Volpino Italiano vs Harlequin Pinscher - Breed Comparison

Volpino Italiano vs Harlequin Pinscher - Breed ComparisonHarlequin Pinscher is originated from Germany but Volpino Italiano is originated from Italy. Both Harlequin Pinscher and Volpino Italiano are having almost same height. Harlequin Pinscher may weigh 7 kg / 15 pounds lesser than Volpino Italiano. Both Harlequin Pinscher and Volpino Italiano has almost same life span. Both Harlequin Pinscher and Volpino Italiano has same litter size. Harlequin Pinscher requires Low Maintenance. But Volpino Italiano requires High Maintenance

Basic Information

Group:
Terrier dog
Toy dog
undefined
Germany
Italy
Height Male:
25 - 33 cm
9 - 13 inches
25 - 30 cm
9 - 12 inches
Height Female:
25 - 23 cm
9 - 10 inches
23 - 28 cm
9 - 12 inches
Weight Male:
3 - 5 kg
6 - 12 pounds
9 - 12 kg
19 - 27 pounds
Weight Female:
3 - 5 kg
6 - 12 pounds
7 - 10 kg
15 - 23 pounds
Life Span:
12 - 15 Years
14 - 16 Years
Litter Size:
2 - 6
4 - 6
Size:
Toy
Toy
Other Names:
Spotted Pinscher, Merle Pinscher, Harlequin Miniature Pinscher, Harlequin Min Pin
Cane del Quirinale Florentine Spitz Italian Spitz Pom Spitz Volpino
Colors Available:
brown, Black, brindle or piebald, fawn patterns of merle, red
fawn, mostly white in past were black, honey, sable, champagne, red
Coat:
Short and smooth
long and bushy coat
Shedding:
Minimal
Seasonal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Sweet, Territorial
Affectionate, Curious, Energetic, Intelligent, Loyal, Playful
Grooming:
Low Maintenance
High Maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

History

harlequin pinscherThis toy-sized dog is a type of Miniature Pinscher originating in Germany. The dog was developed by crossing traditional Miniature Pinschers with other toy-sized short-haired terriers. He falls into the Terrier category.

The dog was used to kill rats, but has always been a devoted pet at the same time. They nearly became extinct after World War II, but the breed was once again restored. Today it is an established breed, but it isn’t recognized by any of the major kennel clubs.

In fact, The Harlequin Pinscher Association is the only breed club that recognizes the Harlequin Pinscher. It can be registered with the Harlequins Pinschers Association or with the American Canine Association.

volpino italianoThis Italian bred dog is Spitz-type and very ancient. The Spitz breeds have been around since at least 4000BC. Archeologists have found remains that match the Spitz heritage of fox like heads, curly tails, erect small ears. In Greece in 400BC there were engravings of these dogs. Michelangelo painted the breed as he lived with one. In 1888, the Queen of England – Victoria – brought 6 back to England from Florence.

The Italians have loved the Volpino for centuries. These little dogs that resemble the Pomeranian so much but existed much before them. It was very early in the history of the domesticated dog that the Volpino moved from north to south. The Italians called them Volpino because it means foxy dog. They also called them Lupino which means wolfy dog.

The breed was never seen outside of its home range in Italy until the 1880’s and it is still a rare breed. However since the 1980’s the breeders of the American Eskimo brought some from Italy to the US and claimed they were American Ekimo runts. They interbred the Volpino with the American Eskimo creating the toy and mini Eskimo.

The Volpino was a guard dog alerting the Mastiffs to the presence of intruders. The Mastiff would then respond to the intruder. The Volpino was also a popular companion animal due to their easy temperament and their high intelligence level. However they grew less popular and by 1965 there were only a few registered dogs left. There was an attempt to revive the breed in 1984 when dogs that still lived on farms were used as new stock. Even with this, they remain a rare breed and only about 4000 are alive throughout the world.

The Volpino have been denied AKC registration or stock registration as they are considered to be too much like the American Eskimo Dog. However they are recognized by the FCI, the UKC, the ENCI (Italian National Kennel Club), the North American Volpino Club, the Volpino Italiano Health and Genealogy Club and the Volpino Club of America.

Description

harlequin pinscher puppy - descriptionThis is a small compact dog standing at 25 – 33cm in height and weighing about 3kg to 4 or 5kg. He has dark eyes and ears which are set high and which are erect with just the top of them folding forwards.

The legs are straight and thin with small cat-like shaped paws. The tail is traditionally cropped, but these days the tail is left longer. He has a short coat which is available in a range of colors – black, brown, red, fawn patterns of merle, brindle or piebald. The Harlequin Pinscher is like a Bambi or a small deer, especially when they're a bit long in the leg.

Temperament:

Alert and inquisitive, the Harlequin Pinscher is a feisty, devoted little dog, brave and loyal and he has a lot of energy. He is intelligent too and with training and socialization, he becomes such a pleasure to have around, obedient and responding well to instructions.

He is known to be good with other pets as well as with children, so long as the children have been taught to respect animals. As always, a dog pretty much turns out the way the owners are, and with training and firmness while being patient and fair, you don’t have to worry about your Harlequin turning into a ‘small dog syndrome’ animal – whining, snappy and disagreeable. He is actually described as a big dog in a tiny dog's body.

