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Short History of the Breed

The Spinone is an ancient breed originating from the Piedmont region in Northern Italy. The Spinone was bred as a versitile hunting dog and has a thick coat and thick skin to protect it from harsh terrain and cold weather and water.

Physical Description and Size

Italian Spinone, or Italian Griffon is a large, rugged dog of distinctive appearance. He has a long head, with hanging ears and eyes described as "human like." In body he is a substantial, strong boned dog of square build. This deep-chested breed has a topline that slopes slightly up from below the withers to the muscular hindquarters. Everything about this breed indicates great strength as well as stamina. Suited for hunting in all climates and on all terrain. Its coat in fact protects it from the water and freezing temperatures of the swamp. It goes nonchalantly into cold, deep water, being an excellent swimmer and a model retriever.

HEIGHT:	22.5" to 27.5"
WEIGHT:	61 lbs. to 85 lbs.
COAT:	Wire-haired, thick, slightly wavy coat, 4-6 cm long along its body, longer on the eyebrow arches, lips and chin where it forms mustache and beard which give it that typical gruff and kindly look.
COLORS:	White; white with orange; orange roan; orange roan with orange patches; white with brown; brown roan; brown roan with brown patches. The preferred shade of brown is the color referred to as "Capuchin Friar’s Frock". Not permitted colors are: tricolor, tan markings, black under any shape and combinations. Also see Coat Color Genetics for some examples.

Temperament

TEMPERAMENT AS PUPPY
As a youngster, the Spinoni displays a restless nature typical of the hunting breeds. There is nevertheless an underlying calm to this breed that is obvious to all who meet him. This is a lovable, sweet, affectionate puppy who quickly becomes devoted to his family. Said to have a natural caution with strangers. the Spinoni should be well socialized to prevent shyness. Those who have lived with this breed agree that he seems remarkably "tuned in" to his owner. Even in the field, the Spinoni's style is to work close to the hunter. He trusts his family implicitly, but once betrayed will never forget it. Very gentle training should begin early on, as he can occasionally be a bit obstinate. He is not one to challenge for pack position, and he is playful in all categories.
TEMPERAMENT AS ADOLESCENT
Not surprisingly he is most restless at this stage of growth, while his hormones sort themselves out. Still very loving and affectionate, he needs a great deal of attention from his family. This is not a breed to amuse himself, he needs interaction with those around him. When well socialized, he is generally cautious but friendly with strangers, taking a moment or two to size them up. Most are not aggressive with other dogs, though owners should always be alert when introductions are made. He remains playful in all categories.
TEMPERAMENT AS ADULT
As an adult, this breed puts his restless stage behind him, maturing into a fine companion, calm and very gentle. He can also be sensitive. His somewhat independent nature is offset by his kind, agreeable attitude toward the world. Centuries of serving and living closely with man has produced a breed that is docile yet vigorous, non-aggressive yet courageous, and friendly yet vigilant. He remains fairly playful all his life. As one breeder put it, "Always a puppy!" This noble dog is a credit to his heritage.

Dog Care

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Health Issues and Life Expectancy

Additional Resources

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Italian Spinoni on WikiFido

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