Bologneser
Breed Description

The Bologneser, more commonly known as the Bolognese or Bichon Bolognese, is a small companion breed with a rich history dating back centuries. The name derives from the northern Italian city of Bologna, where the breed was developed and cherished. This ancient breed is part of the Bichon family, which includes closely related breeds such as the Bichon Frisé, Maltese, Havanese, Coton de Tuléar, and Löwchen. Despite their shared Mediterranean ancestry, the Bolognese is a distinct breed with its own unique characteristics and temperament.

In different regions and historical periods, the breed has been known by various names reflecting its origins and connections. The Latin term "canes melitenses," used by Aristotle as early as 384-322 BC, referred to small white dogs from the Mediterranean region that are believed to be distant ancestors of the Bolognese. Throughout the Renaissance period, these dogs were simply referred to as "Bolo" by their aristocratic owners, a nickname that persists today among breed enthusiasts and owners.

The breed's recognition by major kennel clubs came relatively late compared to some other ancient breeds. The Bolognese was brought to England in 1990 by Liz Stannard and was first shown that year in breed registries. The famous Crufts dog show, one of the world's most prestigious canine events, first featured the Bolognese in 2002, marking an important milestone in the breed's modern recognition. In the United States, the breed remains relatively rare but is recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) through its Foundation Stock Service (FSS), a program designed for rare breeds working toward full recognition. The breed is also recognized by the United Kennel Club (UKC) and internationally by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), where it is classified in Group 9, Section 1 as a Bichon-type breed.

Despite centuries of popularity among European nobility, the Bolognese nearly faced extinction between the decline of the aristocracy and the devastation of World War II. The breed's numbers dwindled dramatically, and only through the dedicated efforts of a small group of European breeders was the Bolognese saved from disappearing entirely. Today, while still considered a rare breed, the Bolognese population is stable and growing, with devoted breed clubs and enthusiasts working to preserve and promote these charming companion dogs.

The Bolognese breed is supported by several dedicated organizations worldwide that work to preserve breed standards, promote responsible breeding practices, and protect the health and welfare of these dogs. The American Bolognese Club serves as the primary breed club in the United States, providing education, resources, and support for breeders and owners. This organization works closely with the American Kennel Club to advance the breed toward full recognition beyond its current Foundation Stock Service status.

The British Bolognese Club, established when the breed was first introduced to the United Kingdom in 1990, has been instrumental in developing the breed's presence in Britain. The club provides guidance on breed standards, organizes events, and connects breeders and owners throughout the UK. These national breed clubs work together with international organizations to maintain consistent standards and promote the breed's welfare globally.

Breed standards for the Bolognese emphasize the importance of the breed's distinctive characteristics. The ideal Bolognese is a small, stocky dog with a square build, measuring approximately 10-12 inches at the shoulder. The breed should display a serene expression, noble carriage, and a long, fluffy pure white coat that stands away from the body. The coat should be single-layered, with a cotton-like texture that forms loose ringlets rather than tight curls. The face should have a slightly rounded skull, dark round eyes with black eye rims, and a distinctive black nose.

The breed standard specifies that movement should be free and purposeful, with good reach and drive despite the dog's small size. The overall impression should be one of a compact, well-balanced dog with an aristocratic bearing. Temperament is considered equally important to physical conformation, with standards calling for dogs that are calm, affectionate, loyal, and devoted to their families while being somewhat reserved with strangers.

Responsible breeders following these standards conduct health screenings for conditions known to affect the breed, including patella evaluations to check for luxating patellas and comprehensive eye examinations to detect progressive retinal atrophy and other ocular conditions. Many breed clubs recommend additional health testing for hip dysplasia and Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease. These health initiatives help ensure that Bolognese puppies are healthy and that genetic health issues are minimized through careful breeding practices.

The breed's recognition by major kennel clubs includes specific classifications that reflect its purpose and characteristics. Organizations worldwide agree that the Bolognese is first and foremost a companion breed, developed to provide affection and companionship rather than to perform working tasks. This classification influences judging criteria at dog shows and helps potential owners understand what to expect from the breed in terms of temperament and needs.

