Quick Facts

• Weight: 9 – 11 pounds
• Height: 10 – 12 inches

The Look of a Bolognese

The Bolognese is a compact, toy-sized dog covered in a long, fluffy white coat. It has a medium-sized head with a rounded skull, hanging ears, square muzzle, and dark nose and eyes. The Bolognese has a medium-long neck, and its plumed tail is carried over its back. Overall, the Bolognese looks distinguished but friendly.

Traits

• Playful
• Easygoing
• Earnest
• Willing
• Intelligent
• Loyal

Ideal Human Companion

• Retirees
• City dwellers
• Families

What They Are Like to Live With

The Bolognese may look like the Bichon Frise, but its personality is rather different. Less boisterous and outgoing than its fluffy white cousin, the Bolognese is slightly more reserved around the house. However, it forms very strong bonds with family members and welcomes strangers with a calm dignity.

Outdoors, the Bolognese perks up a little. It loves afternoon walks, hikes through fields and parks, and games of fetch in the back yard. Make sure the Bolognese gets lots of attention and affection: It can get ornery and bored without it.

Things You Should Know

The Bolognese can live as long as 15 years with relatively few genetic health issues. Grooming the Bolognese is fairly simple: Its long, white coat should be brushed every day, and it should see a professional groomer every few months.

While the Bolognese is perfectly happy to lounge around the house, it should have a daily walk to stay healthy and happy. Also, if you can manage to allow the Bolognese some time to romp in a protected field or park, that will work just as well.

Bolognese History

Originating in Bologna, Italy during the Renaissance, the Bolognese was a beloved pet among the wealthy. Both Cosimo de Medici and King Umberto gave these fluffy canines as gifts to family, friends and dignitaries. Over the centuries its numbers dwindled as the aristocracy’s power waned, but dedicated breeders eventually restored the Bolognese population.