Volpino Italiano Dog Breed Information

Posted on Apr 30, 2019, Modified : Jan 10, 2020 Zina

Breeds

Country of Origin	Italy
Nicknames and Other Names	Volpino Cane del Quirinale
Scientific Name	Canis Lupus Familiaris
Breed Type	Purebred
Group	Spitz Dog
Bred For	Guard Dog and Alarm Dog in Farms
Size	Small-Sized
Recognized By	UKC, FCI, Italian National Kennel Club, Volpino Club of America, North American Volpino Club
Life Span	14-16 Years
Ideal Weight	9-11 Pounds (male and female)
Ideal Height	10-12 Inches (male and female)
Fur Type	Long, Thick, Dense, Fluffy
Common Colors	Black, Red and White, Tan
Markings	None
Availability	Moderately Available
Achievements	Featured in Movies
Suitable for Apartments	Yes
Used in World War	No
Most Similar To	American Eskimo

The Volpino Italiano is a small-sized Italian Spitz-type dog. It is a friendly, active, and smart breed that can adopt an apartment life due to its small size. It is best suited at home with a family that has old people, so they always have a company.

If you are looking for a small dog that will do great as a companion and also watch the house than Volpino Italiano is best for you.

The Volpino Italiano somewhat resemble the Pomeranian but these two breeds have no relation at all. It has a thick and soft undercoat and slightly rough and thick outer coat. There is a ruff around its neck and the tail is furry. The body is built in a square shape with pointy ears and straight muzzle that give it a fox-like appearance.

Origin and History

The Volpino Italiano is thought to be the oldest breed that dates back to the 15th century. It is developed in Florence, Italy and it is believed to be descended from the ancient European Spitz. It was a very popular breed in those ancient time from noble people to ordinary people. They were kept as watchdogs in the farmyards. When some unusual activities take place, Volpino Italiano would warn the Mastiff-type large guard dogs with its high pitched bark.

The United Kennel Club has recognized the Volpino Italiano in 2006. It has not been recognized by American Kennel Club.

Is Volpino Italiano Child-Friendly?

The Volpino Italiano is a child-friendly dog and does well with older children but due to their small size, it is not recommended in a house with small children.

Kids might not know how to behave around dogs and might handle them roughly. If Volpino Italiano is to be kept in a house with small kids, supervise their interaction. Also, teach your child to behave around them.

Volpino Italiano is child friendly — Volpino Italiano with a baby girl.
Image Source: Instagram-@madofregene

Temperament, Behavior, and Personality

Temperament: The temperament of the Volpino Italiano is lively, playful, and affectionate. They do well with unfamiliar guest and other pets in the house. However, socialize them from an early age and introduce your guest properly to your Volpino Italiano.

Behavior: The Volpino Italiano is a family dog and thrives for their attention. If they are left alone for a long period of time without any family member’s interaction, they will get depressed and even separation anxiety. This can lead to excessive barking since they are very vocal and they will disturb your neighbor.

Personality: The Volpino Italiano has a friendly but watchful personality. They are highly vocal and react to any unusual activities going on in the are by barking and warning their owner. With family, they are very friendly, loving, and affectionate.

Volpino Italiano Playing with a kitten.

Trainability

Training Volpino Italiano is not a tough task to do as they have a high desire to please their owner. First, you need to establish a firm and consistent leadership so that they see you as their leader.

Train them gently and do not use any harsh or force hand. It will scare them or make them aggressive. Use positive methods of training with delicious treats and vocal praises after completion of every task. This will encourage and motivate them.

Facts

The Volpino Italiano is nicknamed as “Volpes”, which means fox.
It is considered a very rare breed with only a few remaining all around the world.
Many mistake Volpino Italiano with “American Eskimo” as they have a similar look.

Health Issues

General Health	Healthy
Common Health Issues	Patellar Luxation, Obesity,
Hypoallergenic	No
Vaccination Required	Kennel Cough, Rabies, Leptospirosis, Canine Coronavirus, Canine Parvovirus, Canine Parainfluenza, Canine Distemper
Shedding	Moerate Shedder
Drooling	Low Drooler
Grooming	Average Grooming Required
Weight Gain Potential	Low to Average
Separation Anxiety	High Chance
Allergies	None
Diets and Supplements	Protein: 18% Fat: 5% Glucosamine Digestive Enzymes Probiotics

The Volpino Italiano is generally a healthy breed with a life expectancy of 14-16 years. However, they might suffer from a few possible canine diseases which are explained below:

Primary Lens Luxation (PLL): It is a condition where the fiber that should keep the lens in its position falls and fails to support the lens in its place. It can be a painful situation that can lead to Glaucoma and retinal detachment. If early treatment is not done, your dog can be blind. Therefore, proper treatment after consulting a vet is necessary.
Patellar Luxation: The condition where the kneecap of your dog pops out of its place is called patellar luxation. However, some do not show any symptoms while others can have lameness and pain. If it gets serious, it will need surgery. Therefore, consult a vet before starting the treatment.