Bolognese

No, it’s not a pasta dish—the Bolognese is a tiny dog full of charm, featuring a fluffy, white coat that feels like cotton. Belonging to the Bichon group, this little dog is both small and strong, known for its affectionate nature. While they are smart and curious, they don’t need a lot of exercise. They enjoy playing and are very social, but they may not like being away from their owners or families.

Quick Info

Size
Small
Colours
White
Lifespan
12 to 14 years
Height
10 to 12 inches
Type
Companion
Hypoallergenic
yes
Weight
6 to 10 pounds
Family

Personality

Bichon Bolognese dogs form strong connections with their humans and enjoy being busy with them rather than staying home alone. They are smart, fast learners, and sometimes even funny, but they aren’t very active and don’t need a lot of exercise. However, they can be quite watchful and may bark frequently. These dogs often experience separation anxiety and shouldn’t be left alone for extended times.

History

A Bolognese dog is considered a noble breed, even if they don’t realize it. This breed belongs to the Bichon family and has roots in Bologna, Italy, dating back to the 11th and 12th centuries. They were favored by royal families and the elite, having been owned by figures like Madame Pompadour, Louis XIV of France, Philip II of Spain, and Catherine the Great of Russia. While you don’t need to treat your Italian snowball like a king or queen, they were once pampered like royalty, possibly sipping from gold-plated bowls.

Ideal Owner

These small, fluffy clouds are great companions for single people, families, other pets, and even new faces when their humans are present. They enjoy joining in on adventures, which is simple due to their small size and light weight. However, they can experience strong feelings of anxiety when left alone and struggle without company. Their gentle nature and desire to stay close to their owners make them perfect pets for older adults or retirees.

Exercise Needs

Limited room? Bolognese are perfectly fine with that. They thrive in apartments as long as they get some exercise, just like they would in a bigger home with a yard. You can keep their lively minds engaged with simple activities like solving puzzles, playing fetch, or teaching them new tricks.

Space Requirements

Bolos don’t need much room as long as they can get some exercise and their owners are nearby, ready for a cuddle.

Training

When training these smart dogs, using positive reinforcement is key. Some may show signs of “small dog syndrome” or act like they need to be the leader of the pack, which can cause issues like separation anxiety, but training can help with this. It’s a good idea to socialize Bolognese puppies early on to help them feel secure around other people and pets. They may take their time learning to potty train, so it’s important to be patient. These dogs thrive when they get both mental challenges and physical activity.

Grooming

It’s clear why the European nobility adored the Bolognese breed. Their fluffy, white coats resemble cotton and are quite eye-catching, though they need consistent grooming. Typically, their fur is kept long, which can lead to tangles, so it’s essential to brush them, especially around the belly, ears, and legs to avoid knots. Their cute, curious faces also need regular trimming around the eyes. Additionally, their nails should be clipped often, ears should be cleaned, and teeth should be brushed regularly. These dogs are known for not shedding much, making them suitable for people with mild to moderate allergies.

Suitability for Family Life

Bolognese dogs thrive in calm environments, such as homes with older kids, retired couples, or individuals living alone. However, they can also adapt well to families with young children, other relatives, and even other dogs if the circumstances are suitable.

Did You know?

Though they are now seen as uncommon, Bolognese dogs once thrived as beloved pets of nobles such as Catherine the Great, Madame De Pompadour, and Empress Maria Theresa of Austria. You can spot them with their owners in various pieces of art.

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Need to Know

Good for experienced and non-experienced owners
Generally healthy breed
Enjoys gentle walks and can get by with less than an hour of walking a day
Minimal drool
High-maintenance grooming needs, including daily brushing
Chatty and vocal dog
Is on high alert and barks
Might not like other dogs