Bichon Bolognes
Breed Description

The Bolognese is known by several names that reflect its rich Italian heritage and distinctive characteristics. The breed is most commonly called the Bolognese, named after the northern Italian city of Bologna where it originated. It is also referred to as Bichon Bolognese, acknowledging its membership in the Bichon family of breeds, which includes the Bichon Frise, Maltese, Havanese, Coton de Tulear, and Lowchen. In some circles, particularly in historical contexts, the breed has been called the Bolo or simply Bologna dog.

Historically, the Bolognese was sometimes known as the Havana Silk Dog due to the remarkable texture of its coat, which feels like fine silk despite being woolly rather than truly silky. This luxurious coat quality made the breed particularly desirable among European aristocracy during the Renaissance period. Italian nobility often referred to these dogs as "piccolo cane bianco di Bologna" which translates to "little white dog of Bologna."

The breed's ancestry traces back to small white dogs called Melitensis or Canes Melitenses, mentioned in Latin writings by Aristotle as far back as 384-322 BC. These ancient Mediterranean dogs are believed to be the common ancestors of all Bichon-type breeds. The Bolognese specifically developed in the Bologna region of Italy, where it became a distinct breed separate from its cousins, though it shares much of its history with the Maltese.

The American Kennel Club currently recognizes the Bolognese in its Foundation Stock Service program, which is the first step toward full AKC recognition. The breed has been part of the FSS since 2012. Internationally, the Federation Cynologique Internationale recognizes the Bolognese in Group 9, Section 1, alongside other Bichon breeds. The United Kennel Club also recognizes the breed in its Companion Dog Group.

In the United Kingdom, the breed was first introduced in 1990 by breeder Liz Stannard and gained the ability to be shown in all shows with their own classes in 2001. The Bolognese made its debut at the prestigious Crufts dog show in 2002. The breed's recognition has grown steadily across Europe and North America, though it remains relatively rare compared to its more popular Bichon cousins like the Bichon Frise and Maltese.

The Bolognese breed is supported by several dedicated organizations that work to preserve the breed's characteristics, health, and welfare. The American Bolognese Club serves as the primary breed club in the United States, providing resources for breeders, owners, and prospective adopters. The ABC works closely with the American Kennel Club to promote the breed and maintain breed standards. The club emphasizes the importance of health testing for breeding dogs and provides education about responsible ownership and the breed's unique needs.

The breed standard describes the Bolognese as a small, stocky dog with a square build, meaning the length from shoulder to tail base should equal the height at the withers. The ideal Bolognese stands between 10-12 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between 6-10 pounds, though slightly larger dogs are acceptable. The head should be of medium length with a well-defined stop, expressive dark round eyes with black eye rims, and a distinctive black nose. The ears are set high and hang pendulously, and the tail is carried in a graceful curve over the back.

The most distinctive feature of the Bolognese is its coat. The breed standard calls for a single coat of long, fluffy white hair that falls in loose open ringlets or flocks all over the body, with shorter hair on the face. The texture should be woolly rather than silky, and the coat is never trimmed or clipped in show dogs, though pet owners may choose to keep their dogs in a shorter "puppy cut" for easier maintenance. The color must be pure white, though very slight shades of ivory are acceptable in some standards.

Internationally, the Bolognese is recognized by the Federation Cynologique Internationale under Standard Number 196, Group 9 (Companion and Toy Dogs), Section 1 (Bichons and related breeds). The FCI standard emphasizes the breed's role as a companion dog and describes the ideal temperament as serious but not shy, very attached to its owner and to its close circle, docile and not very barking. The FCI standard also specifically notes that the breed should never be aggressive.

The United Kennel Club recognizes the Bolognese in its Companion Dog Group, describing the breed as intelligent, serious-minded, and devoted to its owner. The breed standard from various organizations all emphasize that while the Bolognese may be somewhat reserved with strangers initially, they should warm up quickly with proper socialization and should never show aggression or excessive shyness. The breed's primary function as a companion dog is paramount in all breed standards, with emphasis on their gentle, devoted nature and their strong bond with their families. Breeders and judges evaluate not just physical conformation but also temperament, ensuring that the breed maintains its characteristic serene yet playful personality.

