Lupo Italiano

Size	Large
Height	58 to 70 cm (23 to 28 in)males 60 to 70 cm, females 58 to 65 cm1
Coat	Wolf-like coat
Origin	Italy; developed from 1966 at Cumiana, near Turin.1

Rare breedShort profile

capable working dog

strong nose for detection work

athletic and fast

Coat and looks how to spot one

wolf-like coat

A large, wolf-like dog with a strong chest, powerful jaws, medium pointed ears and ideally slanted golden eyes. The long tail hangs low at rest and curves a little when raised.1

Coloursgrey with fawn or beige shadingsmall black or white chest patch allowed1

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Lupo Italiano. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

Brushingevery week
Bathevery 8 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
Ear checkFloppy ears trap moisture, so check and dry themevery week
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 7every year

Daily activity how busy a day looks

A large working dog used for search and rescue and detection, so it needs lots of exercise and purposeful work.1

The story where it all began

The line began in 1966 with a cross between a German Shepherd and a wolf from the province of Rieti, and was developed by Mario Messi. Private ownership was not allowed, and the dogs were trained for public roles such as police work, search and rescue and drug detection. Later genetic studies found the dogs to be closely related to German Shepherds.1

Fun facts for the dinner table

1
It was chosen as the official assistance dog for the 2006 Winter Olympics in Turin.1
2
The breed's founder claimed it could reach 70 km/h.1
3
The founding dog, born in 1966, was named Zorro.1

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed name 'Lupo Italiano' translates directly from Italian to 'Italian Wolf', reflecting its claimed origin as a wolf-dog hybrid created by crossing a German Shepherd with an Italian wolf.1

Name ideas for your new friend

LupoToroAlbaRoccoNeroFiammaPietroLunaOrsoStellaBellaGino

A day in the life told by a Lupo Italiano

I wake up with the sun, my favorite time. I stretch and walk the fields with my human, sniffing every track. Then we practice searching, I find a hidden toy in the tall grass. My tail wags hard. After lunch, I guard the yard, watching for anything unusual. In the evening, we run together along the path, wind in my fur. I sleep soundly, knowing I helped today.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

ENCI: Not recognised by the Italian kennel club (ENCI) or any major kennel club.1
Italian state (presidential decree): A 1987 presidential decree recognised the breed's founding association (ASOLI). The breed is now managed by AAALI.1

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Lupo Italiano tip

The Lupo Italiano is a large, very active breed that needs a high-quality, large-breed diet to support its energy levels and joint health. Keep treats to 10% of daily calories to avoid weight gain, and ask your vet about the best diet for your dog's specific needs.

Source: vcahospitals.com petmd.com

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

1 cooking pumpkin
½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

1 egg
170g boiled chicken breast
100g cooked plain rice
60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Lupo Italiano, and at what times?

Feed your Lupo Italiano at least two meals a day, as adult dogs do best with a consistent schedule. Puppies need three to four smaller meals. Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests daily feeding, and you can ask your vet for exact times and portions.1 2 Pet Wiki plan

What should a Lupo Italiano eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for a large, active breed. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and xylitol, which are especially harmful to dogs. Always check with your vet for a balanced diet.1 3

How often should I bathe a Lupo Italiano?

Bathe your Lupo Italiano at least once every three months, or more often if they get very dirty. Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every 56 days. Use a dog-safe shampoo and avoid over-bathing to protect their coat.4 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Lupo Italiano need brushing?

Brush your Lupo Italiano weekly to keep their wolf-like coat healthy and remove loose hair. Pet Wiki's starting plan recommends brushing every 7 days. This also helps bond with your dog and check for any skin issues.4 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Lupo Italiano's nails, and how often?

Trim nails when you hear them clicking on the floor, about every 28 days as a starting guide. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick to avoid pain. If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for a demonstration.4 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Lupo Italiano need?

This large working dog needs lots of exercise and purposeful work daily, such as long walks, runs, or search and rescue training. Pet Wiki's starting plan includes daily walks and play. Without enough activity, they may become restless.1 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Lupo Italiano's teeth and ears?

Brush their teeth two to three times a week with dog toothpaste, never human toothpaste. Check ears weekly and dry them gently, especially since floppy ears can trap moisture. Never push anything into the ear canal.4 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Lupo Italiano live?

The lifespan of a Lupo Italiano varies and depends on genetics and care. For specific information, ask your vet or a good breeder. Regular vet check-ups help ensure a long, healthy life.

Is a Lupo Italiano good with children and other pets?

This breed's temperament with children and other pets can vary based on training and socialization. It's best to ask a good breeder or an experienced vet for guidance. Early socialization is always recommended.

Can a Lupo Italiano be left alone?

Leaving a Lupo Italiano alone for long periods is not ideal, as they need lots of exercise and purpose. They may become anxious or destructive without enough activity. Consult a good breeder or trainer for advice on managing alone time.1

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.