The Spinone Italiano has a temperament similar to that of many other gundogs, but is somewhat gentler and less biddable. This is a breed that very much enjoys the company of its family, with whom it is very affectionate. This dog is also known for being very loyal and devoted. The Spinone Italiano is not necessarily a needy breed however. This breed is known for being very friendly and polite with strangers, to whom it very seldom shows even slight aggression. Many breed members very much enjoy making new friends, and this breed often assumes that any new person is a potential new friend. While a Spinone Italiano could be trained as a watchdog, this breed would make a very poor guard dog.
Table of Contents
Spinone Italianos as Watch Dogs?
The Spinone Italiano is typically an easy going dog breed that is lovable and calm. Very caring towards children, the Spinone Italiano is often s treasured part of the family. Affectionate even towards those the dog doesn’t know, this particular dog breed doesn’t have any major concerns with aggression or too much territorialness. Of course, knowing this, the Spinone Italiano is not generally a good choice for a guard dog or protector breed. The intelligence of the Spinone Italiano is something that needs to be addressed during the training of this dog. And while this breed will learn quickly, they are often better motivated by a reward system more than other techniques. That said, the Spinone Italiano does like to showcase their talents for you, so once they know that you will respond favorably, they are more than happy to follow your commands. They like to show boat at times, appearing to be regal as they point out their hunting finds, for example. If you can find out what makes them happy and allows them to show off their intelligence, you will have a dog that’s more than happy to oblige. Though the Spinone Italiano does have energy, it is not as neurotic or energetic as some hunting dogs or other domesticated breeds. Moving at a relaxed trot is more this breed’s style. However, many owners find that the Spinone Italiano is an excellent running or jogging partner as they can keep up the pace. What’s more is that this dog is not one that will run off when you are running together, choosing instead to move at a more relaxed pace. Another thing to note-the Spinone Italiano can be a bit of a slobberer, so remember that before bringing this breed home if that’s a concern. You will want to make sure that you are keeping things that you want untouched out of this dog’s mouth as well as the general vicinity-as well as keeping guests away from the dog if this makes them uncomfortable. The calm persona of this particular breed can be disquieting to some, as they are much more willing to go at their own pace than to resort to someone else’s. If you are an active person that likes a lot of interaction between you and your dog, this might not be the best choice for you. The Spinone Italiano is more of a deliberate dog than one that will take kindly to working at someone else’s pace.
Are Spinone Italianos Aggressive?
The Spinone Italiano is a very sociable and docile breed. It is very gentle with children and can get along well with other canines. It is also patient but should never be abused. In general, this breed is never aggressive even to strangers. If there is something it cannot do, it is guarding the home.
Spinone Italianos Background
BackgroundThe Spinone Italiano is one of the oldest pointing breeds. Evidence of his ancestry exists as far back as 500 B. C. In the 15th and 16th century pieces of Italian art portray dogs that closely resemble the Spinone Italiano. Since “Griffons” was the designated term for all hunting dogs of Europe, Italianos are often called Griffons. They’ve long been considered an all purpose hunting dog. The Spinone Italiano was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2000.
Family and Bonding
The characteristics that make the Spinone Italiano an excellent gun dog enable it to excel in other roles as well. For example, while the breed is best-known for being working animals, there are plenty of members who serve as companion animals. Something that speaks well of their temperament.
Friendly
Gentle yet serious best describes this breed’s temperament. They love a chance to explore and may become restless in the home if not given sufficient exercise. A friendly breed that will get on with almost anyone they meet, the Spinone Italiano is truly man’s best friend.
Spinone Italiano Nature
More commonly, their hunting instinct can send them chasing after ‘prey. ’ This can involve digging or jumping out of yards. Keeping them well exercised is the best bet to combat problems. Maintaining social interaction can help avoid nervously destructive behavior.
Intelligence
Spinone Italiano
The Spinone Italiano, or Italian Pointer, has a life expectancy of 12 to 14 years. Origin
The Spinone Italiano’s origin is a source of debate. Some believe the Spinone Italiano descended from Greek pointing dogs, while others claim the Spinone Italiano came from ancient Italian hunting dogs. Yet another theory suggests French Griffons and Barbets are the true ancestors of the breed. Very little is known about the true history of the Italian Spinone, what is known however, is that these dogs date back to around 500 B. C. and were used extensively to hunt across the harshest of terrain. Size
The Spinone Italiano weighs 55 to 85 pounds and measures 22 to 27 inches. Grooming Needs
The Spinone Italiano has a dense, wiry coat and thick skin for traversing through the toughest of conditions. The Spinone Italiano sheds minimally and only requires a weekly brushing and occasional bath. The Spinone Italiano also needs to be hand stripped a few times a year. The breed is fairly low maintenance when it comes to grooming, but their full beard tends to get wet and dirty easily. Luckily, a quick onceover with a towel is normally all that is needed to help the Spinone Italiano stay clean. Like all dogs, the Spinone Italiano also needs basic grooming. Brush their teeth, clean their ears and trim their nails on a regular basis.
Character
The Spinone Italiano is sociable and gentle. Temperament
The Spinone Italiano is a determined and energetic hunter. At home with their family, however, the Spinone Italiano is docile and humorous. The Spinone Italiano loves to have fun and thrives on human interaction. They are highly people oriented and will insist on getting attention, even if they have to put on a show to get it. The sweet Spinone Italiano generally gets along well with everyone, including new people and other dogs and pets. They can sometimes be shy or wary, but are overall quite even tempered and steady. Training Needs
The Spinone Italiano picks up instruction and training quickly. The Spinone Italiano is highly intelligent and responds well to a firm, but kind leader and lots of variety. Once the basics are understood, the Spinone Italiano can go on to participate in obedience, agility, conformation and tracking. Activity Level
The Spinone Italiano is a natural hunter, but is fairly laidback in the home as long as their exercise needs are met. The Spinone Italiano should have a long daily walk and lots of time outside in a secure area to run around and play. They can also be great companions for jogging, hiking and swimming.
Love
Spinone Italianos as a Pack Animal
Feeding spinone italiano puppies an adult dog food on a regular basis can cause
permanent damage. Therefore, you should always ensure that the AAFCO statement on
the dog food packaging clearly states that the food is formulated
for growth or all life stages.
Physical Traits
The Spinone Italiano is a medium- to large-sized dog.