• American Kennel Club (AKC): "Foundation Stock Service since 2012"
• United Kennel Club (UKC): "Recognized in Companion Dog Group"
• Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI): "Recognized - Group 9, Section 1, Standard #196"
• The Kennel Club (UK): "Recognized - First shown at Crufts in 2002"
• Canadian Kennel Club (CKC): "Not currently recognized"

The Bolognese is a small, compact dog with a distinctive square silhouette and an unmistakable pure white fluffy coat that gives them a cloud-like appearance. Standing just 10-12 inches at the shoulder and weighing between 6-10 pounds, these toy-sized companions possess a surprisingly sturdy and well-muscled build beneath their voluminous coat. The breed's body is slightly longer than tall, creating a rectangular rather than perfectly square profile, with well-developed chest and strong, straight legs that provide good movement despite their small size.

The head is of medium length and proportionate to the body, with a moderately rounded skull and a well-defined stop. One of the breed's most endearing features is their large, round, dark brown eyes that convey an expression of intelligence and devotion. The eyes are set well apart and are accentuated by black eye rims that stand out dramatically against the white facial hair. The nose is large, prominent, and must be black, as are the lips and paw pads. The muzzle is shorter than the skull but not extremely short, maintaining good proportion and allowing for healthy breathing.

The ears are set high on the head and hang down close to the skull in a pendulous fashion, covered with long, flowing hair that blends seamlessly with the coat on the head and neck. When alert, the ears may lift slightly at the base but still hang down. The tail is another distinctive feature, set high and carried in a graceful curve over the back, though it should not touch the back. The tail is well-feathered with long, flowing hair that adds to the breed's elegant appearance.

The Bolognese coat is perhaps its most defining physical characteristic. Unlike many breeds, the Bolognese has a single coat with no undercoat, which contributes to its minimal shedding. The hair is long, reaching six to eight inches in length on a fully coated adult, and grows in loose, open ringlets or flocks that cover the entire body. The texture is distinctly woolly rather than silky, though it should still be soft to the touch. The coat is shorter on the face, giving the head a more defined appearance while the body appears like a fluffy white cloud. The hair stands off from the body rather than lying flat, creating the breed's characteristic voluminous appearance. The color must be pure white, though very slight champagne or ivory shading is acceptable in some breed standards, particularly around the ears.

The Bolognese dog has a rich and fascinating history that spans more than two thousand years, making it one of Europe's oldest companion breeds. The breed's origins can be traced back to small white dogs mentioned in ancient texts, including writings by Aristotle who described "Canes Melitenses" around 384-322 BC. These ancient Mediterranean dogs are believed to be the common ancestors of all modern Bichon-type breeds, including the Bolognese, Maltese, Bichon Frise, Havanese, and others.

The specific development of the Bolognese as a distinct breed occurred in Bologna, Italy, likely during the 11th and 12th centuries. Bologna, a prosperous city in northern Italy, became the center of breeding for these small white companion dogs that captured the hearts of Italian nobility and wealthy merchants. The breed's elegant appearance and devoted temperament made them highly desirable among the aristocracy, and they quickly became status symbols representing wealth, refinement, and culture.

During the Italian Renaissance, from the 14th to 17th centuries, the Bolognese reached the height of its popularity among European nobility. These dogs were considered the most royal gifts that one aristocrat could bestow upon another, and they were frequently exchanged between noble families across Europe. Historical records document that Cosimo de Medici, the powerful ruler of Florence, brought eight Bolognese dogs to Brussels in the 15th century as gifts to Belgian noblemen. King Philip II of Spain received a pair of Bolognese dogs and was so delighted that he wrote a thank-you letter stating they were "the most royal gifts one can make to an emperor."

