Spinone Italiano
A shaggy, soulful Italian pointing gundog known for its gentle, easy-going nature. Patient and sociable, an affectionate family companion that is calmer than many gundogs but still loves outdoor activity.
Overview
A shaggy, soulful Italian pointing gundog known for its gentle, easy-going nature. Patient and sociable, an affectionate family companion that is calmer than many gundogs but still loves outdoor activity.
Good to know — a Spinone Italiano is needs plenty of space and good for first-time owners. Every dog is an individual, so meet a few and chat to a good breeder or rescue before deciding.
Temperament & family fit
In general, a Spinone Italiano is excellent with children of all ages and sociable with other dogs. They tend to be a quiet, and as a guide they are good for first-time owners. Early socialisation, reward-based training and supervision around young children make all the difference.
- Families with children of all ages
- Committed first-time owners
- Active homes with plenty of space
Exercise needs
A healthy adult Spinone Italiano typically needs around an hour a day (roughly 60–80 minutes), split across walks, play and a little training. A good sniffy walk, some play and a little training usually keeps them content. Puppies, seniors and dogs with health conditions need adjusted amounts — check with your vet.
Grooming & coat
Coat upkeep is regular brushing and shedding is moderate. Brush regularly (a few times a week) to keep the coat healthy and remove loose hair.
- Brush several times a week
- Bathe every few weeks or as needed
- Check ears, nails and teeth weekly
Feeding considerations
Like any dog, a Spinone Italiano should get most of its nutrition from a complete, balanced dog food suited to its size and life stage. Portions scale with body weight and activity, so a large breed will eat a fair amount compared with other breeds — follow the food’s feeding guide and your vet’s advice, and weigh portions to avoid creeping weight gain. Treats should make up no more than about 10% of daily calories.
Pros & cons
The good bits
- Exceptionally gentle and family-friendly
- Sociable, biddable and calm at home
Things to consider
- Wiry beard and coat trap dirt and drool
- Can be slow to mature and a touch stubborn
Similar breeds
Labrador Retriever
The UK’s most popular family dog — friendly, biddable and brilliant with children, but needs proper exercise.
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Golden Retriever
Gentle, eager-to-please and devoted — a classic family companion that thrives on company and exercise.
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German Shepherd
A loyal, courageous and highly trainable working dog that needs experienced handling and plenty to do.
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Greyhound
The ultimate couch potato — despite their racing reputation, retired greyhounds need surprisingly little exercise.
View breed guide →Frequently asked questions
Are Spinone Italianos good with children?
Excellent with children of all ages. As a general guide, Spinone Italianos tend to be patient and tolerant. Whatever the breed, always supervise dogs and young children and teach kids to interact gently.
How much exercise does a Spinone Italiano need?
As a healthy adult, a typical Spinone Italiano needs around an hour of exercise a day (60–80 minutes), split across walks plus play. A good sniffy walk plus some play and training usually keeps them happy. Puppies, seniors and dogs with health conditions need less — ask your vet.
Do Spinone Italianos shed a lot?
Moderate shedding. Coat upkeep is regular brushing — brush regularly to keep the coat in good condition.
Are Spinone Italianos easy to train and good for first-time owners?
Good for first-time owners. Spinone Italianos are generally a forgiving choice for first-time owners who put in early training and socialisation. Reward-based training and early socialisation help any dog.
Do Spinone Italianos bark a lot?
Quiet. They are usually fairly easy-going about barking, though any dog will bark if bored or under-exercised.
Are Spinone Italianos good with other dogs?
Sociable with other dogs. Early, positive socialisation with other dogs from a young age makes a big difference.
Do Spinone Italianos suit flats or smaller homes?
Needs plenty of space. A Spinone Italiano really needs plenty of space and a lot of daily activity — not ideal for a small flat.
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Every dog is an individual — temperament and needs vary. Please research thoroughly, meet dogs in person, and consider adopting from a rescue. This is general guidance, not a substitute for advice from your vet or a qualified trainer.