ALLEMAND
ESPAGNOL
FRANÇAIS
ITALIEN
NÉERLANDAIS
PORTUGAISBolognese dog
Welcome to our page dedicated to the breed of dog bolognese dog!
Here, you will find all the useful information about bolognese dog. This descriptive profile will allow you to discover the aspects of this breed. You can notably consult information about the average price, monthly and annual upkeep expenses, their health, name ideas, as well as their official recognition by competent authorities.
Explore this page to discover everything you need to know.
Overall description of the breed
The Bolognese Dog, named after the city of Bologna in Italy, is an ancient breed whose origins date back to the Renaissance. It is thought that its ancestors were probably the "canes Mellites", mentioned as early as the 4th century. Highly prized by the European bourgeoisie since the days of the Roman Empire, they were given as gifts at royal courts as a sign of peace and wealth. Although often confused with the Maltese, the Bolognese remains a rare breed today, having come close to extinction on several occasions, but its preservation has been ensured by a few passionate breeders.
This elegant little companion has been a favourite of many public figures and has been immortalised in the works of great artists such as Francisco de Goya and Titian. Definitively recognised as a breed by the FCI on 5 March 1956, the Bolognese has retained its charm and prestige over the centuries.
Bolognese are small dogs with a harmonious, muscular body, a square outline and ideal measurements. The topline is straight and short, while the chest is moderately broad and deep. The head is round, with a flat skull and moderately pronounced stop. The tail is proportionate to the rest of the body, medium-sized and abundantly coated. Its coat is luxuriously long, glossy and brilliantly pure, proudly displaying an immaculate white colour.
Beyond their remarkable appearance, Bolognese are also renowned for their gentle, affable and always playful character. They'll brighten up your everyday life with their infectious good humour and constant desire to please. As a true companion dog, they will never be far from you and bond closely with their owners. Playful and mischievous, they love to share long moments of play with their family.
Although they can be reserved around strangers, Bolognese are calm, well-balanced dogs that appreciate stability and routine in their environment. It likes a predictable social environment to feel confident in, making it an ideal companion for loving, caring families. With their unwavering loyalty and unconditional love, they will always be ready to accompany you wherever you go.
The average weight of the Bolognese varies between 2.5 and 4 kg (5.5 and 9 lb) and its height generally does not exceed 27 to 30 cm (10" to 12") for males and 25 to 28 cm (9" to 11") for females.
In short, the Bolognese Dog is an Italian treasure of ancient origins that combines elegance, charm and affection. Its rarity and prestigious history make it a unique and precious companion, capable of bringing joy and love to all those lucky enough to welcome it into their home.
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Origins
The Bolognese, often simply called Bolognese, finds its roots in Italy, more precisely in the city of Bologna, from which it takes its name. This breed is one of the oldest in the Bichon group, and its presence can be traced back to antiquity. The ancestors of these dogs were prized companions of the European nobility and bourgeoisie. The Bolognese was particularly appreciated for its white and silky coat, a distinctive sign and symbol of luxury.
History
Throughout history, the Bolognese Bichon has been a favorite of the nobility and aristocracy. In the Middle Ages, this dog was a prized gift among royals and was often used as a means of diplomatic negotiation. Over the centuries, its popularity fluctuated, but it always maintained a status as an elegant companion dog. It was only in the 20th century that the breed began to become popular as a family and companion dog for everyone.
Standard
The Bolognese Bichon is a small, sturdy dog with a round head and expressive black eyes. The breed standard states that the coat must be pure white, long, and silky, without being curly, distinguishing the Bolognese from other Bichons. The ears are long and drooping, covered in long hair. The tail is carried gracefully curled over the back. These aspects must be strictly adhered to for dog shows.
Physical characteristics
The Bolognese Bichon is a small dog, generally measuring between 25 and 30 cm at the withers and weighing between 4 and 5 kg. Its white coat is one of its most remarkable characteristics, requiring regular maintenance to stay shiny and knot-free. Its gait is lively and elegant, often reflecting its cheerful mood and energy.
