Bolognese or Bichon Bolognese
 FindaPetOnlineAdult Size: 8-9 pounds
Breed: Bolognese or Bichon Bolognese
Breed Group: Toy

Characteristics:
  • Energy Level: Medium
  • Life Expectancy: 10-15 years
  • Shedding: Minimal








The Bolognese is an FSS (Foundation Stock Service) breed. That means it is not recognized as an official breed by the American Kennel Club, but it will be soon. The Bolognese Club of America (ACB) is committed to obtaining recognition of the breed as well as preserving and celebrating it.

Playful and friendly, this rare breed is a true lap dog. Smaller than its cousin, the Bichon Frise, the Bolognese is compact, portable and up for almost anything. Playful and eager to please, the Bolognese loves to travel and enjoys spending time with its owner.

When it comes to training, the Bolognese shows intelligence and a real willingness to please its owner. This eagerness to please means the Bolognese typically prefers learning performance tricks over obstacle courses and working tasks. You’re more likely to teach your Bolognese how to sit pretty or shake a paw than fetch the newspaper.

Unlike many small dogs, the Bolognese is not considered “yappy” and while they will bark if they sense danger or anything unusual, they’re not typically loud animals. The Bolognese gets along with most people, including children, but can sometimes be reserved around new people.

In terms of health issues, veterinarians and breeders suggest that you ask about the dog’s risk for patellar luxation, epilepsy, cataracts, bleed disorders and heart disease.

Historically, this breed stems from the Bichon family of breeds and is believed to have originated in Italy sometime in the 11th century. Like its cousin, the Bichon Frise, the Bolognese was a popular lap pet in the royal courts of Europe .