Overview
The Bolognese is a small Italian companion dog of the bichon family, named after the city of Bologna. It is kept purely as a household companion.
Its hallmark is a pure white, woolly coat that falls in loose ringlets over the body. The coat does not shed much, which suits many allergy-prone owners.
History
The exact origins of the Bolognese are unknown, but similar dogs appear in Flemish tapestries from the seventeenth century and in paintings by masters such as Titian, Goya and Watteau. Royals and nobles including Catherine the Great, Madame de Pompadour and Empress Maria Theresa are said to have owned them.
The breed reached England only in 1990 and made its Crufts debut in 2002.
Appearance
A compact, sturdy little dog with a rounded, cobby outline, dark round eyes and a black nose. The single coat is woolly rather than silky and falls in loose flocks over the body, with shorter hair on the face. It is pure white or very pale ivory.
Temperament
Gentle, loyal and quietly cheerful, the Bolognese bonds closely with its people and prefers to be near them. It can be reserved with strangers and may fret when left alone. It is clever and learns well with kind, patient training.
Care and exercise
Only moderate exercise is needed: daily walks and play suit it well. The coat needs regular brushing to prevent mats, and pets are usually kept in a shorter trim. Eyes and ears should be kept clean, and gentle company throughout the day matters.
Health
A generally long-lived breed. A 2024 UK study found a median lifespan of about 14.9 years, well above the average for dogs overall.