• American Kennel Club (AKC): "Foundation Stock Service"
• United Kennel Club (UKC): "Recognized"
• Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI): "Recognized - Group 9, Section 1"
• The Kennel Club (UK): "Recognized - Toy Group"
• Canadian Kennel Club (CKC): "Not Currently Recognized"

The Bolognese is a small, stocky dog with a distinctive square build that is as long as it is tall, creating a balanced and proportionate appearance. The breed typically stands 10-12 inches at the shoulder, with males occasionally being slightly taller than females, though the difference is minimal. Weight ranges from 6-10 pounds, with most dogs falling toward the middle of this range. Despite their diminutive size, Bolognese dogs possess a sturdy, muscular build that conveys stability and substance.

The most striking feature of the Bolognese is undoubtedly its magnificent coat. The pure white, fluffy coat is the breed's hallmark, giving these dogs a cloud-like appearance that has captivated admirers for centuries. The coat is single-layered without an undercoat, consisting of long hair that stands away from the body in loose ringlets or flocks. The texture is incredibly soft and cotton-like, unlike the silky coat of related breeds like the Maltese. The hair grows long over the entire body, with shorter hair only on the muzzle. When properly maintained, the coat flows gracefully and moves beautifully as the dog walks. While the breed standard calls for pure white, very slight shades of ivory are acceptable, though uncommon.

The Bolognese head is of medium length and appears proportionally large due to the abundant coat. The skull is slightly ovoid when viewed from the front, with a well-defined stop between the forehead and muzzle. The muzzle is square and well-developed, approximately one-third the length of the entire head. The nose is large and black, as are the lips and eye rims, providing striking contrast against the white coat. The eyes are large, round, and dark brown to black in color, set well forward on the face and conveying an expression of intelligence and curiosity. The high-set ears are long and pendulous, hanging close to the head, and when covered with the abundant coat, they give the head an even more rounded appearance.

The body structure reflects the breed's square proportions, with the length from shoulder to buttock equal to the height at the withers. The topline is level, the chest is deep and well-developed, and the ribs are well-sprung. The legs are straight and well-boned for the size of the dog, with the front legs standing perpendicular to the ground and the rear legs showing good angulation. The feet are oval-shaped and compact, with well-arched toes and black pads and nails. The tail is characteristic of the breed, set in line with the croup and carried in a graceful curve over the back, covered with abundant long hair.

The Bolognese is one of the oldest European companion dog breeds, with a history stretching back to at least the 11th and 12th centuries. The breed's origins lie in Bologna, Italy, a prosperous city in the northern part of the country that was a center of culture, trade, and learning during the Middle Ages and Renaissance. While the exact ancestry of the Bolognese remains somewhat mysterious, the breed is believed to descend from small white dogs mentioned in ancient texts, including writings by the philosopher Aristotle, who referred to them as "canes melitenses" around 384-322 BC.

These small white dogs were widespread throughout the Mediterranean region and are considered the common ancestors of all Bichon-type breeds, including the Maltese, Bichon Frisé, Havanese, Coton de Tuléar, and Löwchen. What distinguished the Bolognese from these related breeds was its specific development in the Bologna region, where selective breeding refined the characteristics we recognize today. The breed became particularly associated with the aristocracy and ruling families of Italy during the Renaissance period, when Bologna was a major cultural center.

The Bolognese rose to prominence as the ultimate status symbol among European nobility. These small white dogs were considered the most precious gifts that could be exchanged between aristocrats and royalty. The Gonzaga family, a noble dynasty that ruled parts of Italy from 1328 to 1708, was particularly known for breeding Bolognese dogs in their palatial estates. Cosimo de Medici (1389-1464), the powerful banker and de facto ruler of Florence, famously brought eight Bolognese dogs to Brussels as gifts for Belgian noblemen, helping to spread the breed's popularity throughout Europe.

Numerous historical figures of great importance owned and adored Bolognese dogs. Catherine the Great of Russia (1729-1796) kept Bolognese companions in her palace. Madame de Pompadour (1721-1764), the influential mistress of King Louis XV of France, was devoted to her Bolognese dogs. King Philip II of Spain received two Bolognese as a gift from Duke Alfonso II d'Este of Ferrara and subsequently wrote a letter declaring them "the most royal gifts one can make to an emperor." Empress Maria Theresa of Austria and Josephine, wife of Napoleon I, also counted themselves among the breed's admirers. Even in more modern times, actress Marilyn Monroe owned a Bolognese, continuing the tradition of celebrities being charmed by these elegant companions.

