What primary factors contributed to the steep decline of the Volpino Italiano in the 19th and early 20th centuries?
Answer
Changing societal tastes and blending with Pomeranian lines
The near-extinction of the breed resulted from a combination of changing lifestyle needs due to industrialization and a lack of distinction between similar breeds. As societal preferences evolved, the specific demand for the Volpino diminished. Crucially, the international rise in popularity of the Pomeranian created an environment where the two similar-looking, white, small Spitz breeds were often interbred. Because breeders frequently did not maintain separate records or distinctions for the Volpino, its unique genetic pool was diluted into Pomeranian lines, nearly causing the breed to vanish as a distinct entity.
Related Questions
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