a human. In the field, Spinoni are slow and methodical. They work at a pace they can maintain all day. They made an ideal partner for a hunter who does not want a fast working dog.
In Conclusion
Now you know a little about the Italian Spinone and have decided this is the dog for you or you want more information, make contact with the breed club or your State controlling body for purebred dogs. They will be able to give you information about available puppies and also suggest dog shows where you can see the breed and speak to breeders. In this way you will gain a better perspective of the breed and its needs.