The breed's presence in art provides additional documentation of its long history and high status. Bolognese dogs appear in numerous works by master painters of the Renaissance and Baroque periods. The Venetian painter Titian (Tiziano Vecellio) depicted Duke Federico Gonzaga with his Bolognese dog in the 16th century. Spanish artist Francisco de Goya included Bolognese dogs in several of his works. French artists Antoine Watteau and François Boucher also painted these small white dogs. Flemish tapestries from the 17th century show Bolognese dogs in domestic scenes, providing evidence of the breed's appearance and role in aristocratic households centuries ago.

The breed's fortunes declined dramatically with the fall of the aristocracy in Europe. The French Revolution was particularly devastating, as many Bolognese dogs belonging to noble families were killed along with their owners. The two World Wars further decimated the breed's population, and by the mid-20th century, the Bolognese was perilously close to extinction. Only through the dedicated efforts of a small group of European breeders, particularly in Italy, was the breed preserved and rebuilt.

The modern revival of the Bolognese began in earnest during the 1970s and 1980s, as breed enthusiasts worked to increase population numbers while maintaining the breed's distinctive characteristics and temperament. The breed was introduced to England in 1990 and made its debut at Crufts, the world's largest dog show, in 2002. In the United States, the Bolognese remains relatively rare but has gained recognition through the American Kennel Club's Foundation Stock Service. Today, while still not as numerous as some other companion breeds, the Bolognese enjoys a devoted following of breeders and owners who appreciate its unique combination of beauty, intelligence, and companionship.

The Bolognese is renowned for its calm, gentle, and affectionate temperament, making it an ideal companion dog for the right owner. This breed forms exceptionally strong bonds with its family members and is happiest when in close proximity to its people. The Bolognese is often described as a "velcro dog" because of its tendency to stay close to its owners, following them from room to room and seeking constant companionship. This intense devotion makes the breed particularly suitable for retirees, people who work from home, or families where someone is usually present, as Bolognese dogs do not tolerate long periods of solitude well.

One of the breed's defining characteristics is its serene and composed demeanor. Unlike some small breeds that can be hyperactive or nervous, the Bolognese maintains an admirable calmness in most situations. They are not typically yappy or excitable, though they remain alert and will bark to announce visitors or unusual occurrences. This balanced temperament makes them excellent apartment dogs and well-suited to urban living. They adapt readily to their owner's lifestyle and are equally content relaxing quietly at home or accompanying their people on errands and outings.

Intelligence is another hallmark of the breed. Bolognese dogs are quick learners with sharp minds that readily grasp new concepts. They excel at reading human emotions and body language, seeming to intuitively understand their owner's moods. This emotional intelligence, combined with their desire to please, makes them highly trainable when positive reinforcement methods are employed. However, their intelligence can also manifest as occasional stubbornness, particularly if they perceive training as boring or repetitive. Keeping training sessions short, varied, and reward-based yields the best results.

With strangers, the Bolognese tends to be somewhat reserved initially, displaying the discriminating nature that comes from centuries of being bred as aristocratic companions. They are not typically aggressive or overly fearful, but rather cautious and observant when meeting new people. With proper socialization from puppyhood, most Bolognese warm up relatively quickly to friendly strangers, especially in the presence of their trusted family members. This slight reserve makes them effective watchdogs, as they will alert their owners to unusual visitors or sounds without being nuisance barkers.

The breed's playful side emerges most strongly with family members. Despite their dignified appearance and calm baseline temperament, Bolognese dogs have a delightful sense of fun and enjoy interactive games, toys, and play sessions with their people. They maintain this playfulness well into their senior years, though their play style is generally gentle rather than rough or boisterous. They particularly enjoy games that engage their intelligence, such as puzzle toys and hide-and-seek activities.

Separation anxiety is a potential concern with this breed due to their intense attachment to their families. Bolognese dogs that are left alone frequently or for extended periods may develop anxiety-related behaviors such as excessive barking, destructive chewing, or house soiling. Crate training, gradual desensitization to alone time, and providing engaging toys can help, but this breed truly thrives in situations where they can spend most of their time with their people. Families who work long hours outside the home should carefully consider whether they can meet this breed's need for companionship.

The Bolognese excels as a family companion and adapts remarkably well to various living situations, provided their need for human companionship is met. These dogs form strong attachments to all family members and do not typically bond with just one person, making them excellent choices for households where multiple people will be involved in the dog's care. Their small size and moderate exercise requirements make them particularly suitable for apartment living, though they are equally happy in larger homes with yards.

