Italian Volpino
Also known as Volpino Italiano · Volpino Italien · Italienischer Volpino
Italy, European Spitz
- Size
- Small
- Height
- 25–30 cm
- Weight
- 4–5.5 kg
- Life expectancy
- 14–16 yrs
- Lively
- Alert
- Affectionate
- Vocal
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Italian Volpino
The Italian Volpino is a small spitz-type companion dog from Italy, historically popular as a household and farm dog. It is compact and fox-faced, with a profuse, straight, standing-off white coat, a plumed tail carried over the back and a bright, alert expression. Red varieties also exist in some places.
Temperament
Lively, alert and attached to its family, with a tendency to bark at unfamiliar sounds. It is typically friendly and playful, but can be wary of strangers.
Exercise
Needs daily walks and play, around 30 to 60 minutes. It adapts well to a smaller home when its exercise needs are met.
Grooming
Dense double coat that needs regular brushing, several times a week, and more often during seasonal shedding.
Care & wellbeing
A small, lively spitz that is quick to bark, so teach it early what is acceptable. Brush the thick white coat regularly and keep an eye on weight, as it is easy to overfeed a small dog.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 4.8 kg adult- Water
- 192 ml–288 ml
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 360 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 60–90 min
- a day
- Grooming
- Brushing most days
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Italian Volpino
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
A small Italian spitz-type companion, long popular as a household pet and watchdog. It has a profuse white coat and a lively, alert nature, and is a relative of the toy spitz types found across Europe.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Patellar luxation
- Dental problems
- Tracheal sensitivity
- Eye conditions
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Knee (patella) checks
- Dental checks
- Eye tests
Not every Italian Volpino is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
Lower than average- Smaller food bills and medicine doses
- Regular professional grooming adds up
- A 14–16 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Italian Volpino right for you?
Could suit
- Owners who can manage a good walk or two each day
- Smaller homes, as long as daily exercise needs are met
- Owners ready for a long commitment — often well into their teens
Think twice if
- You don't have time for frequent brushing or the cost of professional grooming
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Italian Volpino get?
Adult Italian Volpinos typically stand about 25–30 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 4–5.5 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Italian Volpinos live?
Typically 14–16 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Italian Volpino need?
As a guide, around 60–90 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Italian Volpino need?
Brushing most days. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Italian Volpinos easy to train?
Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.
Do Italian Volpinos shed?
Quite a lot. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control — expect more around spring and autumn.
Are Italian Volpinos good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Italian Volpino live in a flat?
Usually, yes — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Italian Volpinos have?
The breed can be prone to patellar luxation, dental problems, tracheal sensitivity. Not every Italian Volpino is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Italy
- Type
- European Spitz
- Internationally recognised
- 1956