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Spino degli Iblei
Hound breed from Sicily, Italy
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Spino degli Iblei
The Spino degli Iblei is a medium-sized, rough-coated hound from Sicily, Italy. Its estimated height ranges from 46 to 56 cm and weight from 20 to 35 kg, with a modelled lifespan of 12 to 14 years. The breed is described as courageous, independent, loyal, alert, and intelligent. It has a high energy level (4/5) and moderate trainability (3/5). Grooming and shedding are both moderate (3/5). Suitability with children and other dogs is moderate (3/5), while apartment living is less suitable (2/5). Recognition status varies by registry.
Quick facts
Spino degli Iblei at a glance
Sizemedium
Breed groupHound
OriginSicily, Italy
Lifespan12–14 years
Male weight20–35 kilogram
Female weight20–35 kilogram
Male height46–56 centimetre
Female height46–56 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Spino degli Iblei is an ancient Sicilian hunting breed developed in the Iblean Mountains for wild boar and game hunting. Its history includes a period of near extinction, followed by dedicated recovery efforts. The breed is recognized by Italian breed registries, but its recognition status varies by other registries. The exact timeline of its development and recovery is not specified in available sources. The breed's origins are firmly rooted in Sicily, Italy, where it was used for tracking and hunting game in rugged terrain. Its rustic appearance and strong territorial nature reflect its working heritage. While it is known as a hound, specific details about its historical working purpose beyond hunting are not provided. The breed's name and characteristics suggest a close association with the Iblean region, but further historical documentation is limited.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
20–35 kilogramAdult weight46–56 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesRoughCoat colorsPendingRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Courageousindependentloyalalertintelligent
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1–5 methodologyDaily care profile
Higher daily exercise demand
Moderate compared with other breeds
Moderate compared with other breeds
Moderate compared with other breeds
Family suitability
Home and household fit
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Climate suitability
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
Health overview
Veterinary sources requiredHealth considerations
No Spino degli Iblei-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Veterinary disclaimer: This profile is educational and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian.
Feeding overview
Nutrition and feeding
Research in progress
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Decision support
Potential advantages and challenges
Potential advantages
- Commonly described as loyal.Supported by temperaments.loyal: true
Potential challenges
- Higher daily exercise and enrichment needs may not suit every household.Supported by energyScore: 4
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Growth chart
Spino degli Iblei puppy growth
Modeled estimates
Open interactive chart From puppy weight to adult size
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
Adult male weight20–35 kilogramAdult female weight20–35 kilogramGrowth modeladult-range-size-model-v1
Preview only. Open the complete chart to adjust age, current weight and measurement units.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
What is the size and lifespan of a Spino degli Iblei?
The Spino degli Iblei is a medium-sized breed. Estimated adult height is 46–56 cm for both males and females, and estimated adult weight is 20–35 kg for both sexes. The modelled lifespan is 12–14 years. These are estimates based on available data.
What is the temperament of a Spino degli Iblei?
The breed is described as courageous, independent, loyal, alert, and intelligent. Individual dogs may vary, and temperament is influenced by training and socialization.
How much exercise does a Spino degli Iblei need?
The breed has a high energy level (4 out of 5), indicating a need for regular, vigorous exercise. It is less suited to apartment living (2 out of 5) and likely benefits from a home with a yard.
What are the grooming requirements for a Spino degli Iblei?
Grooming needs are moderate (3 out of 5). The coat is rough, and shedding is also moderate (3 out of 5). Regular brushing is recommended to manage loose hair.
Is the Spino degli Iblei good with children and other dogs?
Suitability with children is rated moderate (3 out of 5), and compatibility with other dogs is also moderate (3 out of 5). Early socialization and training are important, as individual temperaments vary.
Where does the Spino degli Iblei originate from?
The breed originates from Sicily, Italy. It was developed in the Iblean Mountains for hunting wild boar and game.
Is the Spino degli Iblei recognized by major kennel clubs?
Recognition status varies by registry. The breed is recognized by Italian breed registries, but recognition by other major kennel clubs is not specified in available sources.
Data transparency
✓ Published · VerifiedSources and review status
APIThe Dog API ↗The Dog API Terms of Service (effective 2023-07-01)
VETERINARY SOURCEWSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines and Toolkit ↗Copyright; factual citation and original summary only
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.