Last Updated on February 20, 2014 : :

The Italian Spinone is a large breed and has a pre-disposition to Hip Dysplasia.  By checking both parents hip scores you will have a fairly good idea whether your puppy may be high risk or not, that is not to say that just because the parents have low hip scores your puppy will not develop the disease.

There are several things you can do to minimise hip dysplasia.  DO NOT over exercise your puppy, free running in the garden is best for several months then gradually increase it.  Of course you can go to obedience classes and that too is exercise.

Remember that when you take the dog out it can’t tell you that it has had enough and is tired.  No really long serious walks for a year.

Do not feed a high protein diet or a diet for giant breeds this is thought to accelerate growth too quickly and may cause joint problems.