Bolognese
2.5-4 kg
Male: 27-30 cm, Female: 25-28 cm
12-14 years
Italy
About the Bolognese
The Bolognese is a member of the Bichon family, distinguished by its serene and remarkably devoted nature. Originating from the city of Bologna, Italy, this ancient breed was a favored gift among Renaissance nobility. Unlike its more high-energy cousins, the Bolognese is known for a more contemplative and calm demeanor, often forming an intense bond with its primary owner. Physically, they are characterized by their 'flocky' white coat which, combined with their square-set build and dark, expressive eyes, gives them an elegant yet sturdy appearance. Despite their delicate look, they are hardy little dogs that excel in companionship. They are highly intelligent and observant, often mirroring the energy levels of their household. While they are reserved with strangers, they are never aggressive, preferring to stay close to their humans. Their single-layered, non-shedding coat makes them a popular choice for those with mild allergies, though the maintenance of that coat requires a dedicated grooming routine to keep the 'cloud-like' texture healthy and free of mats.
Breed Standard
Key characteristics from the breed standard
The Bolognese presents a distinctive silhouette in the ring, featuring a square build where the length of the body equals the height at the withers. The coat is a defining feature: it must be pure white, long, and 'flocky,' never forming ringlets or lying flat. Their movement is free and energetic, with a carry of the head that denotes nobility.
In Australia
Reliable Australian historical records for this breed’s introduction were not located.
Bred For
Companion and lap dog for Italian nobility
Temperament
Serious, devoted, docile, and intelligent with a serene disposition.
Health Conditions Reported in the Breed
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Exercise Needs
Moderate daily activity: 30 minutes of walking combined with indoor play and mental stimulation.
Grooming Needs
High; requires daily brushing to prevent matting and professional grooming every 6-8 weeks.
Living Suitability
Excellent for apartment living; thrives in small spaces as long as they have proximity to their owners.
Good with Kids
Good with older, respectful children; may be overwhelmed by very young or boisterous toddlers.
Good with Other Pets
Generally good with other dogs and cats, especially if socialized early.
Trainability
Highly intelligent and eager to please, though they can be sensitive to harsh corrections.
Coat & Colours
Long, flocky hair (not ringlets) that is soft and stands away from the body; single-coated.. Pure white, without any markings or shades of white.
Exercise needs vary by age, fitness, health, weather and individual temperament. Consult your veterinarian for an exercise plan appropriate for your dog.
Things to Consider
Every breed has its quirks — here's what to know
The Bolognese is more likely to develop separation anxiety due to their intense devotion; they thrive best in homes where they aren't left alone for long periods. Like many toy breeds, they are predisposed to dental disease and overcrowded teeth, so daily teeth brushing or dental-specific raw bones are highly recommended to avoid costly vet visits. Their white coat is prone to tear staining, which can often be managed through a high-quality fresh diet and regular face cleaning. While they shed minimally, their 'flocky' hair acts like a magnet for debris and mats easily, requiring a significant commitment to grooming. Owners should also be aware that they are predisposed to patellar luxation (slipping kneecaps); maintaining a lean weight through a precise raw diet like Majestik is crucial to reducing joint stress. Furthermore, some Bolognese can be more likely to develop digestive sensitivities or skin irritations on standard commercial kibbles—this doesn't mean every dog will, but many thrive significantly better on a grain-free, fresh-food protocol that avoids artificial additives.
Feeding Guide for Your Bolognese
Healthy Weight
2.5-4 kg
Daily Feeding Amount (general starting estimate)
60-120 grams
For an adult Bolognese, a fresh or raw diet should be fed at approximately 2-3% of their ideal body weight daily. Given their small size, meals should be divided into two portions to maintain stable blood sugar levels. A 3 kg dog requires roughly 60g to 90g of fresh food per day.
Feeding quantities are general starting estimates only. Individual needs vary with body condition, weight trends, age, health and activity. Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition — consult a veterinarian for individualised dietary guidance.
Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition. Seek veterinary or qualified canine nutrition guidance for individualised dietary advice. Raw feeding, specific proteins or fresh foods should not be presented as preventing, treating or managing breed health conditions without veterinary diagnosis and supervision.
Majestik's Recommended Feeding Approach
Breed Diet Notes
Highly digestible, nutrient-dense fresh or raw diet rich in high-quality proteins and Omega-3 fatty acids for skin and coat health.
A balanced raw diet for a Bolognese should focus on lean Australian proteins like Kangaroo and Beef to maintain a healthy weight. Incorporating small amounts of pureed green leafy vegetables and oily fish like sardines provides essential antioxidants and skin-supporting oils. Avoid high-filler diets which can lead to tear staining.
These are general breed-level notes only. The appropriate food and serving amount depend on the individual dog's age, health, body condition, activity and tolerance.
Majestik Recommendation
Majestik BARF meals follow our practical 70/10/10/10 approach: approximately 70% quality meat and protein ingredients, 10% edible bone, 10% vegetables and 10% offal. This gives customers a convenient fresh-food option without needing to source and portion every ingredient themselves.
Our Beef, Lamb and Roo BARF meals provide convenient fresh-food options, with suitable proteins chosen or rotated according to the individual dog.
Suitable for different needs
- Healthy adult: Majestik adult Beef, Lamb or Roo BARF meal.
- Puppy: Majestik Premium Puppy.
- Senior: Majestik Senior Blend.
- Working or highly active dog: Suitable Majestik adult meal with quantity adjusted to workload and body condition.
- Protein trial: One Majestik protein at a time.
Recommended Majestik BARF Meals
This is a practical starting recommendation for healthy dogs. Individual needs vary with age, health, body condition and activity.
Bolognese Feeding Calculator
Personalised raw and cooked feeding recommendations based on your dog's profile
Ideal — Ribs palpable without excess fat. Visible waist. Abdominal tuck present.
Have a question about your Bolognese? Dog Health AI
Why Majestik?
Fresh, raw pet food made with integrity in South Australia
Australian Made
Made in Two Wells, South Australia
Freshly Prepared
Real meat, organs, bone & wholefood ingredients
No Fillers
No cheap fillers or artificial preservatives
Family Owned
Locally owned and operated
Local Delivery
Delivery across Adelaide & selected areas
Secure Checkout
Secure payment via Shopify checkout
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Breed Records & Facts
Average Litter Size
3-5 puppies
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References & Sources
Breed information verified against recognised breed authorities and veterinary evidence.