Theories of the Spinone Italiano's Origins

The Spinone Italiano's origins are not certain, though certain educated guesses can be made. It is generally accepted that the breed's ancestors can be traced back to around 500 B.C. where dogs with very resilient bristly coats, similar to the Spinone Italiano, are described. The next documentation occurs in 100 A.D., describing dogs that are like sheep but more bristly. In following centuries, the breed was described as a hunting dog that did not hunt for itself but for its master.More concrete lineage, rather than the guesswork that was employed to try and trace the Spinone Italiano back through time, comes from the 15th and 16th century. In a painting by Andrea Montagna, a dog is pictured, which is very similar to the Spinone Italiano we know today. More paintings from that period also show the dog, and literary documentation from the time describes how the breed was held in high esteem during that period.

The Hunters Choice

The traits which made the Spinone Italiano so popular at that time also made them extremely popular with hunters of the period, and this popularity still exists today. Written accounts of the breed in the 16th century describe how the Spinone Italiano hunts in a slow, methodical, deliberate manor, placing one foot in front of the other carefully as if testing the firmness of the ground. He is described as a consummate hunter, avoiding dry branches that may make a sound if stepped on, and reacting to prey very quickly to ensure they do not become startled. This ability to hunt made the breed the first choice hunting dogs for many of Europe's avid hunters, who enjoyed the precision with which it took its hunting duties. The breed continued to be used for this purpose for many years, and spread all across mainland Europe. It wasn't until the late 20th century, however, that the breed actually crossed the sea to reach British shores. Four Spinone Italiano were imported and it is from these four dogs that the breed was able to establish itself in the UK, where they remain today.

The Spinone Italiano Today

The Spinone Italiano is a quite rare breed in most of the world, and completely unknown in other parts. In its home country of Italy its numbers are quite high and here it is still valued as a skilled gun dog. The breed has only recently reached America, where it has been accepted by some, although it is still mostly unknown. Those that are lucky enough to own a Spinone Italiano are treated to a loyal and loving family dog.