With children, the Bolognese can be an excellent companion, though considerations should be made regarding the ages of the children and the size of the dog. Bolognese dogs are generally patient and gentle with kids, especially when raised with them from puppyhood. They enjoy the attention and play that children provide and can become devoted playmates. However, because of their small and somewhat delicate build, they are better suited to families with older children who understand how to handle small dogs appropriately. Very young children may inadvertently injure a Bolognese through rough play or by accidentally stepping on or dropping the dog. Supervision of all interactions between dogs and young children is essential for the safety of both.

The breed's relationship with other pets in the household is generally positive when proper introductions and socialization occur. Bolognese dogs typically get along well with other dogs, particularly if they have been socialized with canines from a young age. Their calm and non-aggressive nature helps prevent conflicts, though some males may display territorial behavior in multi-dog households if not properly managed. With cats and other small pets, most Bolognese do well, as they have a relatively low prey drive and were bred for companionship rather than hunting. Early positive experiences with various species help ensure harmonious multi-pet households.

The Bolognese's adaptability extends to travel and new environments. Many owners find that their Bolognese make excellent travel companions, remaining calm in cars and readily adapting to hotels or visiting friends and family. Their small size makes them easy to transport, and their attachment to their people means they are generally content as long as their family is present. This portability is one of the reasons the breed has historically been so popular with aristocrats and wealthy individuals who moved frequently between residences.

However, potential owners must carefully consider the breed's need for constant companionship. Bolognese dogs are not suited to families where everyone is away at work and school for eight to ten hours daily. They may develop separation anxiety and associated problem behaviors when left alone frequently. Ideal living situations include homes where at least one person is present most of the time, whether through remote work, retirement, or staggered schedules. Some owners successfully keep Bolognese in pairs or groups, as they often enjoy the company of their own breed, though this does not entirely eliminate the need for human interaction.

Daily routines are important for Bolognese dogs, who appreciate predictability in their schedules for meals, walks, and play time. Establishing consistent routines helps these sensitive dogs feel secure and reduces anxiety. While they are adaptable to their owner's lifestyle, they do best when given structure and clear expectations about household rules and boundaries.

Training a Bolognese is generally a rewarding experience due to the breed's intelligence, eagerness to please, and strong bond with their owners. These dogs are quick learners who respond exceptionally well to positive reinforcement training methods that incorporate treats, praise, and play. Harsh corrections or punishment-based training should be avoided, as the sensitive Bolognese may become fearful or shut down when treated harshly. Instead, focus on building a positive association with training through rewards and encouragement.

Basic obedience training should begin as soon as a Bolognese puppy arrives in their new home. Commands such as sit, stay, come, down, and leave it form the foundation of good manners and help establish clear communication between dog and owner. Despite their small size, Bolognese benefit greatly from proper training, as it provides mental stimulation, builds confidence, and prevents the development of small dog syndrome, where untrained small dogs may become demanding, yappy, or difficult to manage. Consistency across all family members is crucial, as Bolognese are clever enough to learn that rules may be different with different people.

Socialization is equally important as obedience training and should start early in puppyhood. Exposing Bolognese puppies to a variety of people, dogs, places, sounds, and experiences during their critical socialization period (roughly 3-16 weeks of age) helps them develop into confident, well-adjusted adults. Take puppies on car rides, introduce them to friendly people of all ages and appearances, arrange supervised play sessions with other vaccinated puppies, and expose them to different environments. The naturally reserved temperament of the Bolognese makes this early socialization particularly important in preventing fearfulness or excessive caution around new experiences.

Housetraining requires patience and consistency with Bolognese dogs, as is true with many small breeds. Their small bladders mean they need frequent opportunities to eliminate, especially as puppies. Establishing a regular schedule for meals and potty breaks, using crate training appropriately, and praising successful outdoor elimination all contribute to successful housetraining. Some owners find that paper training or using indoor potty pads can be helpful, particularly in apartments or during inclement weather, though outdoor housetraining is preferable when possible.

