Spinone Italiano health: what owners should know

Known conditions in the breed include hip dysplasia, bloat, eyelid problems such as ectropion (a drooping lower lid) and cerebellar ataxia, an inherited neurological disease that affects puppies within their first months and is fatal. Because a DNA test for cerebellar ataxia exists, responsible breeders test all breeding dogs so no puppy can be affected. Hip scoring is also standard practice, and many breeders have eyes examined.

Help your Spinone stay healthy with a lean body, sensible exercise and regular checks of eyes, ears and skin. See a vet promptly if the eyes look red, watery or irritated, if your dog limps for more than a day or two, or right away if you notice any sign of bloat.