A strong, calm guardian that protects firmly without needless aggression. With its own family it is obedient and gentle, and it settles well into home life.1
how to spot oneSpino degli Iblei coat and colours
long, rough coat
Long hair of at least 10 cm all over the body and legs, with shaggy eyebrows, a beard and a moustache that give the face a bushy look. A strong, well-balanced guardian build.1
Colourswhitewhite with black patcheswhite with fawn patches1
a typical week and yearThe care rhythm
A typical home-care rhythm for a Spino degli Iblei. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
Brushingevery week
Bathevery 8 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
Ear checkFloppy ears trap moisture, so check and dry themevery week
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 7every year
per year, in your countryWhat a Spino degli Iblei costs
Running costs for a Spino degli Iblei, built from current prices in each country: food scaled to the weight of the breed, insurance to its size, the rest per country. The purchase price and unplanned vet bills come on top.
Estimates from the sources linked on each line. Food: a complete dry food at about 3,600 kcal/kg at the NRC maintenance energy for the average weight of the breed. Insurance: a typical adult policy scaled by size; real quotes depend on breed, age and cover.
by countryIs the Spino degli Iblei legal where you live?
No breed-specific rule names the Spino degli Iblei in the 61 countries we check. General dangerous-dog laws still apply everywhere, and some cities keep their own lists.
Laws change and local rules exist; this is a sourced overview, not legal advice.
how busy a day looksSpino degli Iblei exercise needs
A working guardian used to patrolling flocks outdoors, so it needs space and regular daily walks.1
the hands-on bitsSpino degli Iblei grooming and care
The long, rough coat and facial furnishings benefit from regular brushing to keep them tidy.1
where they are happiestSpino degli Iblei at home
Best suited to rural homes or properties with room to roam and something to watch over.1
who they like aroundSpino degli Iblei with people and other pets
Bonds closely with its family and flock; Italian sources mention growing use in pet therapy and activities with children.1
where it all beganSpino degli Iblei history
The Spino is seen as the local form of Sicily's old pastoral guardian dog, shaped by the many peoples and dogs that passed through the island. Nineteenth-century Sicilian paintings already show dogs of this type. Local breeders gained Italian national recognition in 2015.1
for the dinner tableFun facts
1
A black Spino appears in the 1884 painting 'In Sicilia' by Pasquale Libertini.1
2
Francesco Lojacono's 1889 painting 'La benedizione del bestiame', showing dogs of this type, is held at the Musée Condé in France.1
3
White must always show on the feet, chest, head and tail tip, and an all-white dog is also allowed.1
the story behind itWhere the name comes from
The name 'Spino degli Iblei' was chosen in 1991 by cynologists to indicate the breed's geographic origin in the Hyblaean Mountains (Monti Iblei) of southeastern Sicily, with 'degli Iblei' (of the Iblei) chosen over 'Ibleo' to more strongly convey a sense of native and identity-based belonging to the area.2
My day begins before sunrise. I step into the cool morning air and circle the property, my rough coat brushing against the dewy grass. I sit at the gate, watching the road, a calm sentinel. My family greets me with kind words, and I lean into their hands, gentle as a lamb. After a long walk through the fields, I patrol the edges again, then find a shady spot to rest. In the evening, I lie at my human's feet, content. I am strong and steady, and my home is safe.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
the official bitsRecognised by
ENCI
Recognised by the Italian kennel club on 19 November 2015 in its supplementary register of recognised breeds (RSR). Not recognised by the FCI.3
Club del Pastore Siciliano
The breed association recognised by ENCI to look after the breed.1
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
the things everyone asksOwner questions
How often should I feed my Spino degli Iblei, and at what times?
Feed your Spino at least two meals a day for an adult, and three to four smaller meals for a puppy. Consistent times help their digestion, but the exact schedule can vary based on your routine. For amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.4
What should a Spino degli Iblei eat, and which foods are dangerous?
Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for their age and activity level. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts. Always avoid these and consult your vet for a complete list.5
How often should I bathe a Spino degli Iblei?
Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every 8 weeks, but the ASPCA recommends at least once every three months. Bathe more often if your Spino gets very dirty or has skin issues. Use a gentle dog shampoo.6Pet Wiki plan
How often does a Spino degli Iblei need brushing?
Brush your Spino's long, rough coat weekly to keep it tidy and prevent tangles. Pet Wiki's plan suggests brushing every 7 days. This also helps remove loose hair and keeps their beard and moustache looking neat.16Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Spino degli Iblei's nails, and how often?
Trim nails every 4 weeks, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick (the pink part inside). If you are unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for a demonstration.6Pet Wiki plan
How much exercise does a Spino degli Iblei need?
This working guardian needs daily walks and space to roam, ideally in a rural home. Pet Wiki's plan recommends daily exercise and play. They are calm indoors but thrive with a job or regular activity.1Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Spino degli Iblei's teeth and ears?
Brush their teeth two to three times a week with dog toothpaste, and check ears weekly for moisture or dirt. For floppy ears, dry them gently after baths or swimming. Never push anything into the ear canal.6Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Spino degli Iblei live?
Lifespan varies by individual, but senior years usually start around age 7. Regular vet check-ups and a healthy lifestyle can support a long life. For specific numbers, ask your vet or a good breeder. Pet Wiki plan
Is a Spino degli Iblei good with children and other pets?
Yes, this breed bonds closely with its family and is gentle with children, especially when raised with them. They are calm guardians and can get along with other pets if properly socialized. Always supervise interactions.1
Can a Spino degli Iblei be left alone?
They form strong bonds with their family and flock, so they prefer company and may not do well left alone for long periods. If you must leave them, provide a secure space and plenty of enrichment. For specific advice, ask a good breeder.1
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
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