History of the Bolognese Breed
Believed to have originated from the Italian region of Bologna, the Bolognese is thought to be related to the Bichon Frise, the Havanese, and the Maltese. According to experts, this breed has been around since 1400s, and it is thought that the dog was used to catch mice. History suggests that this little dog was a popular gift among nobles during the Renaissance. Many people confuse the origin of the Bolognese with that of the Maltese, because they share some of the same distant ancestors. It is said that Cosimo de Medici brought approximately eight of these dogs to Brussels in the early 1400s to be presented as gifts to several Belgian noblemen. Philipe II, the king of Spain from 1556 to 1598, is quoted as saying, "These two little dogs are the most royal gifts one can make to an emperor," after he received them as a gift from the Duke d'Este. Today, the Bolognese still enjoys popularity as a wonderful little companion.
Size and Appearance of the Bolognese Breed
Small, stocky, and square-proportioned, the Bolognese is compact little dog covered in a long, white coat. The medium-length head features a square-like muzzle. The jaws feature white, even teeth that usually meet in a scissors bite. The dark ochre eyes are well opened and offer an expression of alertness. The ears are long and hanging, set quite high on the head. The curved tail is carried over the back, and the gait of this breed is best described as free and easy. The pure white coat consists of long hair found all over the body, but the hair is shorter on the muzzle. The coat does not lie flat, and it is quite fluffy in texture.
Bolognese Temperament
Friendly yet serious, the Bolognese is not an overly active dog. It is more reserved than its cousin, the Bichon Frise. The Bolognese bonds closely with its owner and needs to be involved in everything the family does. It has been said that this breed will howl in sadness if its owner does not pay enough attention to it. Some can be a bit timid with strangers, so it is important to socialize this dog from an early age so it can become accustomed to being around others. The Bolognese will normally enjoy being with children as well as other household pets, but it does do better with older children. This is a breed that loves to be the center of attention. It is also said that the Bolognese can be a good watchdog.
Bolognese Recommended Maintenance
The long, fluffy coat of the Bolognese needs to be brushed on a daily basis to avoid matting and frizzing. Monthly grooming is also highly recommended to keep the coat in top shape, including nail trimming, ear cleaning, and bathing. Good for those with allergies, the Bolognese is known to shed little or no hair. While this little dog can often find enough to do to meet its exercise requirement, it will truly enjoy a daily walk and playing fetch. This is a good breed for those living in an apartment, as a yard is not really necessary. The Bolognese may have difficulty in house training - some report that crate training will be necessary. Some can also have a tendency to bark a lot.
Bolognese Health
Life span: 14 years
Major concerns: none
Minor concerns: eyes
Occasionally seen: none
Suggested tests: luxating patella
