All about Bolognese: Character, Care & History

The Bolognese, a charming little dog with a rich history and a royal heritage, is a beloved companion breed known for its soft, white coat, lively personality and affectionate nature. With its expressive dark eyes and cheerful disposition, this breed makes a loyal companion for both families and single people. This article covers the breed's history, character, care needs and what makes it such an endearing companion.

History of the breed

The Bolognese takes its name from the Italian city of Bologna, where it has been prized as a companion dog for centuries. The breed is closely related to the Bichon Frisé and the Maltese, and is believed to have originated from crossbreeding between these breeds. The Bolognese was a popular gift among the European nobility and was often depicted in paintings by famous artists such as Titian and Goya. The breed survived near extinction in the 20th century and was eventually recognised by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) in 1989.

Bolognese character and temperament

The Bolognese is a cheerful, affectionate and intelligent dog that loves to be the centre of attention. It is a sociable dog that enjoys human company and loves to be part of family life. The breed is generally friendly towards strangers and other pets, making it an ideal companion for families with children. The Bolognese is intelligent and eager to learn, but can sometimes be a bit stubborn. Positive reinforcement and patience are the keys to successful training.

Bolognese physical characteristics

• Height and weight: The Bolognese’s height at the withers varies between 25 and 30 centimetres. Its weight is usually between 2.5 and 4 kilograms.
• Head and body: The head is round with a short muzzle and large, dark eyes. The body is compact and sturdy with a straight back and a high-carried tail that curls over the back.
• Coat and colour: The coat is long, soft and woolly. The colour is pure white, though light shades of ivory may sometimes occur.

Coat care and hygiene

The Bolognese’s coat requires regular care to prevent tangles and matting. Daily brushing and combing are recommended. Regular washing and trimming are also important to keep the coat in optimal condition.

Socialisation: Behaviour with other dogs

Early socialisation is important for the Bolognese to learn how to interact well with other dogs and people. The breed is generally sociable and friendly, but can sometimes be a little reserved towards strangers or other dogs. Good socialisation and training are essential to ensure the dog develops into a well-balanced and confident companion.

Training

The Bolognese is intelligent and eager to learn, but can sometimes be a bit stubborn. Positive reinforcement, patience and consistency are the keys to successful training. The use of rewards, such as treats and praise, works best with this breed. Reward-based training is also the better-supported choice on welfare grounds: dogs trained mainly with aversive methods show more stress signals and a more pessimistic mood than dogs trained with rewards alone [2]. It is important to start training at a young age to lay the foundations for an obedient and well-behaved dog.

Living conditions

The Bolognese is an adaptable breed that can adjust well to different living conditions. The breed can live in a house with a garden or in a flat, provided there are sufficient opportunities for daily exercise and mental stimulation.

Health: Common ailments and diseases

The Bolognese is generally a healthy breed, but as with any breed, certain health issues can arise. Some common conditions in the Bolognese include patellar luxation, eye problems and allergies. Small breeds carry a far higher patellar luxation risk than large dogs: UK primary-care data puts small breeds at roughly twelve times the odds of large breeds, with individual small breeds such as the Pomeranian and Chihuahua running five to six times the odds of crossbred dogs [1]. Regular check-ups at the veterinarian are important to detect and treat any health issues at an early stage.

Life expectancy

The average life expectancy of the Bolognese is 12 to 14 years.

Price and budget

The price of a Bolognese puppy varies depending on the breeder and the pedigree. On average, the price ranges from €1,500 to €2,500. In addition to the purchase price, there are also costs associated with nutrition, vet visits, vaccinations, worming, flea and tick prevention, and any training.

Diet and nutritional requirements

A balanced diet is essential for the health and well-being of the Bolognese. It is important to choose high-quality dog nutrition that is tailored to the dog’s age, activity level and specific needs. Consult your veterinarian for advice on the right nutrition and portion sizes.

Physical activity and exercise

The Bolognese needs daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. Walks, playing in the garden and other activities are important to stimulate the dog both physically and mentally. The breed is also suited to various dog sports, such as agility and obedience.

Bolognese name ideas

• Males: Alfredo, Enzo, Gino, Leonardo, Marco, Paolo
• Females: Bianca, Fiorella, Isabella, Giulia, Lucia, Sofia

FCI information

• FCI group: 9 (Companion Dogs)
• FCI section: 1.1 (Bichons and related breeds)
• FCI number: 196

FAQ

How big does a Bolognese get?

The height at the withers varies between 25 and 30 cm and the weight between 2.5 and 4 kg.

What is the temperament of a Bolognese?

The Bolognese is cheerful, affectionate, intelligent and enjoys human company.

How do I care for a Bolognese’s coat?

Daily brushing and regular washing and grooming are necessary to keep the coat tangle-free and healthy.

How much exercise does a Bolognese need?

Daily walks and playtime are important for both physical and mental stimulation.

What health problems are common in the Bolognese?

Common problems include patellar luxation, eye problems and allergies. Small breeds face a much higher patellar luxation risk than large dogs [1]. Regular check-ups at the vet are essential.