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Characteristics, History, and Health
Bolognese
What is a merged breed?
Basepaws analyzes this breed as part of a group that also includes Bichon Frisé, Bolognese, Coton de Tulear, Maltese.
Despite being distinct in characteristics and origin, some pairs or groups of breeds lack the number of genetic differences required to distinguish these populations from one another, particularly when only a subset of these differences are inherited by a mixed breed dog. As we continue to expand our breed database, we aim to increase the resolution of our ancestry algorithm such that differentiating between increasingly specific ancestral sources becomes possible.
The Bolognese, named after the city of Bologna, Italy, where they originated, is a small breed known for its distinctive fluffy white coat. The Bolognese is an ancient breed with a history that traces back to the Roman Empire. Belonging to the Bichon family, which includes other breeds like the Bichon Frise and the Maltese, the Bolognese was a favored pet of the Italian nobility during the Renaissance. It was considered a symbol of wealth and nobility and often given as a precious gift among nobles and royals. The breed almost became extinct in the 20th century but was saved by Italian breeders who were dedicated to preserving the breed. However, the breed remains relatively rare, even in its native Italy.
Main Info
- Origin
- Bologna, Italy
- Lineage
- Pointer-Spaniel Lineage
- Alternate Names
- Bichon Bolognese
- Life Expectancy
- 12-14 years
- Average Male Height
- 10-12 inches
- Average Female Height
- 10-12 inches
- Average Male Weight
- 6-10 pounds
- Average Female Weight
- 6-10 pounds
- Coat Length
- Long
- Coat Type
- Wavy
- Coat Colors
- White
- Coat Pattern
- Solid/None
Genetic Predispositions and Health
Bolognese can suffer from cataracts, patellar luxation, progressive retinal atrophy, progressive retinal atrophy (prcd), retinal dysplasia, and urolithiasis (urate). Genetic testing is recommended, including for the following additional conditions: hyperuricosuria, degenerative myelopathy, and progressive rod-cone degeneration.
Personality and Behavior
The Bolognese is characterized by its playful, friendly, and affectionate personality. They are intelligent dogs, quick to learn and eager to please their owners. Known for being good with children and other pets, the Bolognese can make an excellent family pet.
They can, however, be a bit shy and reserved with strangers, which makes early socialization important. Despite their small size, they are alert and can make good watchdogs. Bolognese dogs are known for their loyalty and tend to form strong bonds with their human families. They tend to get separation anxiety when not around their owners, and should be trained to tolerate normal separation early on.
Pointer-Spaniel Lineage
A canine genetic lineage is a group of individuals or entire breeds that descended from common ancestors predating modern breed formation. Often these lineages are associated with a ‘type’ of dog with a unique historical working role and associated behaviors (e.g., herding, scent hunting, etc.).
The Pointer-Spaniel lineage encompasses both pointer and spaniel breeds. They were both bred for their specialized hunting abilities in Europe. Pointers locate game and freeze in a stance, called “pointing”, to indicate to their hunter that birds are close by. Spaniels were bred to find game in underbrush and retrieve it. Both pointer and spaniel breeds were bred to enhance their strong senses, trainability, and endurance as these are advantageous in a hunting partner. Spaniels and pointers are known for their strong work ethic, ability to work closely with humans and agility. These dogs’ ability to work closely with their hunters makes them an asset during a hunt because they follow direction well and know how their hunters want them to proceed.
Example breeds with ancestry from this lineage include English Cocker Spaniel, Irish Red Setter, and German Shorthaired Pointer.
Fun Facts
The Bolognese breed was fully recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 2015. They have also been recorded in the AKC's Foundation Stock Service since 1999.
According to the AKC, Flemish craftsmen included Bolognese in their tapestry work as far back as the 17th century.
References
DOI:10.1002/9781119540687
https://www.ukcdogs.com/bolognese
https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/bolognese/
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