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Bolognese - Information and NZ Breed Standards

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Bolognese


General Information - Bolognese


Group:
Toy

Size:
Small

Lifespan:
12-15 years

Exercise:
Little

Grooming:
Considerable

Trainability:
High

Watchdog Ability:
High

Protection Ability:
Very low

Area of Origin:
Italy

Date of Origin:
Ancient times

Other Names:
Bichon Bolegnese

Original Function:
Companion


History

Its origins are confused with those of the Maltese, because its distant ancestors are the same little dogs mentioned in Latin by Aristotle (384-322 BC) under the denomination of "canes melitenses". Already known in the Roman era, the Bolognese appears most especially among the much appreciated gifts made during a whole era by the powerful of that time. Cosimo De Medici (1389-1464) brought no less than eight to Brussels as gifts to as many Belgian noblemen. Philipe II, King of Spain from 1556 to 1598, after having received two as a gift from the Duke d'Este, thanked the donor in writing saying "that these two little dogs are the most royal gifts one can make to an emperor". Bolognese are represented in paintings of Titian, of Pierre Breughel called le Vieux and Goya.  

Temperament

The Bolognese is a delightful companion dog that bonds strongly with its human family; it is a serious and even-tempered dog that is very affectionate and intelligent.  

Upkeep

Although small, the Bolognese is an active dog and needs daily exercise. Its needs can be met with a vigorous indoor game or, better, a romp in the yard or a short walk on leash. The white powder-puff coat needs brushing and combing every other day, plus scissoring and trimming every two months. It doesn't shed, but the loose hairs become entangled in the coat and can mat. It may be difficult to keep white in some areas. This is not a dog that should live outdoors.

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