A cheerful, even-tempered lapdog that is bright, easy to get along with and loving toward everyone it meets. It likes to stay close to its favourite people and was bred to be a relaxed house companion.21
how to spot oneBolonka coat and colours
long, wavy to curly
A long coat falling in big waves or curls, low-shedding, with males often sporting a beard and moustache. The tail curls over so its tip touches the back.1
Comes inblackbrowngreyredwolf-greywhite (Franzuskaya)1
a typical week and yearThe care rhythm
A typical home-care rhythm for a Bolonka. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
Brushingevery day
Bathevery 8 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery 3 weeks
Ear checkFloppy ears trap moisture, so check and dry themevery week
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery day
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 10every year
how busy a day looksBolonka exercise needs
A companion breed with moderate needs; gentle play and daily walks suit it, rough play does not.1
where they are happiestBolonka at home
Originally bred for apartment living and happy in small homes.2
who they like aroundBolonka with people and other pets
Very people-focused; enjoys being with its family and may guard its favourite humans.12
How often should I feed my Bolonka, and at what times?
Feed your Bolonka at least two meals a day for an adult, and three to four smaller meals for a puppy. Consistent meal times help their digestion, and free feeding is not recommended for puppies.3
What should a Bolonka eat, and which foods are dangerous?
Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for their age and size. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts. Always check with your vet for specific dietary advice.4
How often should I bathe a Bolonka?
Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every 56 days, but you can bathe more often if needed. Use a gentle dog shampoo and avoid over-bathing to keep their coat healthy.5
How often does a Bolonka need brushing?
Brush your Bolonka daily to prevent matting in their long, curly coat. Pet Wiki's plan suggests brushing at least once a week, but daily is best for this breed.15
How do I trim a Bolonka's nails, and how often?
Trim nails every 21 days or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick to avoid pain. If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for guidance.5
How much exercise does a Bolonka need?
Your Bolonka needs moderate exercise, like gentle play and daily walks. They are a companion breed and do not enjoy rough play. Pet Wiki suggests daily walks and playtime.1
How do I look after a Bolonka's teeth and ears?
Brush your Bolonka's teeth daily with dog-safe toothpaste, and check their floppy ears weekly for moisture. Clean ears gently without pushing anything inside. Pet Wiki recommends daily brushing and weekly ear checks.5
How long does a Bolonka live?
The lifespan of a Bolonka varies, but they are generally a healthy breed. For specific longevity, ask your vet or breeder, as it depends on individual care and genetics.
Is a Bolonka good with children and other pets?
Yes, the Bolonka is a cheerful, even-tempered lapdog that is loving toward everyone it meets. They are bright and easy to get along with, making them good with children and other pets when properly socialized.21
Can a Bolonka be left alone?
Bolonkas are very people-focused and prefer to stay close to their family. They may not do well when left alone for long periods, so consider their need for companionship. Consult your vet or a good breeder for advice on alone time.12
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.
per year, in your countryWhat a Bolonka costs
Running costs for a Bolonka, built from current prices in each country: food scaled to the weight of the breed, insurance to its size, the rest per country. The purchase price and unplanned vet bills come on top.
Estimates from the sources linked on each line. Food: a complete dry food at about 3,600 kcal/kg at the NRC maintenance energy for the average weight of the breed. Insurance: a typical adult policy scaled by size; real quotes depend on breed, age and cover.
by countryIs the Bolonka legal where you live?
No breed-specific rule names the Bolonka in the 61 countries we check. General dangerous-dog laws still apply everywhere, and some cities keep their own lists.
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
for the dinner tableFun facts
1
'Tsvetnaya Bolonka' means 'coloured lapdog' in Russian.1
2
The white variety is called Franzuskaya, a nod to the breed's French roots.1
3
It is described as the rarest of the bichon-type breeds, yet is especially popular in Germany.1
the story behind itWhere the name comes from
The breed's name, Bolonka, comes from the Russian word for 'lap dog' (bolonka), and the full name 'Russkaya Tsvetnaya Bolonka' translates to 'Russian Colored Lapdog.' The white variety is called 'Franzuskaya Bolonka,' meaning 'French lap dog.'1
I woke up tucked against my human's side, my nose tucked under her chin. After breakfast, I pranced to the window to greet the postman with a happy bark. Then we settled on the sofa, I rearranged the cushions just so, then snoozed on her chest. At lunch, I supervised her sandwich-making from the rug. Later, we played gentle fetch with a soft toy; I let her win twice. Evening meant cuddles by the lamp, my head on her knee. I sighed, content. This is the life.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
where it all beganBolonka history
Small bichon-type dogs reached Russian nobles as gifts from France in the 18th century. In the Soviet era, when imports were limited, breeders developed a local coloured lapdog from bichon, poodle, Shih Tzu, Pekingese and Bolognese stock, and the name Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka has been used since 1966.1
Bolognese
Bichon Frise
Havanese
Coton de Tulear