The breed was owned by numerous famous historical figures who appreciated their beauty and companionship. Catherine the Great of Russia, Madame de Pompadour of France, Empress Maria Theresa of Austria, and even Napoleon's wife Josephine all kept Bolognese dogs as beloved companions. The breed appears in numerous works of Renaissance art, depicted in paintings by masters such as Titian, who painted Duke Federico Gonzaga with his Bolognese, as well as Francisco Goya, Gosse, and Antoine Watteau. These artistic representations help document the breed's appearance and its importance in aristocratic society. Flemish tapestries from as far back as the 17th century also feature the Bolognese, demonstrating how widespread and valued the breed had become.

As the power and influence of European nobility declined in the 19th century, so too did the popularity of the Bolognese. The breed that had once been the exclusive province of kings and emperors became increasingly rare. The tumultuous period encompassing World War I and World War II proved particularly devastating for the breed, and by the mid-20th century, the Bolognese was on the brink of extinction. Fortunately, a small group of dedicated European breeders, recognizing the historical and genetic importance of the breed, worked tirelessly to rebuild the population and restore the breed to health.

The modern revival of the Bolognese began in earnest in the latter half of the 20th century. The breed was reintroduced to England in 1990 by Liz Stannard, who imported Bolognese from Italy to establish a breeding program. By 2001, the breed had gained enough recognition in the UK to be shown in its own classes at dog shows, and in 2002, the Bolognese made its debut at the prestigious Crufts dog show, one of the world's largest and most important dog shows.

In the United States, the Bolognese remains a relatively rare breed but has gained a devoted following among those who appreciate its gentle temperament and historic pedigree. The American Bolognese Club was established to support and promote the breed, and in 2012, the American Kennel Club accepted the Bolognese into its Foundation Stock Service program, the first step toward full AKC recognition. While still not as well-known as some of its Bichon cousins, the Bolognese continues to gain popularity among dog enthusiasts who are drawn to its combination of ancient heritage, elegant appearance, and devoted companion nature.

The Bolognese is renowned for its gentle, calm, and deeply devoted temperament, making it an ideal companion for those seeking a close bond with their canine friend. This breed forms exceptionally strong attachments to their family members and thrives on human companionship, often described as being happiest when in the constant presence of their owners. The Bolognese is not a dog that does well with independence; they genuinely need and desire to be with their people throughout the day, following them from room to room and participating in daily activities.

One of the most distinctive aspects of the Bolognese temperament is their calm and serene nature. Unlike many small breeds that can be hyperactive or yappy, the Bolognese tends to be quiet and composed. They are content to spend hours cuddling on the couch, sitting in a lap, or simply being near their family. This low-key demeanor makes them excellent companions for retirees, people who work from home, or anyone who can provide the constant companionship this breed requires. However, their need for human contact is so strong that they are prone to developing separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods. This breed is not suitable for families where everyone is away at work or school all day.

Despite their calm baseline, Bolognese dogs possess a playful and easygoing side that emerges during playtime with their families. They enjoy interactive games, learning tricks, and engaging in gentle play sessions. Their playfulness is balanced and appropriate, never overwhelming or demanding. The breed is intelligent and eager to please, which makes them responsive to training and capable of learning a variety of commands and behaviors. They particularly excel when training incorporates positive reinforcement methods and when they receive praise and affection as rewards.

The Bolognese is typically somewhat reserved or shy when first meeting strangers, a characteristic that is normal for the breed. However, with proper socialization from puppyhood, they learn to warm up relatively quickly to new people and become friendly once they feel comfortable. This initial reserve should not be confused with fearfulness or aggression; rather, it is a natural caution that reflects their strong bond with their primary family. Once a Bolognese accepts someone into their circle, they are affectionate and welcoming.

With children, the Bolognese generally does well, particularly with older, respectful children who understand how to interact gently with small dogs. They are patient and tolerant but are better suited to families with children who are past the toddler stage, as very young children may accidentally play too roughly for this delicate breed. The Bolognese forms loving bonds with family children and can be a devoted playmate and companion. With other pets, including dogs and cats, the Bolognese typically coexists peacefully. They have a low prey drive and are not aggressive toward other animals, though proper introductions and socialization remain important. Many Bolognese dogs enjoy having another canine companion in the home, particularly another small dog with a similar energy level.

