The Volpino Italiano, or Italian Spitz, is a compact, elegant, and lively dog with a long history in Italy, where it has been appreciated by both aristocrats and modest families. This small dog is a joyful and alert companion, ideal for families and dynamic households.
✨ Breed Characteristics
- Origin: Italy
- Hypoallergenic? No
📊 Quick Facts
- Weight:
- Male: 5-6 kg
- Female: 5-6 kg
- Height:
- Male: 27-30 cm
- Female: 25-28 cm
- Life expectancy: 13-15 years
- Exercise needs: 1.5 to 2 hours per day
- Apartment living: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (It can live in an apartment but enjoys a fenced garden for more freedom)
🧠 Personality (out of 5 stars)
- Intelligent: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Affectionate: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Protective: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Playful: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Vocalizations: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Obedient: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Hunter: ⭐☆☆☆☆
- Calm: ⭐⭐☆☆☆
- Athletic: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Independent: ⭐☆☆☆☆
🐾 Compatibility with
- Children: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Adapts well, but may be a bit too active for young children)
- Other animals: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Sociable, but good socialization is important)
- Strangers: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (May be wary but friendly once familiarized)
- Apartment living: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Can adapt, but prefers an outdoor space to let off steam)
🧼 Maintenance & Care
- Ease of maintenance: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Requires regular grooming of its long, dense coat)
- Maintenance cost: ⭐☆☆☆☆ (Moderate maintenance cost)
- Care frequency:
- Brushing: Frequent brushing is necessary to avoid tangles and excessive shedding.
- Additional maintenance: Ear cleaning, nail trimming, and regular dental care.
💰 Budget
- Purchase price: 900-1100 €
- Average annual cost (veterinary, accessories, food): 250-350 €
🏡 Important note
The Volpino Italiano is a cheerful and energetic dog that adapts well to active families. Although it can live in an apartment, it prefers homes with a large garden to let off steam. Its dense coat requires regular maintenance, and it is important to provide sufficient physical activity to keep it in good shape. It is an excellent choice for those looking for a loyal and alert companion.