The Harlequin Pinscher is a social dog and wants to be with you wherever you go.

volpino italiano puppy - descriptionThe Volpino is about the same size as the Pomeranian and smaller than the American Eskimo Dog. They are a rare breed and they have a soft, thick coat and they can be red, white or champagne. With the pointed ears and muzzles, they do look like a fox. They have large thick tails curling over their back and they have double coats.

Characteristics

harlequin pinscher dog - characteristicsThe Harlequin Pinscher may have once been good at catching rats but these days they are much more sought after for their ability to be a splendid companion and pet.

He is such an entertaining, social little dog, wanting to spend as much time with you as possible. He is fearless, energetic, playful, confident, loving and intelligent and those who have owned them say they are courageous way beyond their size.

He is strong willed, stubborn and confident and this larger-than-life dog is just waiting to show you what a wonderful friend he can be to you too.

Characteristics

1Children friendliness yes but better with older children than young ones

2.Special talents – loyalty and playfulness – people are his specialty

3.Adaptability very could live anywhere

4.Learning ability high loves to learn, very intelligent

Health Problems

harlequin pinscher puppies - health problemsHarlequin Pinschers, just like other dog breeds, have health issues that they are prone to such as epilepsy, dental issues, obesity and Patellar Luxation.

Epilepsy or Seizures:

Some seizures in dogs are genetic or related to illness. A dog could have ingested something poisonous while a head injury can also cause seizures in dogs. If your pet has a seizure you may notice foaming at the mouth, drooling or twitching of the legs.

After a seizure you could see your dog walking in circles and bumping into things. It is important to get your pet to the vet as soon as possible.

Health Problems

volpino italiano puppies - health problemsThe Italian Volpino has better health than most dogs due to so much isolation for so many years. However they are susceptible to some diseases and genetic issues.

• PLL Primary Lens Luxation – Genetic mutation of the eye. Very painful and usually occurs between 4 and 8 years of age. Usually results in euthanasia.

• Patellar Luxation – moving knee cap – can result in lameness and/or arthritis.

  • Cardiac Issues

Caring The Pet

Grooming:

harlequin pinscher dogs - caringThe short, smooth coat of the Harlequin Pinscher is easy to maintain, shedding little. With such a small, nimble dog, you can even take a damp cloth and wipe him down. You can brush him down once or twice a week to keep his coat healthy and shiny.

Dogs can develop dental problems such as tartar and plaque build-up. and this can lead to canine dental problems which can turn life-threatening as bad teeth affect the heart, kidneys and the liver.

You need to brush your pet's teeth 2 or 3 times a week making use of canine toothbrush and toothpaste. Never use regular human toothpaste for your dog as it can be poison to him. It is why dry kibble is better than soft food as the soft food sticks to the dogs teeth.

Diet:

Your Harlequin Pinscher is also a member of the toy breed group and he has high energy levels. Always choose a high quality kibble for a small dog breed and also which is in keeping with his age and activity levels. He will do well on a high quality dry commercial food, some raw meat or home-cooked food such as chicken, brown rice, pasta and vegetables. If your dog is an energetic dog, he will benefit from a diet rich in protein.

It will be tempting to feed your little pet tasty treats such as chocolate, nuts, coffee and milk but be careful as these can cause severe digestive problems with your dog.

Caring for Pet

volpino italiano dogs - caring1Feeding the puppy small meals 3-4 times day don’t overfeed feed small breed food

2.Feeding the adult small meals 2x day don’t overfeed small breed food

3.Points for Good Health general excellent health

4. Games and Exercises

don’t require much Agility, nose work, and rally

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Volpino Italiano vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  2. Volpino Italiano vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  3. Volpino Italiano vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  4. Volpino Italiano vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  5. Volpino Italiano vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  6. Volpino Italiano vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  7. Volpino Italiano vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  8. Volpino Italiano vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  9. Volpino Italiano vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  10. Volpino Italiano vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  11. Volpino Italiano vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  12. Volpino Italiano vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  13. Volpino Italiano vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  14. Volpino Italiano vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  15. Volpino Italiano vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  16. Volpino Italiano vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  17. Volpino Italiano vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  18. Volpino Italiano vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  19. Volpino Italiano vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  20. Volpino Italiano vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  21. Volpino Italiano vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  22. Volpino Italiano vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  23. Volpino Italiano vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  24. Volpino Italiano vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  25. Volpino Italiano vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  26. Harlequin Pinscher vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  27. Harlequin Pinscher vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  28. Harlequin Pinscher vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  29. Harlequin Pinscher vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  30. Harlequin Pinscher vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. Harlequin Pinscher vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  32. Harlequin Pinscher vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  33. Harlequin Pinscher vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. Harlequin Pinscher vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. Harlequin Pinscher vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. Harlequin Pinscher vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. Harlequin Pinscher vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. Harlequin Pinscher vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. Harlequin Pinscher vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. Harlequin Pinscher vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. Harlequin Pinscher vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. Harlequin Pinscher vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. Harlequin Pinscher vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. Harlequin Pinscher vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. Harlequin Pinscher vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Harlequin Pinscher vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. Harlequin Pinscher vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  48. Harlequin Pinscher vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  49. Harlequin Pinscher vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  50. Harlequin Pinscher vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison