The AKC calls the Spinone a densely coated hunting dog that is sociable, docile and patient, sometimes stubborn but always endearing. It is a big, sturdy dog with a loose-limbed gait.
Business Class for a square-built dog
The standard says the height at the withers is 23 to 27 inches for males and 22 to 25 for females, with a solid build and powerful bone. It sets weight in direct proportion to size and working condition rather than a fixed number. One Spinone fits Business Class, about 30 square feet inside plus 60 outside. Two from one home share First Class: $72 and $61. A very tall male who wants room can also take First Class.
A harsh coat with no undercoat
The standard says a correct Spinone has a harsh, single coat and no undercoat, ideally 1.5 to 2.5 inches long on the body, shorter on the head, ears and legs, with a rough brush on the backs of the legs and no fringes. After a field walk it holds burrs and mud. Pick the Medium column on the bath chart effective January 1, 2024 for that wiry length: $50 in the 51 to 75 pound row, $55 at 76 to 100, $45 at 26 to 50. Pick the row by your dog's weight on the day, and please ask to confirm.
Sociable, patient, stubborn
The AKC page leads with a sociable dog, and the standard says docile, affectionate and patient. Most Spinoni settle quickly. A stubborn streak shows up at the leash on the way in, so use a snug collar. Walks are included and the grass field is a good place for a walking dog to sniff.
Drool, heat and the harsh coat
The single coat does not insulate like a thick undercoat, but a big dog still warms up. The NOAA Vacaville station (1991-2020 normals) records about 100 days a year at 90 degrees or more. The air-conditioned inside half is the midday pick; the doggie door lets your Spinone choose. The runs are heated in winter, and a Kuranda bed keeps a heavy dog off the floor.
Costs
A 5 night stay in Business Class is 5 x $59 = $295 on the 2026 rates. At 14 nights or more the rate is $53, so 14 x $53 = $742.