Activities for your Spinone
A Hunter and More…
The Spinone is a sporting dog used to find game (most often birds), point, track, and retrieve on land and in water. They are so much more than a single purpose dog. In fact the traits needed to hunt — endurance, an excellent nose, connection to the handler — can and should be used in other venues.
A VERSATILE HUNTING DOG
Built for Tough Terrain and Tender Hearts
The Spinone was originally bred to hunt birds and small game in the mountains and marshes of Italy’s Piemonte region. A solid, sturdy, methodical hunter: the Spinone doesn’t balk at heavy cover and has the stamina to work until there’s something for supper.
Spinoni are methodical hunters, capable of running large in big fields. In the presence of scent, they slow down and work carefully, using that big nose to its best advantage. They combine tenacity and independence with a desire to please their hunting partner.
The American Kennel Club (AKC) holds hunt tests and field trials for pointing breeds. The Junior, Senior, and Master Hunter titles require patience and teamwork from both dog and handler.
The North American Versatile Hunting Dog Association (NAVHDA) likely has a local chapter in your area which holds training events and the Natural Ability, Utility, and Utility Prep Tests.
A RUSTIC & PURPOSE-BRED DOG
Unique Among Sporting Breeds
The characteristics that identify the Spinone in the show ring and in the field reflect their great history. Their connection to the earth is palpable in their movement, which is breathtaking to the true Spinone aficionado.
Dog shows demonstrate breed standard and breeding potential as judges evaluate the dog’s conformation (overall appearance and structure) as an indication of the dog's ability to produce quality puppies. From large to small, national to local, all-breed and group shows offer dogs and handlers a chance to have fun while competing in the ring.
Showing dogs combines the thrill of competition and the joy of seeing beautiful and well-bred dogs. Dog shows are one of many types of AKC dog events in which AKC registered dogs can compete.
Specialty shows are restricted to dogs of a specific breed or varieties of one breed. The annual Spinone National Specialty (held each Spring) is a wonderful opportunity to compete with the top Spinoni across America.
AN ATHLETE & SPORTING DOG
Quick to Learn, Eager for Praise
Historically, the Spinone was often a family’s only dog — used for carting as well as to hunt the mountainsides — so they had to be truly versatile. They want to please their handlers, but usually themselves even more, so they need motivation to cooperate and not just obey.
Spinoni are steady and efficient while getting the job done. They aren’t flashy with their relaxed gait and laid-back, playful personality. A Spinone may not work like a Border Collie, but they can and do compete successfully receiving high scores and class placements.
Obedience, Rally, and Agility training, whether for competition or just to learn manners, can be fun, challenging, and frustrating. These activities will enhance your relationship and make everyday life easier. The Spinone traits and personality can be both a help and a hindrance in the ring.
While not the fastest or most coordinated of breeds (as anyone who has watched two or more Spinoni playing together knows), the Spinone is suited to FastCAT, Dock Diving, Scentwork, and other sports. They learn quickly, often showing a Spinone a skill once or twice is all they need to learn it.
A WELL-MANNERED WORKING DOG
Known for their Intelligence and Gentleness
The Spinone’s soft, gentle, and melting expression reflect the temperament that is so cherished by their family, breeder, native country, and beyond.
Working dogs must be friendly, patient, confident, gentle, and at ease in all situations, something many Spinoni excel at, finding gainful employment while providing a valuable service.
Therapy dogs are not service dogs and it is unethical to attempt to pass off a therapy dog as a service dog.
Therapy dogs volunteer in settings such as schools, hospitals, and nursing homes. From supporting a child learning to read to visiting a senior in assisted living, therapy teams work together to improve the lives of other people.
Service dogs are trained to perform specific tasks to help a person with a disability. They stay with their person and have special access privileges in public places such as on planes, restaurants, etc.
A FAMILY COMPANION
Sometimes Stubborn but Always Endearing
In the past, the Spinone would join the family, their friends, and their children after a very long day fulfilling their purpose and bringing home “food for the pot.”
The Spinone temperament makes for a wonderful companion. And while less energetic than other sporting dogs, they still require exercise and mental stimulation. Their natural ability to make us laugh shines when their smarts and curiosity are channeled into a purpose.
Spinone are generally easy going and usually live harmoniously with children, dogs, and other animals. Take care to properly socialize a Spinone puppy and create positive interactions. If treated with care and respect, Spinone enjoy the company of most children.
The AKC’s Canine Good Citizen Program provides an excellent foundation for training in other fun activities such as Rally, Obedience, and Agility and results in a well-mannered dog who is a joy to live with.