Exercise requirements for the Bolognese are moderate and easily met in most living situations. These are not high-energy dogs that require hours of vigorous activity daily. Instead, they typically thrive with 30 minutes to one hour of exercise per day, which can be divided into multiple shorter sessions. A combination of leisurely walks around the neighborhood and play sessions at home usually suffices. Bolognese enjoy exploring on walks, though they should always be kept on leash in unfenced areas for their safety. Indoor play, whether with toys, hide-and-seek games, or gentle tug-of-war, provides both physical exercise and mental stimulation.

Mental enrichment is as important as physical exercise for this intelligent breed. Puzzle toys, treat-dispensing toys, and games that challenge the dog's problem-solving abilities help keep the Bolognese's mind engaged and prevent boredom. Training sessions themselves serve as mental exercise, and many Bolognese enjoy learning tricks or participating in dog sports adapted to their size and abilities. Despite their aristocratic history, these dogs are quite capable of learning complex behaviors and can excel in activities such as rally obedience, agility (in the heights appropriate for small dogs), and trick training.

One behavior that sometimes emerges in Bolognese and requires management is excessive attention-seeking or velcro dog behavior. While their devotion is endearing, some Bolognese can become overly dependent or demanding of attention. Teaching the dog to settle calmly on a mat or bed while the owner is occupied, gradually increasing tolerance for brief separations, and ensuring the dog has appropriate outlets for their energy helps prevent this from becoming problematic. The goal is maintaining the breed's wonderful companionship while also teaching independence and good manners.

The Bolognese is generally a healthy breed with a respectable lifespan of 12-14 years, and many individuals live even longer with excellent care. The breed's relatively long lifespan compared to some other purebred dogs reflects centuries of breeding primarily for companionship and temperament rather than exaggerated physical features. However, like all breeds, the Bolognese is prone to certain genetic health conditions that potential owners should be aware of and that responsible breeders screen for before breeding.

Luxating patella is one of the most common orthopedic issues in the breed. This condition involves the kneecap (patella) slipping out of its normal position in the groove of the thigh bone. Symptoms include intermittent lameness, a skipping or hopping gait, sudden reluctance to put weight on a leg, and sometimes a popping or clicking sound when the leg is moved. Luxating patellas are graded on a scale from 1 to 4, with grade 1 being mild and grade 4 being severe. Mild cases may not require treatment beyond monitoring, while severe cases can necessitate surgical correction. Maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding activities that place excessive stress on the knees help manage this condition. Regular veterinary care should include patellar examination to catch problems early.

Hip dysplasia, though less common in small breeds than in large dogs, can occur in Bolognese. This condition involves abnormal development of the hip joint, where the ball and socket don't fit together properly, leading to arthritis, pain, and mobility issues over time. Screening for hip dysplasia through veterinary examination and radiographs helps identify affected dogs before breeding. Management includes weight control, appropriate exercise, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and in severe cases, surgical intervention.

Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease is a genetic condition that affects small breed dogs, including the Bolognese. This disease involves degeneration of the head of the femur (thigh bone) due to interrupted blood supply, leading to pain, lameness, and arthritis in the affected hip. It typically appears in young dogs between 4-12 months of age. Symptoms include limping, muscle atrophy in the affected leg, and pain when the hip is manipulated. Treatment usually involves surgical removal of the affected femoral head, after which most dogs recover well and can lead active, pain-free lives. Early diagnosis and treatment provide the best outcomes.

Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and other eye problems can affect the breed. PRA is a group of genetic diseases that cause gradual degeneration of the retina, eventually leading to blindness. Symptoms include night blindness that progresses to complete vision loss. While there is no cure for PRA, most dogs adapt well to vision loss, especially when it occurs gradually. Responsible breeders have their breeding dogs undergo comprehensive eye examinations by board-certified veterinary ophthalmologists to screen for PRA and other inherited eye conditions. Cataracts can also develop in Bolognese, causing cloudiness of the eye lens and potentially impairing vision.

Periodontal disease is a significant concern in small breeds like the Bolognese due to crowded teeth in their small jaws. Plaque and tartar accumulation on teeth leads to gum inflammation, tooth loss, and can allow bacteria to enter the bloodstream, potentially affecting the heart, liver, and kidneys. Daily tooth brushing, dental chews, and professional dental cleanings as recommended by a veterinarian are essential preventive measures. Owners should watch for signs of dental problems including bad breath, red or bleeding gums, reluctance to eat hard food, and pawing at the mouth.

