The Volpino Italiano
 Parcodaini |
The Volpino has been known and loved by Italian royalty for centuries, being an especial favorite of the ladies. Although bearing a strong resemblance to the Pomeranian, the breed is much older and thus has a different background. The northern dogs found their way south very early in canine history. The Italian word for wolf is lupo, and the Keeshond is called both Lupino and Volpino in Italian, so Volpino may be an old term for wolfdog or wolf spitz. Despite his long history, the Volpino is unknown outside of Italy and is now quite rare even in his homeland.
This small Italian breed is unmistakably a spitz type, its face being not unlike that of a fox, with the short, straight, and pointed muzzle. The Volpino is usually pure white in color, but there are rare types that are sable. A fawn variety existed at one time, but this has now been lost.
The name "Volpino" originates from the Italian word, volpe, which translates as "fox".
These dogs should be about 11 inches tall and weigh 10 pounds.
