Dog Breeds - Volpino Italiano

Breed Attributes & Qualities

CARING WITH FAMILY + Independent Lovey-Dovey
The amount of affection a breed is likely to show towards family members or individuals they know well can vary. Some breeds might exhibit aloofness towards everyone but their owner, whereas others treat all familiar faces as their dearest friends.
LOVE WITH CHILDREN + Unwise Good With Children
Examining a breed's capacity for tolerance and patience when it comes to children's behavior and their overall family-friendly nature is crucial. It is important to note that dogs should always be supervised when around young children or children of any age who have limited exposure to dogs.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS + Unwise Good With Other Dogs
The level of general friendliness a breed exhibits towards other dogs holds significant importance. While it is necessary to supervise dogs during interactions and introductions with other dogs, certain breeds are inherently more inclined to get along with their furry counterparts both at home and in public.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT No Shedding Hair Everywhere +
Determining the amount of fur and hair a particular breed is prone to shedding is important. Breeds that shed heavily will require more frequent brushing have a higher likelihood of triggering certain types of allergies and may necessitate more regular vacuuming and lint-rolling to maintain cleanliness.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS Monthly Daily +
Taking into account the grooming needs of a breed, it is vital to consider the frequency of bathing, brushing, trimming and other forms of coat maintenance required. It is essential to evaluate the amount of time, patience and budget you can allocate for such care. Additionally, it is important to note that all breeds necessitate regular nail trimming.
DROOLING INTENSITY Less Likely to Drool Always Have a Towel +
Considering the tendency of a breed to drool is significant. If you have a preference for cleanliness, breeds that have a propensity for leaving ropes of slobber on your arm or creating large wet spots on your clothes may not be the ideal choice for you.
COAT TYPE +
Smooth
COAT LENGTH +
Long

FRIENDLINESS Reserved Everyone Is My Best Friend +
Assessing the breed's inclination to be welcoming towards strangers is important. Certain breeds tend to be reserved or cautious around all strangers, regardless of the setting, while other breeds are inherently more open and enthusiastic about meeting new humans whenever the opportunity arises.
LIVELINESS Only When You Want To Play Non-Stop +
Understanding a breed's enthusiasm for play, even beyond the puppyhood stage, is essential. Certain breeds will maintain a desire to engage in activities like tug-of-war or fetch well into their adult years, while others will be content with relaxing on the couch with you most of the time.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY What's Mine Is Yours Vigilant +
Examining a breed's inclination to alert you about the presence of strangers is significant. These breeds are more likely to react to any potential threat, such as the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. Additionally, these breeds tend to be receptive to strangers who enter the house and are accepted by their family.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY Lives For Routine Highly Adaptable +
Considering a breed's adaptability to change is crucial. This encompasses their ability to handle variations in living conditions, noise levels, weather conditions, daily schedules and other day-to-day life adjustments. It is important to assess how easily a breed can adapt to these changes.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL Self-Willed Eager to Please +
Assessing the ease of training your dog and their willingness to learn new things is significant. Certain breeds are inherently eager to please their owners and are more receptive to training, while others have a preference for independence and may be less inclined to follow instructions. It is important to consider the individual traits of each breed when it comes to training and their desire to learn new things.
STAMINA LEVEL Couch Potato High Energy +
Understanding the amount of exercise and mental stimulation a breed requires is essential. High energy breeds are always ready for the next adventure, engaging in activities such as running, jumping and playing throughout the day. On the other hand, low energy breeds tend to be more relaxed and content with lounging around and snoozing. It's crucial to match a breed's exercise and mental stimulation needs with your own lifestyle and availability.
VOCALIZATION Only To Alert Very Vocal +
Considering a breed's tendency to vocalize is important. Some breeds have a propensity to bark at every passer-by or even at birds through the window, while others may only bark in specific situations. It is also worth noting that some barkless breeds may still vocalize using other sounds to express themselves. Evaluating a breed's vocalization tendencies can help determine if it aligns with your desired noise level in a dog.
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL Loaf Needs an Activity +
Considering the mental stimulation needs of a breed is vital for their overall happiness and health. Purpose-bred dogs in particular, may have specific jobs or tasks that require decision-making, problem-solving, concentration and other mental qualities. Without sufficient mental exercise, they may resort to creating their own activities, which might not align with your preferences. Providing appropriate mental stimulation for a breed’s specific needs is important to ensure their well-being.

