COUNTRY: Italy
Bologna is a city of northern Italy, well known for centuries as a center of art and learning. The existence of the Bolognese dog has been recorded since the year 1200, most probably descended from bichon types brought in from southern Italy and Malta. By the Renaissance, the Bolognese had become a favorite of the nobility. Both the Gonzagas and the Medicis bred them and the Duke d'Este gave a pair to King Phillip II of Spain.
Supposedly, he indicated that he had never received a better gift. The Bolognese dog breed was also a favorite with La Pompadour, Catherine of Russia, and the ladies-in-waiting of many European courts. Today it is less known, in fact, almost rare in its homeland. Nevertheless, dedicated breeders promote this ancient and admired dog, and there have been recent imports into the United States.
The Bolognese dog is a typical small bichon dog, intelligent, happy, faithful and companionable. While not hyperactive or high-strung, they are vivacious and full of fun. Breeders report that even ten-year-olds still play like puppies. The Bolognese dogs are quite fearless and love people.
Bred as companions, Bolognese dogs need the attention and presence of their family. In fact, they become so attached to their owners they are like a shadow, following their idols from room to room. "To have a Bolognese in the house is to have someone to love and adore."
The cottony white coat requires daily brushing to keep it free of tangles. But apart from coat care, they are healthy, quiet dogs that make superb companions. They have acute hearing and eyesight, taking notice of anything new or unusual and notify their owners. So, while not barkers, they can be true watchdogs.
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