The Bolognese is an ancient toy breed from Bologna, Italy, and belongs to the Bichon family. Cherished for centuries, this breed was a favorite among Italian royalty and European nobility, including Catherine the Great of Russia and Empress Maria Theresa of Austria. Often given as gifts, these dogs symbolized status and affection.
Unlike working breeds, the Bolognese was bred solely for companionship. Its calm, loving nature made it a sought-after lap dog in European courts. Though its popularity declined in the 20th century, dedicated breeders preserved it. Today, the breed is gaining recognition as an ideal companion dog. The Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) recognizes the breed, and its popularity is growing in the United States and beyond.
Though not as famous as the Bichon Frise, the Bolognese has a loyal following. Its hypoallergenic, fluffy white coat and affectionate personality make it appealing to families, singles, and older adults. As more people discover its charm, the breed continues to grow in popularity among lap dogs and companion dogs worldwide.
This small breed has a distinctive fluffy coat and an expressive, gentle face.
• Coat: The long, soft coat falls in cotton-like waves and is always pure white. Unlike other toy breeds, its coat is more flocked than curly.
• Size: Bolognese dogs stand 10 to 12 inches tall and weigh 5.5 to 9 pounds.
• Head & Expression: A slightly rounded skull, short square muzzle, and dark round eyes give the breed a warm, intelligent look.
• Ears: Medium-sized ears set high and hanging close to the head blend with its fluffy coat.
• Body: Compact and square-shaped with a straight back, well-developed muscles, and a plumed tail curling over the back.
This breed is affectionate, calm, and devoted, making it a wonderful companion.
• Loving and Loyal: Forms deep bonds with its family and thrives on companionship.
• Calm and Gentle: Unlike many toy breeds, it is relaxed and easygoing.
• Intelligent and Trainable: Eager to please and easy to train with positive reinforcement.
• Alert but Not Yappy: Will bark to alert owners but is not an excessive barker.
• Good with Children and Pets: Gentle nature makes it great for families, though supervision is needed with very young kids due to its small size.
If you want a charming, affectionate, and low-energy dog, this breed is a great choice.
• Loving and Devoted: Ideal for those wanting a close canine companion.
• Hypoallergenic Coat: Great for allergy sufferers due to its low-shedding coat.
• Relaxed and Gentle: A perfect choice for quieter households and older adults.
• Adaptable and Portable: Small size makes it great for apartments and travel.
• Easy to Train: Smart, eager to please, and great for first-time owners.
This breed requires regular grooming and care to stay healthy and happy.
• Grooming: Brush at least three times a week to prevent matting. Professional grooming every 4-6 weeks helps maintain its fluffy coat.
• Exercise: Moderate exercise, including daily walks and playtime, keeps the breed healthy.
• Mental Stimulation: Puzzle toys, training, and interactive games keep it engaged.
• Nutrition: High-quality dog food suited for small breeds is essential. Monitor portions to prevent obesity.
• Health Monitoring: Regular vet checkups, dental care, and grooming ensure overall well-being.
While generally healthy, the breed is prone to some conditions.
• Patellar Luxation: A common small breed issue where the kneecap dislocates.
• Dental Problems: Regular brushing and dental checkups prevent periodontal disease.
• Eye Conditions: Tear staining and cataracts can occur, so regular eye cleaning and vet visits are needed.
• Hip Dysplasia: Rare but possible, so keeping a healthy weight is important.
• Obesity: Due to its low activity levels, maintaining proper diet and exercise is key.
Compared to the Bichon Frise, the Bolognese is calmer and less energetic, making it a better fit for relaxed households. It has a more textured, cotton-like coat and a slightly sturdier build than the Maltese. Unlike the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, which craves more activity, the Bolognese enjoys a quieter lifestyle. Toy breeds like the Toy Poodle and Shih Tzu share similar affectionate qualities but require different grooming and exercise needs.
This breed is perfect for individuals or families looking for a small, affectionate, and calm companion. If you seek a loving pet that enjoys human interaction, adapts to various lifestyles, and is easy to train, the Bolognese will be a delightful addition to your home.
However, if you prefer an independent or highly active dog, a different breed may suit you better. This dog thrives on companionship and can develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods.
United Pet Club is here to help you find the perfect canine companion. Whether adopting or connecting with trusted breeders, we provide valuable resources to guide you every step of the way.
Explore our platform to learn more about Bolognese dogs, their history, and their care. Contact United Pet Club today to start your journey with this charming and affectionate Italian lap dog!