 Volpino puppy at Monte Frondoso |
Volpinos are a very healthy breed: there are no known common genetic
defects. This is not surprising since they are recent descendents
of unpampered farm dogs from a "survival of the fittest" environment.
They have not been subject to line-breeding or down-sizing for the
past 100-200 years as have many toy dogs, a practice which sometimes leads
to common genetic problems in some breeds.
As with any dog (or human for that matter), dental hygiene is important. Dental bacteria can lead to heart and other problems. A recent study by one Italian canine opthamologist suggests their eyes should be checked for cataracts and other lesions, especially as they grow older. |
Volpinos are long lived dogs averaging a life span of about 15 years with good health care.
|
A Volpino's coat should be brushed regularly to reduce shedding. Volpinos
often go through a period of "molt". Males molt about every 18 months,
females about every 4-12 months, usually 2 months after going into heat
or right after raising a litter of pups.
Volpinos do not need to be bathed often (in fact over bathing can cause excess shedding), every two months at the most. Their glassy long hairs naturally repel dirt and debris. |  Nebbia at Monte Frondoso in a period of molt |