Volpino Italiano
Description
The Volpino Italiano, often called the Italian Spitz, is a small breed with a rich history tracing back to at least the 15th century, possibly even 4000 BC. This dog was favored by Italian nobility and common folk alike, prized for companionship and alertness. Compact and fox-like, they weigh between 8 and 16 pounds, sporting a dense double coat that comes in red or white without patterns. Their alert nature makes them excellent watchdogs, known for a distinctive, frequent bark that signals anything unusual. Despite their small size, Volpinos have a spirited personality and form strong family bonds. They thrive on interaction but can be vocal, which might challenge owners in quiet environments. This breed is relatively rare outside Italy, thanks to dedicated breeders who revived it after near extinction in the 20th century. Their lively demeanor and watchful eyes make them both charming companions and effective guardians.
Grooming
The Volpino Italiano’s long, dense double coat requires daily line-brushing to prevent mats, especially during humid months when tangles form more easily. Use a pin brush followed by a metal comb to reach the skin thoroughly. Bathing every 4 to 6 weeks keeps the coat clean but make sure to dry it completely to avoid dampness-related issues. Between full grooms, tidy the feet and sanitary areas to maintain hygiene. Their red and white coats don’t have pattern-specific care, but white coats may show dirt more readily, so spot cleaning helps. Pro tip: Schedule a full groom or a tidy session every 4 to 6 weeks to keep the coat manageable and healthy. - Daily line-brushing to the skin - Bath every 4–6 weeks with full drying - Tidy feet and sanitary areas between grooms - Watch for mats, especially in humid weather - Spot clean whites as needed
Learn the Double routine:
→ Complete Double Grooming Guide
Walking
Volpino Italiano owners should plan for one daily walk lasting about 25 minutes. This single session is enough to satisfy their moderate exercise needs and prevent boredom. Because they’re alert and vocal, walks also serve as mental stimulation, exposing them to new sights and sounds. Keep the pace moderate; they enjoy exploring but tire quickly due to their small size. Example routine: A 10-minute brisk walk around the block followed by a 15-minute leisurely stroll in a park or garden. This balance helps manage their energy while providing sensory enrichment. Bottom line: One focused 25-minute walk daily meets the Volpino’s exercise and mental stimulation requirements.
Boarding
When boarding a Volpino Italiano, provide a crate sized between 30 and 36 inches to ensure comfort without excess space that might cause anxiety. This breed enjoys interactive play and benefits from two active play sessions daily, combined with scent and brain games to keep their sharp minds engaged. Staff should be aware of their vocal tendencies and provide a calm environment to reduce barking triggers. Socialization with other dogs is usually positive but should be monitored due to their alertness. Enrichment activities like puzzle feeders or scent trails help prevent boredom during downtime. Consistent routines and gentle handling ease stress in a new environment, making boarding a smoother experience for this sensitive breed. Bottom line: Provide a snug crate, mental challenges, and calm care to keep your Volpino happy while boarding.