Character
The Bolognese Bichon is known for its affectionate temperament and playful character. It is a loyal companion who loves to spend time with its owner. Though small, it is quite courageous and can sometimes be a little protective. However, it is generally well-balanced and makes an excellent pet for families and individuals alike.
Life expectancy
The life expectancy of a Bolognese Bichon is typically between 12 and 15 years. As with all dogs, a good diet, a loving environment, and regular veterinary care are essential to ensure a long and healthy life.
Exercise and activity needs
Despite its small size, the Bolognese Bichon is a fairly active dog that requires daily exercise to stay healthy. A daily walk and play sessions are usually enough to satisfy its activity needs. It also enjoys intelligence games that stimulate its mind.
Recommended diet
The Bolognese Bichon's diet must be well-balanced and adapted to its size, age, and activity level. It is recommended to choose high-quality food for small dogs, rich in proteins and low in fats to avoid overweight.
Training and obedience
The Bolognese Bichon is intelligent and generally receptive to training, especially if it is undertaken consistently and positively. He responds well to positive reinforcement methods, such as rewards and praise. Early socialization is important for developing balanced behavior.
Behavior with children
Thanks to its gentle and friendly temperament, the Bolognese Bichon gets along well with children. It is patient and can play for hours, making it an ideal companion for young families. However, as with all interactions between dogs and young children, adult supervision is essential to ensure the safety of everyone.
Compatibility with Other Animals
The Bolognese Bichon generally gets along well with other dogs and pets, especially if raised with them or socialized from a young age. Its sociable nature makes it an ideal playmate for other animals.
Grooming needs
Grooming is essential for the Bolognese Bichon, whose long white coat requires regular brushing to prevent knots and keep the fur clean. A monthly bath is usually sufficient, unless the dog gets very dirty. It is also important to regularly check the ears and eyes to prevent infections.
Health
The Bolognese Bichon is generally a robust dog, but it can be prone to certain genetic conditions such as joint problems, heart diseases, and eye disorders. Regular visits to the veterinarian are necessary to maintain its health.
Average price
The price of a Bolognese Bichon puppy can vary considerably depending on its lineage, place of purchase, and conformity to the breed standard. Generally, prices range between 1000 and 3000 euros.
Expenses
The annual expenses for a Bolognese Bichon include food, veterinary care, grooming, and accessories such as leash and collar. These expenses can range from 1000 to 1500 euros or from 1100 to 1650 US dollars, depending on the cost of living in your area and the specific needs of your dog.
Name ideas
Choosing a name for a Bolognese Bichon can be inspired by its sweetness and elegance. For example, "Bianca" means white in Italian, recalling its beautiful fur. "Gioia" means joy, reflecting its cheerful temperament. "Luce" translates to light, evoking its radiant effect on those around it. "Amico" means friend, perfect for a loyal companion. "Tesoro", which means treasure, expresses the value that this dog can represent for its family.
Legislation and regulation
There are no specific legal restrictions regarding the possession of a Bichon Bolognese in most countries. However, owners must comply with local regulations regarding vaccination, electronic chip identification, and responsible pet ownership.
Official recognition
The Bolognese Bichon is officially recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), which guarantees compliance with precise standards in terms of quality and health of the breed. This recognition also facilitates its participation in various international dog shows.
Pedigrees
Pedigrees are available for Bolognese Bichons from national canine clubs affiliated with the FCI. These documents are essential to attest to the purity of the breed and are often required at dog competitions.
Destination and usage
Traditionally, the Bolognese Bichon has been used as a companion and lap dog. Today, it continues to excel in these roles, providing companionship and joy to its owners around the world.
Prohibitions
There is no known specific restriction for the Bichon Bolognese breed. However, some countries or regions may have strict rules regarding the importation of dogs, which may require additional checks for new owners wishing to import a Bichon Bolognese.
Breeders of bolognese dog
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Breed clubs of bolognese dog
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