Volpino Italiano — size comparison

The Volpino Italiano is a small, lively spitz with a pointed muzzle and small upright ears. Its dense coat stands away from the body, forming a full ruff and a heavily haired tail curled over the back. A compact outline and quick, short stride create springy movement. White is most common, although red is also a traditional colour.

The breed belongs to Europe’s spitz family and has been bred in Italy for centuries. Similar dogs lived in palaces and modest farmsteads, where watchfulness was valued. In the eighteenth century they accompanied carters in Tuscany and Lazio, loudly announcing strangers. Numbers fell sharply in the twentieth century. Surviving dogs enabled breeding to recover and the breed to return to shows.

Volpinos become closely attached to home and family. They enjoy play, take an interest in daily activities and react quickly to new sounds. Bright and inventive, they often express emotions vocally. They may initially be watchful and reserved with strangers. Among familiar people, cheerfulness, activity and a strong desire for contact are especially apparent.

Measurement sources

• Wzorzec i historia
• Waga
• Codzienna opieka i długość życia
• AKC — długość życia, pielęgnacja i historia