Volpino Italiano: the dog of the Renaissance courts

Dog very ancient (there are traces of it even in the Bronze Age), the Italian Pomeranian, also known as the "volpino di Firenze", had its magic moment during the Renaissance, so much so that it was immortalised in several paintings of the time and was, according to several biographers of the artist, the dog by Michelangelo Buonarroti.

Even at that time the Italian Volpino had that quality that it has never lost: being a dog faithful, cheerful, playful, but also very attentive to its owner. A perfect dog As a companion. And in fact, throughout the Renaissance period, and even after, the "Volpino di Firenze" accompanied Tuscan carters and shepherds. Ready to warn them of danger to their loads or flocks. Today, thanks to these qualities, the Italian Volpino is a dog as a companion, ideal in homes where there are elderly people or children, with whom he enjoys playing a lot.

History

Features

The Italian Volpino is a dog small in size: around 30 centimetres, and usually weighing no more than four kilograms.

• It has a long, pointed muzzle, with large, round, dark eyes, with black-rimmed eyelids.
• The ears are small, triangular and carried erect.
• The trunk is short, the limbs correct and relatively long.
• The tail is curled over the back, and the long, soft fur covers the entire body except the muzzle, ears, and feet. The Volpino Italiano's colors are white (the pure white is the most common), black, and fawn.
• The eyes are of normal size, and dark ochre in colour.

Types of Pomeranian

If the Italian Volpino is only one, there are many other Volpini, but they all belong to the Spitz group, that is the FCI group which includes Volpini and other dogs. races.

Here is a list of the types of Pomeranians found throughout the world:

• European Spitz, which includes the German Spitz such as the Giant Spitz, the large, medium, small and miniature Spitz, and the Italian Spitz itself
• Asian Spitz, which includes several breeds including the Japanese Spitz or Japanese Fox

Character

Un dog Intelligent and lively, playful and full of life. Also very courageous and stubborn. He is not afraid of anything and if he senses danger he barks, proving himself ready and agile. It is no coincidence that he is recognized for excellent qualities such as dog on guard.

He loves the outdoors very much and physical activity, loves to play with the owners, running and having fun in the company of the people he loves. Affectionate and loyal, balanced and patient, he is an excellent dog family's.

Cure

The Italian Spitz generally enjoys good health and is also very long-lived. The only major pathology that can affect it is PLL, primary luxation of the crystalline lens, which unfortunately causes blindness.

Its long coat, however, does not require any special care. To keep it in good condition, it is sufficient to brush it once or twice a week, except during the shedding period when it is advisable to brush it every day. As for bathing, be careful not to do it too often; many owners wash the volpino even just 1-2 times a year.

Health and longevity

The Italian Spitz is generally a very healthy dog, and is in fact a very long-lived breed. Its average lifespan is 14 to 15 years, but it's not uncommon for Spitzs to live to 19 or 20 years.

The most common health problems for this breed are:

• Dental problems: Being a small dog, it is more susceptible to dental disease. It is therefore essential to take care of its oral hygiene.
• Hip dysplasia: Although not a very common problem, some specimens can develop hip dysplasia, a condition that compromises the hip joint.
• Eye pathologies: In some cases, Pomeranians may suffer from eye problems, such as cataracts or other hereditary eye diseases.

Supply

One or two bowls of food a day are more than sufficient for the Italian Spitz, considering that the caloric requirement of a 4 kg specimen is approximately 450 Kcal.

Be careful to avoid overly flavorful foods and maintain a varied but balanced diet, without too many changes, which should always be introduced gradually. As for the best type of food, quality kibble is excellent as it is easily digestible and rich in fiber.

Cost

A Volpino Italiano puppy typically costs around €700-800, though this can increase depending on the pedigree and specific characteristics. If you're interested in purchasing one, always rely on reputable and authorized breeders. Alternatively, you could opt for adoption; there are rescues dedicated to purebred dogs, including the Volpino Italiano.

Adoption

Read also:

• How to keep your house clean with a dog or cat
• Dogs in the Office: How to Bring Them and What Are the Benefits?
• How to make your dog and cat live together