Bolognese

Toy

Size:

Grooming:

Exercise Level:

Trainability:

Barking Level:

Height: 22 - 30cm M | 22 - 30cm F

Weight: 3 - 6kg M | 3 - 6kg F

Life Expectancy: 12 - 14 Years

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Introduction

The charming looks of the Bolognese, also known as the Bichon Bolognese, earned its place as a favourite companion dog. The Bolognese is a toy dog that stands at 25 to–30 centimetres at the withers and weighs 6–9 pounds. This dog breed only comes in white colour. It has a compact body and sports a single coat that does not shed. The head is ovoid and medium in length. It is loyal, intelligent, and extremely adaptable to all types of homes. It loves being with the family. The Bolognese has a life expectancy of twelve to fifteen years.

Are you interested in getting a Bolognese? Here is a brief background of this small, charming, white dog.

History

The Bolognese is believed to have descended from the bichon breed (includes bichon frise, Maltese, Havanese, löwchen, and Coton de Tulear), which its genetics is believed to be traced back to ancient ancestors of the poodle and barbet. Although there are apparent similarities, the exact ancestry of the Bolognese is unknown.

The name Bolognese came from a city in northern Italy called Bologna. It is thought to be where the breed was established. The breed has been recorded since the early 1200s. One of the oldest companion dogs in Europe, the Bolognese dog can be seen in artworks such as tapestries and paintings in the seventeenth century.

It was not until Liz Stannard brought the breed in England in the 1990s that it was officially shown in a class for breeds that were not yet recognised by the Kennel Club. In January 1995, the Bolognese was accepted by the United Kennel Club.

Appearance and Grooming

The Bolognese is a small dog under the toy dog breed. It weighs 6–9 pounds and stands 25–30 centimetres at the withers. Bolognese dog boasts of a square muscular build. Its head is of medium length and it sports strong jaws, a large black nose, and big round eyes. The ears are set high, long, and hanging at the base in pendulum shape. Its tail is also curved and rests on its back.

The Bolognese dog has a thick, curly, white coat that needs daily brushing and occasional professional grooming, which includes bathing. The Bolognese dog has a unique coat that does not shed. Instead, it loses and replaces hair same as humans do through growth cycles. Grooming must also include regular cleaning of eyes and ears as well as oral hygiene.

Temperament and Intelligence

The Bolognese dog is a happy and playful dog. This dog enjoys the company of its owners. It enjoys walks but is not overly energetic, so short walks are fine. The Bolognese dog is a great family companion especially for households with an elderly family member. This dog breed also loves children. However, playtime must be supervised, so the Bolognese doesn't get injured during rough play with the kids.

Unlike other small dogs, the Bolognese does not have a ‘yapping’ nature. The breed has deeper vocals, but is not a big barker. It adapts to any household and type of homes, whether it's a big house or a small city apartment. The Bolognese is highly trainable, so obedience training will be a breeze.

Nutrition and Feeding

A typical serving for an adult Bolognese dog is one cup daily of high-quality kibble or any grain-free food. Since it's a small dog, calorie need is lower, but again, the amount and frequency will depend on the dog's age, size, and activity level.

Typical calorie needs of an adult Bolognese dog per day:

Senior and less active: up to 320 calories daily
Typical adult: up to 360 calories daily
Physically active: up to 403 calories daily

An ideal diet for a Bolognese dog is raw meat or fish with green tripe, cartilage, heart, and liver. Add some vegetable corn oil or salmon oil, which is well-known to have high levels of omega-3. Other than that, it is also important that you stick to a feeding schedule. Feed the Bolognese dog twice a day, in the morning and in the evening.

Health and Exercise

The average lifespan of a Bolognese dog is twelve to fifteen years. However, since the Bolognese dog is a rare breed, health records on its common ailments is limited. Like other dog breeds, the Bolognese can suffer from hip dysplasia, luxating patellae, and Legg-Calve-Perthes disease. Other than the mentioned disorders and some known allergies that cause itchy skin, the Bolognese dog is generally a healthy dog breed.

Cost of Ownership

A well-bred pedigree Bolognese puppy from a KC-registered breeder costs anywhere from £600 to £800. On top of this, you’ll have to pay about £200 for essential dog supplies and equipment including leashes, collars, dog bowls, and toys.

Food will cost around £30-£40 a month, which is cheaper than most breeds since this dog breed is small. Regular health checks, vaccinations, and boosters cost £800 per year.

To ensure that you are prepared for unforeseen expenses from health emergencies, it is advisable to get pet insurance. The monthly insurance premium is £20 for basic coverage and £40 for a lifetime policy.