Longevity
Life expectancy
Its life expectancy is generally between 12 and 14 years, which is respectable for a dog of this size. Regular activity, a suitable diet and preventive veterinary care help it age well.
Build
A robust breed?
Rustic, hardy and well built, the Spinone copes well with exertion and difficult terrain. Its robustness does not rule out vigilance regarding certain hereditary conditions and the risk of gastric torsion, which is higher in medium- to large-sized dogs.
Watch points
What to watch for
Monitoring must focus as a priority on the joints, certain ocular and neurological disorders as well as on the ears, especially in an active dog that goes out a lot. As in large dogs with a developed chest, the prevention of serious digestive disorders also involves good feeding habits.
Hip dysplasia : A joint malformation that can cause pain, lameness and osteoarthritis in the more or less long term.
Hereditary polyneuropathy : A rare neurological condition that affects the peripheral nerves and can cause weakness, gait disturbances and exercise intolerance.
Ectropion : Eversion of the eyelid exposes the eye more to irritation and infections.
Gastric torsion : This life-threatening emergency mainly affects large dogs and calls for split meals as well as avoiding exertion just before and after the meal.
Otitis : Its drooping ears can promote moisture and inflammation if hygiene is not maintained.
Climate
Cold and heat tolerance
The Spinone copes rather well with cold and humidity thanks to its rustic build and its harsh coat. It tolerates heat correctly if efforts are adapted, but it must always have shade, fresh water and outings shifted in case of high temperatures.
Weight
Tendency to gain weight
Maintaining a stable weight is important to limit the load on the joints and maintain good endurance. It is advisable to adjust the ration to the actual activity level, monitor body condition and avoid overly frequent treats.
Daily life
Good habits to keep it healthy
- Split the daily ration into 2 meals to reduce the risk of gastric dilatation-volvulus.
- Regularly check the ears after outings and swims.
- Have locomotion and hips checked in case of stiffness, limping, or decreased activity.
- Maintain a stable weight throughout life.
Vaccination
Spinone Italiano vaccines: vaccination schedule
Which vaccines for a Spinone Italiano? Like all cats, the Spinone Italiano receives essential vaccines from 8 weeks old: Typhus (panleukopenia) and Coryza. The kitten primary vaccination for Spinone Italiano is given in several injections 4 weeks apart, followed by a first booster at 1 year, even if it lives in an apartment. Depending on its lifestyle (outdoor access, multi-cat household, shows, travel), your veterinarian may complete the protocol with vaccines against Feline leukemia (FeLV), Rabies and Chlamydiosis.
| Vaccine | Primary series | First booster | Then | Who for? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Typhus (panleukopenia)Core Feline panleukopenia (cat parvovirus) | 8 weeks · 12 weeks · 3 months | 1 year | every year | All pets |
CoryzaCore Feline herpesvirus and calicivirus | 8 weeks · 12 weeks · 3 months | 1 year | every year | All pets |
Feline leukemia (FeLV)Lifestyle-based Feline leukemia virus | 8 weeks · 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Outdoor cats, cats living in a group or in a cattery |
RabiesLifestyle-based Rabies | 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Mandatory for travel abroad, cat shows and most boarding kennels |
ChlamydiosisLifestyle-based Chlamydia felis (contagious conjunctivitis) | 8 weeks · 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Cats living in groups, catteries, show cats |
Adult Spinone Italiano vaccine boosters are annual for cat flu and leukemia if it goes outdoors; for panleukopenia, a booster every three years is often sufficient after the first booster. Your veterinarian will adjust the schedule to your cat’s lifestyle.
Which boosters for your Spinone Italiano?
Enter your companion’s age: we list the vaccines to do now and the next boosters.
Adopting well
Adopting a healthy Spinone Italiano
Screening for hip dysplasia is recommended, as well as particular attention to a history of hereditary polyneuropathy. Regular veterinary check-ups, combined with examination of the ears, eyes and locomotion, are relevant in this breed.
This information is provided for guidance only and does not replace a veterinarian’s advice. If you have any concerns about your pet’s health, consult a professional.
