| Country of origin: | Italy |
| Registries: | AKC FSS, UKC, ARBA |
| Occupation: | Companion |
| Size: | 9 to 12.5 in tall; 8 to 15 lbs |
| Longevity: | 12 to 14 years |
| Exercise: | Moderate |
| Training: | Easy; hard to housetrain |
| Grooming: | Difficult |
Less extrovert and less well known than the Bichon Frise, the Bolognese, or Bichon Bolognese, is a loyal companion and is well-behaved in the company of other dogs and children. The tufted, cottony coat has no undercoat, making this a dog suited to warmer climates. Although its name is taken from the city of Bologna in northern Italy, it is possible that the breed originated from the Bichons of southern Italy. The Bolognese was described as long ago as the 13th century, and was popular in the courts of Renaissance nobility.
History
The Bolognese is not just a sauce; it is also the face of a small, white fluffball. These dogs are said to have originated in the Italian city of Bologna. The actual date that they became a breed is hard to say. The 11th century was the earliest they were recognized. Ever since the year 1200 all the way up until the 17th century, they have been noted in writings and displayed in artistic tapestries. They were also popular subjects for paintings many centuries ago.
In this era, they were treated as an utmost respectful offering. They ran with the royal crowd because they were one of the four Bichon dogs in the group. They were given to the noble and wealthy ones as gifts by kings and other members of royalty. They faced near extinction until an Italian stepped up and used his adoration for the breed to rebuild their breed.
Personality
Bolognese are very intelligent and loving canines. Their very existence runs on the foundation of attention and the bonds they form with their one and only. They can bond with many people but they typically bond with their main human. The same goes for other family pets. Although they will play with and get along with other dogs in the family, they aren’t opposed to being the center of attention. They often prefer it.
They are playful and loyal which makes for a great family dog. They enjoy being companions and are not aggressive dogs. This means they are fine with other dogs and children as long as they get the proper socialization.
Traits
As mentioned above, the Bolognese are small dogs as they are classified as toy dogs. They are 10 to 12 inches tall and they weigh 6 to 14 lbs. They only come in one color; That is white just like their Maltese counterpart that they greatly resemble. Their white coat is a curly single coat that shortens around their face. It is a soft, woolly texture.
Handling
Their single coat does not shed very much so grooming is fairly simple. They can be trimmed but it comes down to owner preference. If so, they can be groomed about once a month and they would be just fine. They should be brushed regularly to avoid mats from forming.
The Bolognese requires very little exercise but they enjoy walks with their owners. Training is a walk in the park because they are quick learners and appreciate the attention they get from their owners. They do prefer to mix things up with a little variety though.
Socialization from a young puppy age is recommended so they can be used to people as they grow up. They can be slightly hesitant with strangers but usually it doesn’t take much to warm up.
Health
The general consensus is that Bolognese are healthy. They do not have very many genetic issues that are caused from poor breeding. With proper care and maintenance, they can live to be 14 years old. Just give them plenty of love and they will be as happy as can be.