The Spinone Italiano: thinking of getting a Spinone Italiano?

Place of origin: Piedmont, Italy

How big do Spinone Italianos get? 60 – 70cm

How heavy are Spinone Italianos? 34 – 39kg

Spinone Italiano Life Expectancy: 12 – 14 years

Colour: White, Brown Roan, Orange Roan, Orange & White

Please note: A dog’s exercise, training/stimulation and grooming requirements can depend on several factors such as age and health. The same goes for ongoing costs of ownership. For advice on one specific dog, we always advise chatting with a vet.

How much exercise does a Spinone Italiano need?

Originally bred as hunting dogs, Spinone Italianos have a fair amount of energy, love to roam off the lead and can occasionally mistake smaller animals for prey.

Your Spinone will need 2 decent-length walks every day. Make sure you’re able to access a large, secure area so your Spinone can roam off the lead and explore. If you live in an urbanised area without access to many open grassy areas, a Spinone might not be the breed for you. 

Training: how to train a Spinone Italiano

Spinone Italianos are typically easy enough to train, although you should keep their hunting heritage in mind. They’re independent-natured breeds and may get distracted from training – or just not be in the mood – from time to time.

As with any breed, the trick is consistency. Plenty of reward-based training will see your Spinone perfectly housetrained in no time.

Grooming: do Spinone Italianos shed?

Spinones are moderate shedders. You should find that brushing them once a week or so will suffice to keep their coat in great condition.

Spinones’ fur can grow quite long so it could be a good idea to visit your local groomers every few months. You’ll also only need to bathe your Spinone when they’re visibly dirty.

Complete your Spinone’s grooming routine with regular tooth brushing, nail clips and ear checks. 

Spinone Italiano temperament, socialising and ideal home environment

Spinones are typically very well-rounded family pets. They’re gentle, affectionate and patient. They may be a little shy around strangers but will likely keep their distance rather than behaving aggressively, and will become sociable enough in their own time.

A Spinone might not be perfect for you if you have small pets or children, but they should get along brilliantly with other dogs and older children.

Cost of owning a Spinone Italiano

When considering the lifetime cost of owning a Spinone Italiano remember to take into account:

• Breed-specific food
• Veterinary care
• Pet insurance
• Kennels or dog sitters
• Grooming costs
• Toys and equipment

As a rough guide, allow between £80 and £90 a month to cover the ongoing costs of owning a Spinone Italiano.

Need more info?

For more info on finding the best dog breed for you and your lifestyle, have a chat with your vet.

Find your nearest vet using our Find a Vet page, or speak to a vet online using Online Vets.