The Bolognese breed of dog has a long history that dates back to the 11th and 12th centuries in Bologna, Italy. It grew in popularity among the nobility during the Renaissance era, and King Umberto gave one as a birthday present to Princess Jose of Belgium. Additionally, in 1668, Cosimo de Medici sent eight Bolognese to Brussels as gifts to several wealthy and influential families.
The Bolognese is a toy dog breed. Males and females are roughly the same sizes. They are generally between 10 and 12 inches tall and weigh between 5.5 and 9 pounds. At three months old, puppies typically weigh between 3 and 5 pounds. When they are six months old, puppies weigh between 4.5 and 8.8 pounds. Most Bolognese dogs are fully grown by the time they are nine months old.
Overall, these are healthy dogs. However, there are a few common health concerns that you should be on the lookout for in your dog.
– Dental problems – Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease – Hip dysplasia
These dogs have a very devoted and sensitive personalities. They are relatively easy-going and are happiest when they are with their family; they make great companion dogs. If left alone, a Bolognese can develop separation anxiety and engage in destructive behaviors.
There is a lot that makes the Bolognese a very unique dog breed. The care you will need to provide a Bolognese will be different from what dogs in different breeds require. Keeping the nutritional needs, health concerns, and other factors in mind when thinking about how you’ll care for your Bolognese dog is important.
Some owners also choose to feed their dogs a raw diet. Raw diets include fish and meat. If you choose to go this route, be prepared to put in a little more work when preparing and planning your dog’s meals. Or, try a freeze-dried kibble infused with raw protein. Especially for small dogs that can get dental issues, crunchy, dry kibble is best.
These dogs are known for their fluffy white coat. While their hair doesn’t shed, and they are a hypoallergenic dog breed, they are a pretty high-maintenance dog. Their white curly hair will require frequent brushing and bathing to keep it clean and well-maintained.
Bolognese is an intelligent dog breed which makes them relatively easy to train. Positive reinforcement training methods will be most successful with this breed. However, they may become easily bored if you are too repetitive. Adding some variety to your training can help it to be more successful.
Bolognese dogs do not require nearly the amount of exercise that some other breeds need. Most times, they will be content hanging out with their owners in the house. However, it is important to take them out for a walk every day for about 20 to 25 minutes.