Spinone Italiano are in the class of the all-purpose bird dog. They should perform the functions of hunt, point and retrieve. Other breeds that are also in this class are the Weimereiner, the Visla, the German Short Haired Pointer, the Brittany and others. The origins of the Spinone are debated, but it is the oldest of the Continental pointing breeds. It can be seen in Italian art as early as the 1400s.
It is the working ability of this breed which were of primary importance then and the preservation of these natural abilities has been maintained. It is known for its tight contact it keeps with its owner when hunting. Its harsh coat protects the dog no matter what the terrain. Unlike other breeds, where they are seeing splits between the field and show, a great majority of Spinone show dogs are also hunting dogs. Form and function continue to be important.
The Spinone Italiano was recognized in the US by the AKC in 2000, so it is relatively a new breed here in the US. It is still rare, but it continues to gain in popularity for their gentle nature.
|