The Bolognese adapts remarkably well to various living situations, making them suitable for apartment dwellers, suburban families, and even rural homes. Their small size and moderate exercise requirements mean they do not need a large yard or extensive space to be happy. However, what they absolutely require is the constant presence and attention of their family members. This breed is not suited for outdoor living or kennel situations; they are strictly indoor companions who need to be integrated fully into family life.

In an ideal Bolognese household, at least one family member is home most of the time, whether that's someone who works from home, a retiree, or a stay-at-home parent. These dogs thrive in homes where they can accompany their owners throughout the day, participating in household activities and routines. They are happiest when they can be wherever their people are, whether that's working in a home office, relaxing in the living room, or even joining family members in various rooms of the house. The Bolognese is often described as a "velcro dog" because of their tendency to stay close to their favorite people.

Daily routines for a Bolognese are relatively simple but must accommodate their grooming needs and moderate exercise requirements. These dogs need approximately 30 minutes of exercise daily, which can be satisfied with a couple of short walks around the neighborhood combined with indoor playtime. They enjoy exploring on walks but are not demanding of extensive physical activity. Indoor play sessions with toys, games of gentle fetch, or interactive puzzle toys provide mental stimulation that is equally important for this intelligent breed.

The Bolognese can do well in households with other pets, including other dogs and cats. Many owners find that having a second dog can help provide companionship for the Bolognese when the humans need to be away briefly. However, the second dog should not be seen as a replacement for human interaction, as the Bolognese will still require substantial time with their people. When introducing a Bolognese to other pets, gradual and supervised introductions are important, though the breed's gentle nature and low prey drive generally make these transitions smooth.

Family dynamics with a Bolognese tend to be affectionate and close-knit. These dogs develop strong bonds with all family members but often form an especially deep attachment to one person, typically the individual who spends the most time with them and handles their daily care. They are sensitive to the emotions and routines of their family, picking up on subtle changes in mood or schedule. This sensitivity makes them excellent emotional support animals and devoted companions for those dealing with stress, illness, or loneliness.

One important consideration for families with a Bolognese is their propensity for separation anxiety. This breed genuinely suffers when left alone for hours at a time, and extended isolation can lead to destructive behaviors, excessive barking, depression, or stress-related health issues. Families should be prepared to either take their Bolognese with them when possible, arrange for dog sitters or daycare, or have family members stagger schedules to ensure the dog is rarely alone. With proper management and gradual acclimation to short alone times, some Bolognese can tolerate brief periods of solitude, but this breed will never be truly happy without near-constant companionship.

Training a Bolognese is generally a pleasant and successful endeavor, as these dogs are intelligent, eager to please, and highly motivated by praise and affection from their owners. The breed responds best to positive reinforcement training methods that emphasize rewards for correct behavior rather than punishment for mistakes. Harsh corrections or raised voices are counterproductive with the sensitive Bolognese and can damage the trust and bond that is essential to the human-canine relationship with this breed.

Early socialization is crucial for Bolognese puppies to help them develop into well-adjusted, confident adults. Beginning in puppyhood, exposure to a variety of people, places, sounds, and experiences helps prevent the development of fearfulness or excessive shyness. Puppy socialization classes provide an excellent opportunity for young Bolognese to meet other puppies in a controlled environment while also beginning basic obedience training. These classes help teach important skills like proper greeting behaviors, bite inhibition, and basic commands while building the puppy's confidence.

Basic obedience training should start as soon as a Bolognese puppy comes home, typically around eight weeks of age. Simple commands like sit, stay, come, down, and leave it form the foundation of good manners and safety. The Bolognese typically learns these commands quickly due to their intelligence and desire to please. Short, frequent training sessions of five to ten minutes work best, as these small dogs can become mentally fatigued with lengthy sessions. Training should always end on a positive note with a command the dog knows well, ensuring success and maintaining motivation.