COLORS

PATTERNS

CARING WITH FAMILY

Independent

Lovey-Dovey

The amount of affection a breed is likely to show towards family members or individuals they know well can vary. Some breeds might exhibit aloofness towards everyone but their owner, whereas others treat all familiar faces as their dearest friends.

LOVE WITH CHILDREN

Unwise

Good With Children

Examining a breed's capacity for tolerance and patience when it comes to children's behavior and their overall family-friendly nature is crucial. It is important to note that dogs should always be supervised when around young children or children of any age who have limited exposure to dogs.

BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS

Unwise

Good With Other Dogs

The level of general friendliness a breed exhibits towards other dogs holds significant importance. While it is necessary to supervise dogs during interactions and introductions with other dogs, certain breeds are inherently more inclined to get along with their furry counterparts both at home and in public.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT

No Shedding

Hair Everywhere

Determining the amount of fur and hair a particular breed is prone to shedding is important. Breeds that shed heavily will require more frequent brushing have a higher likelihood of triggering certain types of allergies and may necessitate more regular vacuuming and lint-rolling to maintain cleanliness.

COAT GROOMING STANDARDS

Monthly

Daily

Taking into account the grooming needs of a breed, it is vital to consider the frequency of bathing, brushing, trimming and other forms of coat maintenance required. It is essential to evaluate the amount of time, patience and budget you can allocate for such care. Additionally, it is important to note that all breeds necessitate regular nail trimming.

DROOLING INTENSITY

Less Likely to Drool

Always Have a Towel

Considering the tendency of a breed to drool is significant. If you have a preference for cleanliness, breeds that have a propensity for leaving ropes of slobber on your arm or creating large wet spots on your clothes may not be the ideal choice for you.

COAT STYLES GUIDE

Smooth

COAT SPECTRUM

Long

FRIENDLINESS

Reserved

Everyone Is My Best Friend

Assessing the breed's inclination to be welcoming towards strangers is important. Certain breeds tend to be reserved or cautious around all strangers, regardless of the setting, while other breeds are inherently more open and enthusiastic about meeting new humans whenever the opportunity arises.

LIVELINESS

Only When You Want To Play

Non-Stop

Understanding a breed's enthusiasm for play, even beyond the puppyhood stage, is essential. Certain breeds will maintain a desire to engage in activities like tug-of-war or fetch well into their adult years, while others will be content with relaxing on the couch with you most of the time.

VIGILANCE INTENSITY

What's Mine Is Yours

Vigilant

Examining a breed's inclination to alert you about the presence of strangers is significant. These breeds are more likely to react to any potential threat, such as the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. Additionally, these breeds tend to be receptive to strangers who enter the house and are accepted by their family.

ADAPTATION CAPACITY

Lives For Routine

Highly Adaptable

Considering a breed's adaptability to change is crucial. This encompasses their ability to handle variations in living conditions, noise levels, weather conditions, daily schedules and other day-to-day life adjustments. It is important to assess how easily a breed can adapt to these changes.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL

Self-Willed

Eager to Please

Assessing the ease of training your dog and their willingness to learn new things is significant. Certain breeds are inherently eager to please their owners and are more receptive to training, while others have a preference for independence and may be less inclined to follow instructions. It is important to consider the individual traits of each breed when it comes to training and their desire to learn new things.

STAMINA LEVEL

Couch Potato

High Energy

Understanding the amount of exercise and mental stimulation a breed requires is essential. High energy breeds are always ready for the next adventure, engaging in activities such as running, jumping and playing throughout the day. On the other hand, low energy breeds tend to be more relaxed and content with lounging around and snoozing. It's crucial to match a breed's exercise and mental stimulation needs with your own lifestyle and availability.

VOCALIZATION

Only To Alert

Very Vocal

Infrequent

LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL

Happy to Lounge

Needs a Job or Activity

Considering the mental stimulation needs of a breed is vital for their overall happiness and health. Purpose-bred dogs in particular, may have specific jobs or tasks that require decision-making, problem-solving, concentration and other mental qualities. Without sufficient mental exercise, they may resort to creating their own activities, which might not align with your preferences. Providing appropriate mental stimulation for a breed’s specific needs is important to ensure their well-being.

