Spinoni Italiani are hunting pointer-type dogs and members of the sporting group. [1] Even though they have a few characteristics that are similar to other dog breeds, they have multiple unique ones as well. This wikiHow will help you figure out whether or not a dog is a Spinone Italiano.

Method 1
Method 1 of 3:

Examining the Body Structure

  1. Male Spinoni Italiani should be anywhere from 23–27 inches (58–69 cm) tall, while females should be somewhere between 22–25 inches (56–64 cm) tall. [2] Both male and female Spinoni Italiani should have a weight that is in direct proportion with their structure and size in working condition. [3]
  2. Spinoni Italiani should have a long head, with an equal backskull and muzzle length. Spinoni Italiani should also have an occipital protuberance that is developed well, with down-faced and divergent muzzle and skull upper longitudinal profiles. [4]
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  3. Spinoni Italiani should have close to triangular-shaped pendulous ears, with tips that are a little rounded and set level with their eyes. They are also long, though they shouldn't be more than 2 inches (5.1 cm) lower than the line of the dog's throat. The ears should not be erect, and the dog should carry them close to their head. You should also notice fine leather and thick, short hair along with sparse long hair that should be more thick around the edges. The forward edge of the ears should be adherent to the dog's cheek, and they are turned back on themselves. [5]
  4. Spinoni Italiani should have large, well-opened eyes that are close to round and soft golden brown-colored, though darker-colored dogs have darker-colored eyes, while lighter-colored dogs have lighter-colored eyes. You should also notice close-fitting eyelids. [6]
  5. Spinoni Italiani have a thick tail without any fringes that follows their croup line and is carried either down or horizontal. When the dog is trotting, you should notice that the tail flicks from side to side. Usually, the tail is docked, making it between 6–10 inches (15–25 cm) in length. [7]
  6. Overall, Spinoni Italiani should appear to be muscular, have powerful bone, and be built robustly. When trotting, the dog should appear relaxed and free. [8]
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Method 2
Method 2 of 3:

Noticing the Coat

  1. Spinoni Italiani may be white with brown markings, white and orange, brown roan (which may or may not have brown markings), orange roan (which may or may not have orange markings), or a solid white color. If the dog has a brown coloring, ideally they should be a chestnut brown color. [9]
  2. Spinoni Italiani should have a harsh yet coarse-feeling coat. [10]
  3. Overall, Spinoni Italiani should have a single, flat coat, with shorter hair on their head, the front sides of their feet and legs, along the top of their muzzle, and on their ears. On the backsides of the dog's legs, you should notice a brush formed by their hair that is rough, with no fringes. You should also notice a mustache, beard, and eyebrows on the dog's face. [11]
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Method 3
Method 3 of 3:

Taking a Look at Temperament

  1. When at home, Spinoni Italiani are known to be sweet, friendly dogs. [12]
  2. Spinoni Italiani love their family, and they are quite loyal to them. [13]
  3. Not only do Spinoni Italiani love their family, but they're also very affectionate towards them. [14]
  4. Spinoni Italiani are very energetic and need daily exercise through things such as walks or games of fetch. [15]
  5. Spinoni Italiani are gentle and patient, meaning they typically get along well when properly socialized with kids ages 6 or older, along with other dogs. However, because they are hunters, they may see cats or other small animals as game, so you'll want to be aware of this. [16]
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      Tips

      • If you want to find out what your dog's breed is, consider dog DNA testing. This can help confirm whether or not your dog is a Spinone Italiano.
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