Spinone Italiano for sale in the Netherlands

Background and temperament

The breed was developed in Italy as a large calm Italian rough-coated pointer for methodical field and water work. That original task still shapes drive, pace and independence. Expect the breed behaviour described here and do not choose on appearance alone. Build recall, steadiness to game, retrieving and gun introduction carefully through rewards without trying to suppress hunting passion through harsh correction. Start socialisation, solitude and calm handling while young, using rewards and clear predictable boundaries. A stable dog can recover from new stimuli without continually barking, fleeing or threatening.

Exercise and daily care

Plan long terrain exercise and hunting-oriented scent work every day and inspect ears, eyes, feet, muscles and ticks after field work. Coat care is: Harsh rough coat with beard. Brush and trim. Also inspect ears, teeth, nails, skin and pads weekly. Keep the dog lean and increase running, jumping, cycling or heavy work gradually while growing. A garden does not replace shared exercise, mental work and rest. Teach an off-switch too, so extensive activity does not become chronic agitation.

Health and choosing a breeder

Request hip, elbow, ECVO and cardiac assessment and discuss cerebellar ataxia, epilepsy, gastric torsion, ears, thyroid disease and cancer. Request original results linked to both parents and verify date, identity and assessing body. A verbal promise or DNA panel alone is insufficient. Discuss longevity, behaviour, causes of death and relatedness across the family. Choose a breeder who records problems, socialises puppies appropriately and values functional build and temperament above colour, size or show results.