Pet Wiki

Bolognese

Also called Bichon Bolognese, Bolo, Bottolo

Recognised breedFCI group 9Short profile

From Italy (Bologna, Emilia-Romagna)12

At a glance the quick version

Weight2.5 to 4 kg2
Height, male27 to 30 cm2
Height, female25 to 28 cm2
Lifespan12 to 15 years31
Sizetoy
calm and serene
deeply loyal to its people
low-shedding coat
23

Coat and looks how to spot one

long, woolly, single coat

A long, fluffy coat of soft flocks or loose ringlets that stands away from the body rather than lying flat, with no undercoat and minimal shedding. It is shown untrimmed and natural.213

Colourspure whitevery light ivory shading allowed2

Personality what they are like

A peaceful, gentle little companion that is not overly busy but is devoted to its owner and household, enjoying quiet time close to its people.2

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Modest needs: up to about 30 minutes of exercise a day.3

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Daily brushing and combing to keep the coat free of mats; the coat is kept natural rather than clipped for show.3

Home where they are happiest

Suits flats and apartments as well as houses, in town or country; a small garden is enough.3

Company who they like around

Very attached to its family and happiest with company.2

The story where it all began

A member of the bichon family that shares distant roots with the Maltese, the Bolognese was a treasured gift among European nobles during the Renaissance. It reached the UK in 1990 and was first shown at Crufts in 2002.21

Fun facts for the dinner table

  1. 1

    Titian painted Duke Federico Gonzaga with a Bolognese-type dog, and Goya and Watteau also portrayed the breed.1

  2. 2

    Catherine the Great, Madame de Pompadour and Empress Maria Theresa are said to have owned them.1

  3. 3

    A 2024 UK study found a median lifespan of 14.9 years, among the longest of the breeds studied.1

  4. 4

    Its coat forms loose flocks that stand off the body instead of falling flat.2

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed name comes from the city of Bologna in Italy.4

Name ideas for your new friend

BiancaPippoNonnaMochiBiscottoGinoFioccoTruffaZuccheroRoccoFioraPesto

A day in the life told by a Bolognese

This morning I followed my human from bedroom to kitchen, my paws tap-tapping on the tiles. I sat by the chair while she sipped her coffee, then we went to the sunny spot on the rug. I curled into a perfect little donut on her lap, feeling her hand stroke my fur. Later, we walked to the park, I sniffed every daisy and wagged at a friendly sparrow. Back home, I guarded her knitting from the window. When she laughed at the TV, I woofed once, just to join in. Perfect day.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

FCI
Standard No. 196, Group 9 Companion and Toy Dogs (Bichons); standard published 13 November 20152
The Royal Kennel Club
Recognised, Toy Group; first shown at Crufts 20023
UKC
Recognised1

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Bolognese. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

  • 1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

  1. Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
  2. Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
  3. Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

  • 1 cooking pumpkin
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
  • Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

  1. Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
  2. Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
  3. Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
  4. Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
  5. Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
  6. Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
  7. Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

  • 1 egg
  • 170g boiled chicken breast
  • 100g cooked plain rice
  • 60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
  • 680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
  2. Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
  3. Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
  4. Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
  5. Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
  6. Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
  7. Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Bolognese, and at what times?

Feed your Bolognese at least two meals a day for adults, and three to four for puppies. Consistency in timing helps digestion. Check the food label and your vet for the right amounts.5

What should a Bolognese eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed a high-quality dog food suitable for its age and size. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onion, garlic, and xylitol. Always ask your vet for a tailored diet plan.6

How often should I bathe a Bolognese?

Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every 28 days, while general guidance recommends at least every three months. Adjust based on your dog's activity and skin condition.7 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Bolognese need brushing?

Brush your Bolognese daily to prevent mats in its long woolly coat. Furry Diary's plan suggests every two days, but daily is ideal for this breed.37 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Bolognese's nails, and how often?

Trim your Bolognese's nails every three weeks or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time to avoid the quick, using dog nail clippers. Ask your vet or groomer for a demonstration.7 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Bolognese need?

Your Bolognese needs about 30 minutes of exercise daily, such as a walk and playtime. It adapts well to apartment living.3 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Bolognese's teeth and ears?

Brush your Bolognese's teeth daily with dog toothpaste and check ears weekly for moisture. Gently dry floppy ears to prevent infections. Never use cotton swabs inside the ear.7 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Bolognese live?

A Bolognese typically lives 12 to 15 years, bringing many years of loving companionship.31

Is a Bolognese good with children and other pets?

The Bolognese is a peaceful, gentle dog devoted to its family. With proper socialization, it can be good with children and other pets. Always supervise early interactions.2

Can a Bolognese be left alone?

Bolognese are very attached to their family and prefer company, so they may not enjoy long periods alone. If you must leave them, provide enrichment and consider a pet sitter.2

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.

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Where this comes from

Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? [email protected].

  1. Wikipedia: Bolognese dog en.wikipedia.orgused for names, history, art, famous owners, longevity study
  2. FCI Standard No. 196 Bolognese fci.beused for size, weight, coat, colour, temperament, history
  3. The Royal Kennel Club: Bolognese royalkennelclub.comused for exercise, grooming, living space, lifespan, recognition
  4. akc.org akc.org
  5. VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
  6. ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
  7. ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions

Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.