Bugg is originated from United States but Volpino Italiano is originated from Italy. Bugg may grow 8 cm / 4 inches higher than Volpino Italiano. Both Bugg and Volpino Italiano are having almost same weight. Bugg may live 3 years less than Volpino Italiano. Both Bugg and Volpino Italiano has almost same litter size. Bugg requires Moderate Maintenance. But Volpino Italiano requires High Maintenance
The Bugg is generally a cross between a Boston Terrier and a Pug. There is no clear history in terms of who started this hybrid dog that was recognized initially be the IDCR or International Designer Canine Registry in 2009. This very cute little dog has become increasingly popular in a very short period of time. Crossing these two breeds created a small dog that loves to sit in your lap as well a romp and play.
At this time the Bugg is recognized by several of the hybrid and designer registries and clubs. This would include in addition to the IDCR:
This 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.
This cross between the Boston Terrier and Pug can have several different looks depending upon whether the individual dog resembles the Pug or the Boston more. Some usual but not always physical characteristics include curly tails, droopy ears and a stocky body in a small dog. They usually have soft, straight coats. Most Buggs look more like the Boston than the Pug although they have the more smashed muzzles and shorter legs of the Pug. The heads are round with almond shaped eyes.
The 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.
This crossbreed is easily trainable and highly intelligent. They might be stubborn like the Boston or devoted like the Pug. They can have characteristics of both parents and be loving, playful lapdogs. They love to play with children, but they can be territorial like the Boston. The Bugg is a small dog with a big attitude. They are affectionate and sweet, friendly towards people and other animals. Since the Boston and the Pug have very similar characteristics and temperament, you can have a pretty good idea what your Bugg will be like.
The 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.
Buggs love to eat and will anything you give them and some things that you don’t. They can become obese very easily so watch their food intake. These small dogs should be eating food made for small dogs. Feed them only ¾ to 1 and ½ cups of dry food per day split into two meals.
The Bugg can inherit health problems from either the Boston or the Pug, or they may be healthier than either parent breed. Both of these parent breeds are given to Brachycephalic issues due to their mashed faces. They could face respiratory issues or eye issues because of this.
The Bugg is a very energetic and playful dog. They love to run, play and go on walks. Just one walk or play session per day is enough exercise for this little dog. You can easily have your play time inside if you don’t have a fenced yard. Because of their faces and breathing issues do not let them get overheated.