Bolognese

The Bolognese originated in Bologna, where it developed as a companion dog for the Italian nobility and aristocracy. The dogs are characterized by their small stature and white, fluffy coat. In addition to its appearance, the Bolognese is known for its affectionate personality and low energy temperament.

General details

The dog breed is small but robust in size. Males range in height from 27 to 30 centimeters, while females measure between 25 and 28 centimeters. The average weight of these dogs ranges between 2.5 and 4 kilograms. It is also a relatively long-lived breed, with a life expectancy of 12 to 14 years. The breed is classified in Group 9 of the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), which groups companion dogs.

Breed history in brief

The Bolognese is a breed of dog of Italian origin dating back to the 11th and 12th centuries. Originally bred as a companion dog for the nobility and aristocracy in Bologna, it was noted for its charming personality and affectionate nature. During the Renaissance, the Bolognese even became a highly prized artistic figure, appearing in various works of art by renowned artists such as Goya and Titian. Despite its prestigious history, in the 19th century, the Bolognese lost its popularity to larger dog breeds. However, some breeders worked to revive the breed in the following century. Today, the Bolognese is a popular companion animal throughout the world and is recognized by most kennel clubs, thanks to its affectionate and docile nature.

Breed characteristics

Bolognese is a robust and compact dog breed, with a square structure. The head is short and broad, and the skull is rounded. The eyes are slightly larger than normal, round and dark ochre in color, while the ears are long and hang close to the head. The expression on its face is friendly and may even appear to be smiling. The tail is carried curved over the back. The coat is soft, cottony in texture and pure white. In addition, it is long in length, except for the muzzle which is shorter. Regular brushing is recommended to prevent the coat from matting and/or tangling. One of the main qualities of the Bolognese breed is its affectionate and friendly nature. They enjoy human companionship, in fact, they can suffer from anxiety if left alone for long periods of time. They are intelligent and easy to train, making them an excellent choice for first-time owners. Although they are playful and enjoy walks in the park, the breed is relatively low-energy and are content to spend most of their time resting at home.

Common health problems

Information on the most common diseases in the Bolognese breed is very limited. Even so, it is likely to be predisposed to some of the most common disorders in dogs such as patellar luxation, progressive retinal atrophy, hip dysplasia and allergies.