Italian Spinone hereditary health and longevity guide

The Italian Spinone is a versatile gun dog breed from Italy, valued as both a working dog and family companion. Known for their friendly, loyal, and intelligent nature, Spinoni also excel as assistance dogs. Males can stand up to 28" and weigh around 39kg, with bitches slightly smaller. Their distinctive wiry coat appears in colours like white, orange roan, and brown roan, with characteristic long eyebrows and moustache.

Before considering finding an Italian Spinone puppy, thorough research is essential for responsible ownership and to appreciate potential health needs. Below we explore their hereditary health issues and average longevity to help inform prospective owners and breeders.

Italian Spinone average longevity and health

The breed typically has a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years, although some studies, including historical UK Kennel Club data, have reported averages closer to 8.7 years. This slightly shorter lifespan compared to similar-sized breeds is due in part to hereditary health conditions, yet ongoing health screening and breeding strategies aim to improve the overall robustness and longevity of the breed.

Genetic health concerns and diversity

The Italian Spinone benefits from a relatively diverse gene pool with an inbreeding coefficient lower than the ideal threshold for pedigree breeds, reducing some genetic risks. Nonetheless, several hereditary health issues require attention, including:

• Hip dysplasia with recommended breeding candidates scoring below the breed mean hip score (around 10.9).
• Elbow dysplasia, where an ideal breeding elbow score is zero.
• Cerebellar ataxia, a fatal neurological disorder typically presenting before 4 months of age, causing coordination loss. DNA testing helps identify carriers and affected dogs to prevent passing on this condition.
• Epilepsy, which can often be managed medically and disqualifies affected dogs from breeding.

Conformation and predispositions

This breed has well-balanced conformation without exaggerated features, though their deep chest places them at risk of bloat (gastric torsion), a potentially fatal emergency. Owners should limit exercise before and after meals and know the signs to seek immediate veterinary care.

Additional hereditary conditions

Other health challenges known to occur in Italian Spinoni, though lacking pre-breeding screening protocols, include:

• Atopy causing itchy skin allergic reactions.
• Entropion, an eye condition involving inward eyelid rolling.
• Panosteitis, an inflammatory bone disease often seen in young dogs.
• Hypothyroidism treatable with hormone therapy.
• Osteochondrosis leading to lameness in younger dogs.
• Increased risk of various cancers in older dogs.

Responsible breeding and care

Good breeders focus on health screening — including DNA testing and joint scoring — and breeding only from healthy adults to reduce hereditary risks. Bitches ideally should be at least two years old before breeding to ensure maturity. Prospective owners should seek reputable breeders or consider adoption options ensuring health guarantees.

With proper diet, regular exercise, health checks, and awareness of breed predispositions, Italian Spinoni often enjoy active, fulfilling lives well into their early teens.

Conclusion

The Italian Spinone is a generally healthy and resilient breed with a lifespan typically between 10 and 12 years. While hereditary conditions like cerebellar ataxia and joint dysplasias require vigilance, responsible breeding practices and health screening are key to maintaining the breed's wellbeing. Prospective owners are encouraged to prioritise research and quality breeding sources to ensure their new companion has the best start to a happy, healthy life.