Bolognese
Description
The Bolognese is a small, elegant breed with a fluffy white coat that sets it apart in any room. Originating from Bologna, Italy, this breed has a rich history dating back to the Roman Empire and was once a prized companion of Italian nobility. Their soft, wavy coat is purely white and requires special care to maintain its pristine look. Despite their aristocratic past, Bolognese dogs are approachable and affectionate, often forming deep bonds with their families. They’re not overly vocal and tend to have a calm demeanor, making them excellent indoor companions. Their size ranges from 6 to 10 pounds, so they fit comfortably in smaller living spaces. While they enjoy playtime, they’re content with gentle activities and quiet moments, which suits owners looking for a low-key pet with a regal appearance.
Grooming
The Bolognese’s long, silky coat demands regular attention to avoid mats, especially behind the ears and under the armpits where tangles form quickly. Brushing or combing 3 to 5 times a week is essential to keep the coat smooth and healthy. A light trim around the sanitary areas and feet between full grooming sessions helps maintain cleanliness without overdoing it. Bathing every 3 to 6 weeks is ideal, and drying the coat straight prevents unwanted waves or curls from setting in. A full professional groom every 4 to 6 weeks keeps the coat in top shape and addresses any stubborn mats. Since the coat is solid white, watch for staining around the eyes and mouth, which can be gently wiped away with a damp cloth. Key grooming points: - Brush/combe 3–5× weekly, focus on ears and armpits - Light sanitary and feet trims between grooms - Bathe every 3–6 weeks, dry coat straight - Full groom every 4–6 weeks - Monitor for tear stains and clean as needed Pro tip: Use a detangling spray before brushing to ease out mats without pulling on the delicate coat.
Learn the Wavy routine:
→ Complete Wavy Grooming Guide
Walking
Bolognese dogs require about 25 minutes of walking each day, usually in a single session. Their low activity level means they’re happy with a gentle stroll around the neighborhood or a calm walk in the park. This breed enjoys exploring at a relaxed pace rather than vigorous exercise, which suits owners who prefer shorter, peaceful outings. A typical walking routine could look like this: a 10-minute warm-up walk to sniff and explore, followed by 15 minutes of steady-paced walking to stretch their legs and stimulate their senses. This routine keeps them mentally engaged without overexertion. Consistency is key to prevent boredom and maintain good behavior. Avoid overly long or fast walks, as the Bolognese’s small size and delicate build don’t support intense exercise. Instead, focus on quality time and gentle movement.
Boarding
When boarding a Bolognese, a crate size of 24 to 30 inches works best to provide enough room for comfort without overwhelming them. These dogs prefer calm environments and benefit from slow, patient introductions to staff and other dogs to avoid stress. Their playstyle is gentle and low-impact, so enrichment activities should focus on mental stimulation and quiet interaction rather than high-energy play. Daily exercise sessions should include calm decompression time, allowing the dog to unwind and feel secure. Staff should maintain a predictable routine to help the Bolognese adjust smoothly, as they thrive on consistency and gentle handling. Providing soft bedding and familiar toys can also ease separation anxiety during their stay. Boarding staff should be aware that this breed can be shy with strangers and may need extra reassurance. Quiet, patient care and a stable environment make all the difference for a happy boarding experience.