Volpino Italiano
Cane de Quirinale, Florentine Spitz, Italian Spitz, Italian Volpino
The Volpino Italiano, like many of the smaller spitz breeds, was bred for the simple life of a companion. The volpino in their name translates to ‘little fox’ in and the breed was once known as the Quirinale Dog after the Royal (now Presidential) Palace in Rome.
Volpino Italiano Standards
- 11-12"
- 9-11 lbs
- small spitz
- triangular, prick ears
- tail curled over back
- straight, long, dense coat
- red
- white
History of the Volpino Italiano
The Volpino Italiano is closely related to the Pomeranian, but it has been disputed as to which is the ancestor of the other. Since both are likely descended from the German Spitz it matters little which came first. They were a favorite among Italian ladies during the Renaissance, who would adorn their bodies with ivory collars and bracelets. Although this breed remains popular in its homeland it has never spread outside Europe. This is partially due to the American Kennel Club rejecting its entry into their Foundation Stock Service because of its similarities with the American Eskimo Dog, another German Spitz descendant.
Related Breeds: