The Bolognese presents a distinctive appearance that sets it apart from other small white companion breeds. This toy dog displays a compact, square body structure with height at the withers approximately equal to body length, creating balanced proportions that are both elegant and sturdy. The overall silhouette conveys substance despite the breed's small size, with a well-muscled body hidden beneath the characteristic fluffy coat. Adult Bolognese typically stand between ten and twelve inches at the shoulder, with weights ranging from five and a half to nine pounds, making them substantial enough to be hardy while remaining truly portable companions.
The head is of medium length and width, presenting a slightly rounded skull that flows smoothly into a well-defined stop. The muzzle is shorter than the skull, roughly forty percent of the total head length, and maintains a square profile with good width to the end. The nose is large and black, a striking contrast against the pure white coat, with well-opened nostrils that contribute to the breed's alert expression. Eyes are large, round, and dark in color, set well forward on the face and positioned to create an attentive, intelligent expression that captures the breed's devoted nature. The eye rims are fully pigmented in black, adding definition to the facial features.
Ears are set high on the skull and hang close to the head, long enough to reach approximately halfway down the muzzle when gently extended forward. The ear leather is relatively thin and covered with the same long, fluffy coat that covers the body. The neck is of medium length, proudly arched and free from throatiness, flowing smoothly into well-laid-back shoulders. The body displays a square outline with a level topline, well-sprung ribs that provide adequate lung capacity, and a slightly tucked-up underline. The chest reaches to the elbow level with good width and depth, while the loin is short and slightly arched, connecting to a moderately sloped croup.
The forequarters show well-laid shoulders with upper arms of equal length to the shoulder blade, creating proper angulation. Front legs are perfectly straight when viewed from the front, with elbows held close to the body and pasterns that are strong yet slightly sloping to provide cushioning. Feet are oval-shaped with well-arched toes and thick, dark pads. The hindquarters display good angulation with well-muscled thighs, strong hocks that are perpendicular to the ground, and rear legs that move parallel when viewed from behind. The tail is set as a natural extension of the topline and carried curved over the back in a graceful arc, covered with long, flowing coat that often mingles with the body coat.
The coat represents the breed's most distinctive feature and requires careful attention in the breed standard. Unlike many small white breeds, the Bolognese has a single coat without an undercoat, consisting of long, flocked hair that creates a fluffy texture throughout the body. The coat stands away from the body in loose curls or ringlets, never lying flat, and has a somewhat woolly texture that is never silky or harsh. Hair is longer on the body, forming flocks or loose curls, while the face typically shows shorter hair that still maintains the characteristic texture. The coat color is pure white without markings or shading, though slight ivory tones are acceptable. Any other colors or markings are considered faults.
Movement in the Bolognese is free and energetic, reflecting the breed's sound structure and good health. The gait shows good reach in front and strong drive from the rear, with the topline remaining level. Legs move parallel when viewed from front or rear, converging slightly toward the center line as speed increases. The overall impression is one of effortless movement that covers ground efficiently while maintaining balance and grace. Any tendency toward stilted movement, paddling, or crossing of limbs is considered undesirable.
Disqualifications in the breed standard typically include significant deviations from proper type, such as colors other than white, overly aggressive or shy temperament, and significant structural faults that would impair the dog's ability to function as a sound companion. Sexual dimorphism is present but subtle, with males typically showing slightly more substance and larger heads while females present a more refined appearance. Both sexes should maintain the essential characteristics of balance, soundness, and the distinctive coat texture that defines the breed.
Affection Level
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Extremely devoted and loving with family members, forms deep bonds
Good with Children
Excellent with gentle, respectful children; supervision needed with very young kids due to small size
Good with Other Dogs
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Generally friendly and social with other dogs when properly socialized
Good with Other Pets
Excellent compatibility with cats and other household pets
Playfulness
Moderately playful, enjoys interactive games but not hyperactive
Energy Level
Moderate energy, content with short walks and indoor play
Trainability
Intelligent and eager to please, responds well to positive reinforcement
Intelligence
Smart and perceptive, quick to learn household routines
Tendency to Bark
Low to moderate barking, may alert to visitors but not excessive
Amount of Shedding
Minimal shedding, considered hypoallergenic but requires regular grooming
Grooming Needs
High maintenance coat requires daily brushing and regular professional grooming
Prey Drive
Very low prey drive, bred purely as companion with minimal hunting instinct