Bolognese a gregarious breed

The Bolognese now popular THE Bolognese breed began a few hundred years ago in Bologna, Italy, and it is thought that the breed was already well established by the 11th or 12th Century. It is a part of the Bichon family. During the renaissance years it was a breed much favoured by European nobility because it was graceful, charming and compliant, and was a small dog more favourable for indoors.

When the nobility in Europe became outdated in later years the Bolognese became an almost extinct breed. Luckily a few breeders in Europe, especially one Franco Giannelli, who loved the breed, restored it to its present-day popularity.

The breed was brought to England by Liz Stannard in 1990 and first shown that year in imported register classes. By 2001 the breed was able to be shown at all shows around the country in their own breed class, and in 2002 they were exhibited at Crufts for the first time.

The British Bolognese Club (BBC) was formed in 1994 and now the club has its own website at www.Bolognese.org

Bolognese breed notes
The pigment to the nose, mouth and around he eyes should be black and the white coat should stand away from the body. The tail is set high over the back and the over-all look should be that of a square dog. They ideally stand at between 10 and 12 inches high at the shoulder and should have a bright, happy disposition.

Grooming should take around 15 minutes at least twice weekly. This is necessary, as the Bolognese has a non-shedding coat. That fact can be very good news for your furniture and carpets, but means that regular grooming is never to be postponed. Special care should be taken with the ear canals as they are prone to hair growth that needs removing. This can be done either by you or by a groomer.

Bolognese are bright, intelligent dogs and although they will bark to alert you they are not a yappy breed. They get on well with other dogs whether they are large or small. They bond very strongly with their owners and will follow them everywhere, from room to room in the house or out in the yard. They are a delight to own!