Bolognese
🧠 Temperament & character
The Bolognese is calm, serious and very sensitive - an attentive observer that bonds closely to one person. Towards strangers it is rather reserved, but quickly warms up once it has gained trust. It is cuddly and compatible, but less exuberant than the Bichon Frisé. As a clever, sensitive dog it reacts strongly to the mood of its people.
📜 Origin & history
The Bolognese is a very old Italian breed that was already kept at the courts of northern Italy in the Renaissance and owes its name to the city of Bologna. Princely families such as the Gonzaga and the Medici valued the small white dogs and gave them as precious gifts to European noble houses. Painters such as Titian and Goya immortalised them in their works. After a decline in the 20th century, Italian enthusiasts preserved the breed from disappearing.
✂️ Grooming, care & training
The long, flocked coat of the Bolognese does not form curls but loose flocks and is not stripped or clipped if one wishes to preserve the natural look. It sheds hardly at all, but must be brushed regularly to avoid matting. As a calm companion dog it needs only moderate exercise - daily walks and some play are enough. It is teachable and enjoys learning, but because of its sensitivity needs especially gentle, patient training.
🩺 Health
The Bolognese is considered a robust, long-lived breed with a life expectancy of about 12 to 14 years. In terms of health it is comparatively unproblematic; rarely patellar luxation or eye problems occur. Reputable breeders pay attention to healthy kneecaps and eyes as well as a balanced temperament in the parent animals. Regular dental care is advisable in this small breed.
🏡 Who is this breed right for?
The Bolognese is an ideal companion for people who spend a lot of time with their dog - such as seniors, couples or quiet families. It is well suited to an apartment and also suitable for first-time owners, provided they take its affectionate nature seriously. Since it is very people-oriented, it tolerates longer periods alone poorly and should not be placed in a hectic household without time for it. In Switzerland it is a pleasant, unobtrusive city dog that is happy even in smaller apartments.