Spinone Italiano

Spinone Italiano Grooming Profile

Spinone Italianos are large, solidly built dogs reaching full maturity by age three. They have dense, wiry coats that shed moderately, requiring weekly brushing and occasional hand-stripping. Although not hypoallergenic, these moderate-maintenance dogs need regular exercise, beard cleaning, and 2 to 3 cups of food daily.

Breed Group

Sporting Dogs

Country of Origin

Italy

Breed Size

Large

AKC Recognition

Yes, recognized in 2000

FCI Recognition

Yes, recognized in 1956

Allergy-friendly

Worst Choice

8 / 10

Shedding

Moderate

5 / 10

Grooming need

30 mins/week

7 / 10

Low-maintenance

Moderate

6 / 10

Size

Large

7 / 10

Growth timeline

30-36 months

8 / 10

Grooming FAQ

Are Spinone Italiano hypoallergenic or allergy-friendly?

Spinone Italianos are not hypoallergenic. They possess a dense, wiry single coat that sheds moderately year-round. Because they produce dander and saliva, they are not ideal for allergy sufferers. Regular brushing and maintenance can help manage allergens, but they still pose a risk for sensitive individuals.

Allergy-friendly: 8 / 10

Do Spinone Italiano shed?

The Spinone Italiano has a wiry, dense single coat that sheds moderately year-round. They don't have a typical undercoat, which reduces the volume of shedding. Regular weekly brushing and occasional hand-stripping will help keep loose hair to a minimum.

Shedding: 5 / 10

How often should you groom a Spinone Italiano?

Grooming a Spinone Italiano involves brushing 2-3 times weekly to better manage the dense, wiry coat and prevent matting, and remove debris. They occasionally need hand-stripping to maintain the coat's texture. Regular ear cleaning is crucial, as their floppy ears can trap moisture. Spinone Italianos need brushing should occur 2-3 times weekly to better manage the dense, wiry coat and prevent matting.

Grooming need: 7 / 10

Are Spinone Italiano low-maintenance dogs?

Spinoni Italiani are moderate-maintenance dogs. Their wiry coats need regular attention, and their beards require cleaning after meals. They are active hunting dogs that need vigorous daily exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy and well-behaved.

Low-maintenance: 6 / 10

How big do Spinone Italiano get?

The Spinone Italiano is a large, solidly built dog. Males typically stand 23.5 to 27.5 inches tall and weigh 71 to 86 pounds. Females are slightly smaller, standing 22.5 to 25.5 inches and weighing 62 to 71 pounds.

Size: 7 / 10

When do Spinone Italiano stop growing?

Spinoni Italiani generally reach their full adult height by 12 to 15 months of age. However, they continue to mature physically and mentally, filling out and gaining muscle mass until they are around two to three years old.

Growth timeline: 8 / 10

How much should a Spinone Italiano eat?

An adult Spinone Italiano typically needs about 3 cups of high-quality dry dog food per day, divided into two meals. Adjust the portion size based on their activity level, especially if they are actively hunting. An adult typically needs about 3 cups of food daily.

Feeding amount: 6 / 10

How often should a Spinone Italiano puppy eat?

Spinone Italiano puppies should be fed a high-quality large-breed puppy formula three to four times a day. Around six months of age, you can gradually transition them to a twice-a-day feeding schedule to support steady growth.

Puppy feeding frequency: 3 / 10

Vet Insights

Spinone Italianos are large, solidly built dogs reaching full maturity by age three. They have dense, wiry coats that shed moderately, requiring weekly brushing and occasional hand-stripping. Although not hypoallergenic, these moderate-maintenance dogs need regular exercise, beard cleaning, and 2 to 3 cups of food daily.

Dr. Vojtech Gabriel
Reviewed by
Dr. Vojtech Gabriel
DVM · PhD · MBA
VeterinarianResearcherDog breed specialist
Verified