Allergies can affect Bolognese dogs, manifesting as skin problems or digestive issues. Environmental allergies to pollen, mold, dust mites, or other substances may cause itching, scratching, ear infections, and skin lesions. Food allergies or sensitivities can cause similar symptoms plus gastrointestinal upset. Identifying the allergen through veterinary testing and either avoiding the trigger or managing symptoms with medications helps affected dogs live comfortably. Regular veterinary care allows for early detection and treatment of emerging health problems. Annual wellness examinations, blood work as appropriate for the dog's age, vaccinations, and parasite prevention are important components of preventive health care. Screening for genetic conditions before breeding and selecting puppies from health-tested parents helps minimize the risk of inherited diseases.

Regular veterinary check-ups and preventive care are essential for maintaining your Bologneser's health and longevity.

The Bolognese requires substantial grooming commitment due to its long, fluffy white coat. Prospective owners must be prepared to dedicate significant time to coat care or budget for regular professional grooming services. Daily brushing is essential to prevent the formation of mats and tangles in the coat. Using a pin brush or slicker brush, work through the entire coat systematically, paying particular attention to high-friction areas that mat most easily: behind the ears, under the legs, around the collar area, and on the stomach and rear end. The coat's texture means that debris, dirt, and tangles can easily become trapped, making consistent daily grooming non-negotiable for maintaining coat health.

Many pet owners choose to keep their Bolognese in a shorter puppy cut or pet trim, which significantly reduces grooming time while maintaining the breed's characteristic fluffy appearance. In this style, the coat is trimmed to approximately one to two inches all over the body, with slightly longer hair left on the head to preserve the breed's distinctive tousled expression. This shorter coat still requires regular brushing, but daily sessions can be briefer, and professional grooming every six to eight weeks keeps the coat neat. Show dogs and those being presented in full coat require even more extensive grooming to maintain the long, flowing coat seen in the show ring.

Bathing frequency depends on the individual dog's lifestyle and the owner's preferences regarding coat cleanliness. Most Bolognese benefit from bathing every two to four weeks using a gentle dog shampoo appropriate for white coats. Some owners use whitening or brightening shampoos specifically formulated to keep white coats looking pristine and prevent yellowing or staining. After bathing, the coat must be thoroughly dried, as the dense, fluffy texture holds moisture that can lead to skin problems if left damp. A blow dryer on a cool or warm setting, used while brushing, helps dry the coat while preventing tangles from forming.

Facial care is particularly important for the Bolognese due to their prominent eyes and tear production. The area around the eyes should be cleaned daily with a soft, damp cloth or specialized eye wipes to prevent tear staining, which can cause reddish-brown discoloration in the white coat around the eyes. Some Bolognese are prone to excessive tearing, which may indicate allergies, eye irritation, or blocked tear ducts that should be evaluated by a veterinarian. Keeping the hair around the eyes trimmed or tied back helps reduce irritation and makes cleaning easier.

Dental care is crucial for Bolognese, as small breeds are particularly prone to periodontal disease. Daily tooth brushing with dog-specific toothpaste is ideal and helps prevent the buildup of plaque and tartar that can lead to gum disease, tooth loss, and more serious health problems affecting the heart, liver, and kidneys. Owners should use a soft-bristled toothbrush or finger brush and introduce dental care gradually when the dog is young to make it a positive routine. Professional dental cleanings may be necessary periodically, as recommended by a veterinarian.

Nail trimming should be performed regularly, typically every two to four weeks depending on how quickly the nails grow and how much the dog walks on hard surfaces. Overgrown nails can cause discomfort, affect the dog's gait, and potentially lead to injury. Using quality dog nail clippers or a nail grinder, trim just the tip of each nail, being careful to avoid cutting into the quick (the blood vessel inside the nail). For dogs with white nails, the quick is often visible as a pink area, making trimming easier. Regular nail maintenance from puppyhood helps dogs accept the procedure calmly.

Ear care involves regular inspection and cleaning to prevent infections. Check the ears weekly for signs of redness, odor, discharge, or excessive wax buildup. Clean the ears as needed using a veterinarian-recommended ear cleaning solution and cotton balls or gauze, never inserting anything into the ear canal itself. The Bolognese's pendulous ears can trap moisture and debris, making them slightly more prone to ear issues than breeds with upright ears.

If you're looking to adopt a Bologneser, consider contacting these breed-specific rescue organizations:

"Don't Shop... Please Adopt" - There are many wonderful Bolognesers waiting for their forever homes.