Housetraining a Bolognese requires patience and consistency but is generally achievable. Due to their small size, these dogs have small bladders and need frequent opportunities to eliminate, especially as puppies. Establishing a consistent schedule of taking the dog out first thing in the morning, after meals, after naps, and before bedtime helps establish good habits. Crate training can be a useful tool in housetraining, as dogs naturally avoid soiling their sleeping area. Some Bolognese owners successfully train their dogs to use indoor potty solutions like pee pads, which can be helpful for apartment dwellers or for times when outdoor access is difficult.

The exercise needs of the Bolognese are moderate and easily met in most living situations. These dogs require approximately 30 minutes of exercise daily, which can be divided into two or three shorter sessions. A morning walk around the neighborhood, combined with an evening stroll and some indoor playtime, typically satisfies their physical activity requirements. The Bolognese is not a breed that requires vigorous exercise or extensive running; rather, they prefer gentle walks that allow them to explore their environment, sniff interesting scents, and spend time with their owners.

Indoor activities are equally important for the Bolognese and provide mental stimulation that complements physical exercise. Interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and games of hide-and-seek with treats or toys engage the breed's intelligence and prevent boredom. The Bolognese enjoys learning tricks and can be taught to perform various behaviors like spinning, rolling over, or retrieving small objects. These mental challenges are satisfying for the breed and help strengthen the bond between dog and owner.

While the Bolognese can enjoy certain dog sports like rally obedience or tricks training, they are not typically suited for high-intensity activities like agility or flyball due to their calm temperament and moderate energy level. However, they can excel in therapy dog work, where their gentle, affectionate nature and portable size make them ideal for visiting hospitals, nursing homes, or schools. Many Bolognese dogs have successfully served as therapy animals, bringing comfort and joy to people in need.

The Bolognese is generally considered a healthy breed with a respectable lifespan of 12-14 years, with some dogs living even longer with proper care. The breed benefits from a relatively diverse gene pool compared to some other rare breeds, though potential owners should still be aware of certain health conditions that can affect Bolognese dogs. Responsible breeders conduct health testing on their breeding stock to minimize the risk of genetic conditions being passed to puppies.

One of the primary health concerns in the Bolognese is luxating patella, a condition where the kneecap dislocates or moves out of its normal position. This orthopedic issue is common in many small dog breeds and can range from mild cases that cause occasional lameness to severe cases requiring surgical correction. Dogs with luxating patellas may exhibit a skipping gait or may hold up a rear leg periodically. Maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding activities that put excessive stress on the knees can help manage mild cases.

Hip dysplasia, though less common in toy breeds than in large breeds, can occasionally affect the Bolognese. This condition involves abnormal development of the hip joint, leading to arthritis and pain over time. Responsible breeders have their dogs' hips evaluated through organizations like the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals to ensure they are only breeding dogs with healthy hip joints.

Eye problems can affect the Bolognese, with progressive retinal atrophy being one of the more serious concerns. PRA is a hereditary condition that leads to gradual vision loss and eventual blindness. Cataracts can also develop, particularly in older dogs, causing cloudiness in the lens and potentially impairing vision. Regular eye examinations by a veterinary ophthalmologist can help detect these conditions early, and genetic testing is available for some eye diseases to help breeders make informed breeding decisions.

Dental disease is a significant concern for the Bolognese and other small breeds. Their small mouths can lead to crowding of teeth, making them more prone to plaque buildup, tartar formation, and periodontal disease. Without proper dental care, dogs can develop painful infections, tooth loss, and bacteria from diseased gums can even affect other organs like the heart and kidneys. Daily teeth brushing with dog-safe toothpaste is ideal, though brushing several times weekly can still provide significant benefits.