COLORS

Description	Registration Code
Red	140
White	199

PATTERNS

About The Breed

The Volpino Italiano is a breed known for its diverse characteristics. They are highly energetic and enjoy activities like running and agility. However, once they have expanded their energy, they are also comfortable jumping up on your lap and remaining there for the rest of the day. This breed has a rich history that dates back to ancient times and it nearly faced extinction when Italy lost interest in it. Breeders of the American Eskimo Dog crossed it with Volpino Italiano in an attempt to create a toy-sized American Eskimo. However, in the 1960s, Italian breeders revived the breed to prevent its extinction. As a result, the Volpino Italiano experienced a resurgence and continues to be a viable breed today.

What to Expect When Caring for A VOLPINO ITALIANO

Owning a dog is indeed a significant responsibility that extends far beyond providing the basic necessities of food and shelter. Dogs as sentient beings require a comprehensive level of care that encompasses physical health emotional well-being, and mental stimulation.

Anticipating the Needs of Your Volpino Italiano: Insights and Tips.

Taking a dog under your wing is no small favor; it's a true commitment. These devoted pets count on us for life's necessities such as food and a safe abode, however, they are entitled to a greater level of care.

Health

	It's great to know that Volpini born in America have parents who are tested for PLL CLEAR (Primary Lens Luxation) through OFA.org, as it helps ensure the health of the breed. However, it's important to note that dogs in Italy might not go through the same testing process. Additionally, keeping the anal glands expelled is a part of their grooming and hygiene needs. Regular maintenance of anal glands is essential to prevent discomfort or potential health issues. Recommended Health Tests from the National Breed Club:

Grooming

	The Volpino Italiano's fluffy, white double coat with a short dense undercoat beneath the longer outer coat is surprisingly easy to keep clean. Regular brushing two or three times a week is recommended to remove dead hairs and prevent matting. This grooming routine helps maintain the coat's cleanliness. While occasional bathing is acceptable for Volpini, it is advisable to avoid excessive bathing, as it can dry out and irritate their skin. Like all breeds regular nail trimming is necessary to keep the Volpino's nails at an appropriate length.

Exercise

	The Volpino Italiano is an active and energetic dog that thrives on physical exercise and mental challenges. Without sufficient exercise and mental stimulation, they can become bored and may engage in destructive behaviors. To prevent this, it is important to provide them with plenty of exercise and mental challenges. A securely fenced yard and a variety of toys can help facilitate exercise and keep the Volpino engaged and out of trouble. However, it's crucial not to leave them alone in the yard for extended periods as they are an indoor dog. Volpini form strong bonds with their human companions and are at their happiest when interacting and being a part of their family's activities.

Training

	Volpini, the highly motivated canine exhibits extraordinary dedication when it comes to acquiring a delectable reward willingly maintaining utmost concentration for a duration of 10 to 15 minutes. Commencing training in the early stages is undeniably advantageous, nevertheless, even mature dogs are capable of acquiring fresh skills and knowledge through their continued learning process.

Nutrition

	To ensure optimal health and nourishment for the Volpino Italiano breed, it is essential to provide them with a top-notch dog food that is either commercially manufactured or prepared at home with the close supervision and approval of your trusted veterinarian. It is crucial to select a diet that aligns with the specific life stage of your beloved pooch, be it a puppy, adult or senior dog. As certain individuals are predisposed to gaining excess weight, it is imperative to monitor their calorie intake and keep a keen eye on their weight level. While treats serve as a valuable tool during training sessions, it is vital to exercise moderation to prevent obesity. Familiarize yourself with the safe and unsafe human foods for dogs and whenever you have any concerns regarding your furry friend's weight or dietary needs, consult your veterinarian. Lastly, ensure that your loyal companion has constant access to clean and fresh drinking water.

Historiography

The Volpino Italiano breed, while not directly descended from the German Spitz shares a common ancestry, making them relatives. With a history steeped in Italian tradition, these dogs have been bred and cherished in Italy for countless generations. They were revered not only within the opulent confines of noble palaces but also within the humble dwellings of common folk who greatly valued their watchful nature and innate protective instincts. Renowned Italian maestros of the brush including Michelangelo, Andrea Landini, Andrea Verrocchio, Vittore Carpaccio and H. Enrico Coleman Roma, immortalized these captivating canines in their paintings during various periods ranging from the 1400s to the 1800s. During the 18th century, the Volpini faithfully accompanied carters from Tuscany and Latium, tirelessly standing by their side and alerting them vociferously to the presence of any unfamiliar individuals encountered along the roads.