The Volpino Italiano is a breed of dog popular in Italy, but not so much in the rest of the world.
He’s a clever, attentive dog who’d make a great watchdog. When a stranger approaches his land, the Volpino Italiano can indeed be loud and will raise the alarm. He dislikes strangers, particularly dogs, and will express his dissatisfaction when forced to interact with them while out and about.
To be a well-adjusted family member, he will require early and continual socializing. He’s a huge dog in a little box, making a great family pet.
Volpino Italiano History
The Volpino Italiano is an ancient breed that dates back to the 15th century. He is descended from a variety of Spitz-type breeds found all across Europe. His ancestors are unknown. According to researchers, the Volpino Italiano is thought to have given DNA to numerous modern-day breeds, including the Pomeranian, American Eskimo, and German Spitz.
The Volpino Italiano was indeed a favorite companion of both Italian nobility and peasant farmers during the peak of his popularity. Michelangelo is reported to have liked the companionship of the Volpino Italiano and also had a number of them during his life.
When Italian immigrants arrived in America in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, they introduced the Volpino Italiano. However, because he was mostly brought in with immigrants, his worth was unknown, and he was never recognized as a distinct breed.
During the twentieth century, the Volpino Italiano’s popularity plummeted, on the point of extinction. Researchers are unsure why the cherished tiny dog fell out of favor, but it was estimated in 1965 that just five genuine Volpino Italianos remained.
A few breeders saw the breed’s frighteningly low numbers and fought tirelessly to bring it back to life. The breed began to regain popularity in Italy in the 1980s. The Italian Breed Standards (ENCI) was the first to acknowledge the Volpino Italiano in 1903.
In 1956, the Federation Cynologique International became the next organization to acknowledge him. The Volpino Italiano was admitted into the United Kennel Club’s register in 2006. Although the American Breed Standards has yet to acknowledge him completely, breeders are working hard to have him approved.
Volpino Italiano Characteristics
This little dog has a foxy look because of his square build, pointed ears, and sharp, straight nose. The head of the Volpino Italiano is formed like a wedge and is not rounded. His nose is in level with the tip of the nose and does not protrude past the front lips.
He has a dark nose all the time. His big brown eyes are wide and attentive. His black eye rims highlight his dark, inquiring eyes. The Volpino Italiano does have a thick, long, and straight coat. His coat should never have a curled or wave to it.
How Big Can Volpino Italiano Get?
A Volpino Italiano is a tiny dog standing 9-12 inches tall and weighing 9-14 pounds.
How Long Can A Volpino Italiano Live?
The lifespan of a Volpino Italiano is 12-14 years.
How Much Does A Volpino Italiano Cost?
Volpino Italiano is one of the more well-known designer breeds, so you’ll have to look for a trustworthy breeder. If your puppy budget is between $800 and $1000, you should have no problem locating a breeder with puppies within this price range.
Don’t be enticed to buy a cheap dog simply because it appears to be a good deal. You might wind up with a frail pup from a mill infected with various diseases. You’ll almost always wind up paying significantly more in veterinary expenses than if you had purchased a more costly puppy from a reputable breeder.
Volpino Italiano Personality/Temperament
The Volpino Italiano is a playful and energetic dog who enjoys playing games. He’s a normal Spitz, wary of strangers, even unusual canines. He’s a natural watchdog who will bark if strangers approach him at home or out for a stroll.
He has a habit of vocalizing frequently and will have to be educated early to avoid being a nuisance.
Volpino Italiano Nutrition
As a very active breed, buying high-quality dog food with such a high protein content can aid in the development of robust muscles in your Volpino Italiano. It’s up to you whether you give dry kibble, wet food, a combination of the two (or a raw food diet), and a Volpino Italiano will thrive on any of them.
Treats are a great way to keep your dog motivated throughout exercise, but make sure to account for them when calculating your dog’s daily ration. Letting your Volpino Italiano gain too much weight might put additional strain on their long backs, increasing the chance of injury.
A Volpino Italiano only needs 1 cup of dog food each day, and it should be high in protein and carbs.
How Do You Groom A Volpino Italiano?
The Volpino Italiano’s double coat needs weekly care to keep him from matting. His coat sheds, especially in the spring and summer, and he requires more grooming than a breed with a shorter coat. A pin brush & metal comb are necessary grooming equipment, but you may also require a slicker brush, dematter, and even detangling spray.
Keeping hairs from gathering on your furnishings or clothing during severe shedding requires frequent maintenance. To protect him from carrying in dirt & debris, check his feet once a week and cut around his toes & pads as needed.
Volpino Italiano Activity Level
The Volpino Italiano may become a highly energetic dog when not given enough attention or exercise. His activity levels are considerably more controlled when his family makes time every day to play a game or take long walks.
This little man is a trickster, so finding activities that let him perform tricks is a terrific way to keep him entertained while also getting him the exercise he needs each day.
Volpino Italiano Health Concerns
A Volpino Italiano is a generally healthy breed. Even so, get them to the veterinary for annual exams to ensure that any health problems are discovered early.
Similar Breeds To A Volpino Italiano
Best Dog Food for Volpino Italianos
The best dog food for Volpino Italiano is Hill’s Science Diet Adult Small Paws Chicken Meal & Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food. This Hill’s Science food is made of wholesome ingredients like barley and savory chicken meal. It has kibble size food that makes it easy to digest. This food guarantees whole-body growth and a healthy lifestyle for your pal.
- Crafted without the use of artificial ingredients like flavors, preservatives, and colors.
- Vitamins and antioxidants in the recipe improve the immune system.
- DHA enhances vision and develops the brain.
Best Puppy Food for Volpino Italianos
The best puppy food for Volpino Italiano is Diamond Naturals Small Breed Puppy Formula Dry Dog Food. This puppy food is made of chicken as the first ingredient. Learn nutrition promotes muscle health. It does not include fillers, wheat, corn, artificial colors, preservatives, and flavors.
- Ensures better vision and brain with added DHA.
- Omega fatty acids 6 and 3 nourish coat and skin.
- Enhances immune system with antioxidants.
Best Dog Crate for Volpino Italianos
The best dog crate for Volpino Italiano is the MidWest iCrate Fold & Carry Double Door Collapsible Wire Dog Crate. This crate has a fold-and-carry design that makes it easy to travel and relocate. It has a double door system to provide easy access.
- Contains a divider panel to grow your dog inside.
- Comes with a durable plastic pan.
- Offers higher security with the slide bolt latches.
Best Dog Bed for Volpino Italianos
The best dog bed for Volpino Italiano is Best Friends by Sheri The Original Calming Shag Fur Donut Cuddler Cat & Dog Bed. This bed has a donut-like structure. It promotes higher comfort and a protective atmosphere for your dog.
- Raised edges work as headrests.
- Relieves muscle and joints pain with added filling.
- Safe in dryer and machine.
Best Dog Harness for Volpino Italianos
The best dog harness for Volpino Italiano is Best Pet Supplies Voyager Black Trim, Mesh Dog Harness. This harness has high-quality material that makes it light while enhancing the airflow.
- Attach leash using 2D rings.
- Snap-in buckles add more to the security.
- Get easy operation with the step-in design.
Recommended Reading:
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