Allergies can affect Bolognese dogs, manifesting as skin irritation, scratching, and sometimes digestive upset. Environmental allergies to pollen, dust mites, or mold can cause seasonal itching, while food allergies may require dietary changes to identify and eliminate the triggering ingredients. Flea allergy dermatitis can also be problematic, making regular flea prevention important even for dogs who spend most of their time indoors.

Regular veterinary care is essential for maintaining a Bolognese's health throughout their life. Puppies require a series of vaccinations to protect against dangerous diseases like parvovirus, distemper, and rabies. Annual or biannual wellness examinations allow veterinarians to catch potential health problems early when they are most treatable. Senior dogs, typically those over seven years old, benefit from more frequent checkups and bloodwork to monitor organ function and detect age-related conditions.

Weight management is important for the Bolognese, as obesity can exacerbate joint problems and other health issues. These small dogs don't require many calories, so portion control and avoiding excessive treats are essential. Regular exercise, even if just daily walks, helps maintain muscle tone and a healthy weight. Screening for genetic conditions through health testing of breeding dogs helps ensure puppies have the best chance of living long, healthy lives with minimal inherited health problems.

Regular veterinary check-ups and preventive care are essential for maintaining your Bichon Bolognes's health and longevity.

Grooming is one of the most time-intensive aspects of Bolognese ownership, requiring daily commitment to maintain the breed's beautiful long white coat in good condition. The single-layer coat, while minimally shedding, is prone to tangling and matting if not properly cared for, making a consistent grooming routine absolutely essential for this breed's health and comfort. Potential owners must be prepared to invest significant time in grooming or budget for regular professional grooming services.

Daily brushing is the cornerstone of Bolognese coat care. Owners should plan to spend at least 10-15 minutes each day thoroughly brushing through the entire coat using a quality pin brush or slicker brush followed by a metal comb. The brushing process should be systematic, working in sections from the skin outward to ensure all layers of the coat are reached. Pay particular attention to high-friction areas that mat easily, including behind the ears, under the front legs, in the groin area, and on the rear legs. Many Bolognese owners find it helpful to train their dogs from puppyhood to lie still on a grooming table, making the daily brushing routine more efficient and comfortable for both dog and owner.

Bathing a Bolognese requires careful attention to maintain the coat's condition and the skin's health. Most dogs need bathing every two to four weeks, though frequency can vary depending on the dog's lifestyle and coat condition. Use a high-quality dog shampoo formulated for white coats to help maintain the brilliant white color and prevent yellowing or staining. Thoroughly wet the coat with lukewarm water, apply shampoo, and work it gently through the coat, being careful not to tangle the hair by rubbing vigorously. Rinse completely, as any shampoo residue can cause skin irritation. Follow with a conditioner to help keep the coat soft and manageable. After bathing, carefully towel dry and then use a blow dryer on a low heat setting while brushing to prevent the coat from drying in clumps or tangles.

Many Bolognese owners choose to have their dogs professionally groomed every four to six weeks. Professional groomers can provide a thorough bath, trim the hair around the paws and sanitary areas, clean the ears, and ensure the coat is completely mat-free. Some pet owners opt to keep their Bolognese in a shorter "puppy cut" that maintains about one inch of coat length with the characteristic longer hair left around the head and face. This shortened style significantly reduces daily grooming time while still preserving the breed's charming appearance, though it does eliminate the traditional show appearance of the breed.

Facial care is particularly important for the Bolognese due to their white coat and tendency toward tear staining. The area around the eyes should be cleaned daily with a soft, damp cloth or specially formulated eye wipes to remove discharge and prevent the reddish-brown staining that can occur. Some dogs benefit from having the hair around the eyes carefully trimmed short to reduce irritation and staining, though this should be done carefully to avoid injury. Tear staining can sometimes indicate allergies or other health issues, so persistent or sudden increases in tearing should be discussed with a veterinarian.

If you're looking to adopt a Bichon Bolognes, consider contacting these breed-specific rescue organizations:

"Don't Shop... Please Adopt" - There are many wonderful Bichon Bologness waiting for their forever homes.