Volpino Italiano

AlertAffectionateWatchfulLivelyIndependent

The Volpino Italiano is a small, fox-faced spitz-type companion that is alert, lively, and quick to bark at anything new. It tends to bond closely with its family and can be wary of strangers, so early socialization helps. It usually does well with older, gentle children and with other dogs, though it may chase small pets.

Day to day, it needs regular walks, indoor play, and mental work such as short training sessions or puzzle toys to keep it from becoming bored and noisy. Its thick double coat needs brushing a few times a week and more during seasonal shedding. Because it is so people-focused, it does not enjoy being left alone for long stretches.

Good for: Active singles or families, experienced owners who enjoy training

Size	small
Height	10–12 in
Exercise	about 60 min a day
Shedding	moderate
Origin	Italy

Before you choose a Volpino Italiano

Expect a vocal, alert dog that needs early socialization and daily mental stimulation, not just a short walk.

Living with a Volpino Italiano

Exercise

About one hour a day in total, split into walks and play. Off-leash running in a secure area and games that use its nose and brain are good outlets.

Grooming

The double coat sheds moderately year-round and heavily during seasonal changes. Brush two to three times a week and bathe only as needed to protect the coat's natural oils.

Health

Like many small breeds it can be prone to patellar luxation and dental crowding, and eye conditions are worth screening for. Ask your veterinarian which checks are appropriate for a puppy or adult from a reputable breeder.

Patellar luxation
Dental crowding
Eye conditions

Known tendencies, not a diagnosis: ask your vet about this breed.

The numbers for a Volpino Italiano

Feeding, adult

1–1.5 cups a day

About 456 kcal, roughly 9 lb of dry food a month at 9–20 lb (typical for the size). Start here and adjust to the bag and your vet. Portion calculator →

What a year costs

$1,250–$2,150

Food about $335, plus routine vet care, parasite preventives and gear. US averages; insurance and emergencies on top.

Weather

Watch above 75°F, stop at 85°F

Coat or short walks below 40°F. Small dogs lose heat fast: a coat below about 40°F, and keep walks short in the cold.

LIVE · New York

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Walk index

Heat, pavement and UV for your dog.

Right now

Latest dog food recalls

Aunt Millie s Bakehouse Whole Grain White Hot Dog Buns 6" Sliced 2 OUNCE. 12 unlabeled 12CT PKGS per sale unit case, product code 7502. Net. Wt. 18lbs.
Perfection Bakeries LLC · Sep 13 · Undeclared sesame

Breadman Brioche products in plastic bags: Brioche Toast, 2 lb. (1 loaf/bag), Brioche Buns, 40oz (10 buns/bag), Brioche Sliders, 50oz (25 sliders/bag), Brioche Hot Dog, 40oz (10 buns/bag)
Breadbox Co. · May 16 · Undeclared Yellow No. 5

Our Family White Hot Dog Enriched Buns, 8 count 12oz. retail unit UPC 0-70253-75107-3
Perfection Bakeries LLC · Mar 21 · undeclared sesame

All recalls →

Questions owners ask

Do Volpino Italianos shed a lot?

They shed moderately most of the year and more heavily twice annually. Regular brushing two to three times a week keeps loose hair and tangles under control.

Can a Volpino Italiano live in an apartment?

Yes, since it is small, but it barks readily at noises outside. Consistent training and daily walks help it settle in a quieter indoor setting.

Are Volpino Italianos good with kids?

They can be good with respectful, older children who know how to handle a small dog. Supervise play with younger kids, as the dog may nip or herd if overexcited.