Official ICCF Breed Description
Brief Historical Overview
The Bolognese is an ancient decorative breed originating from Italy, where it was highly valued during the Renaissance. These small, pure white dogs were named after the city of Bologna, where they became especially popular among nobles and aristocrats. The Bolognese was mentioned in letters and chronicles of the time as a refined companion to royalty and ladies of high society. Frequently depicted in paintings, it symbolized elegance and luxury. Over the centuries, the breed spread throughout Europe, preserving its refined appearance and affectionate, cheerful temperament. Today, the Bolognese remains a rare and treasured companion dog.
General Appearance
The Bolognese is a small, square-built dog of balanced proportions, with a sturdy yet delicate frame. Its defining feature is its long, dense, fluffy white coat, forming a soft, cloud-like silhouette. The head is proportional to the body, the eyes are large, dark, and expressive, radiating intelligence and friendliness. The ears are medium-sized, pendulous, and covered with long, silky hair. The tail is gracefully curved over the back. Movement is light, elegant, and expressive, giving an overall impression of refinement, harmony, and vitality.
Important Proportions
The Bolognese is nearly square in outline: the body length from the shoulder to the base of the tail is approximately equal to the height at the withers. The head is harmonious with the body; the skull is slightly rounded, and the muzzle, about one-third of the head’s length, is straight and proportionate. The neck is of medium length, elegant, and smoothly joins the shoulders. The back is straight and strong; the loin is short, and the croup slightly rounded. The chest is deep and broad enough to reach the elbows, with moderately rounded ribs. The limbs are straight and parallel, providing stability and easy movement. The tail is of medium length, set high, arched, and gracefully carried over the back, completing the elegant outline of the breed.
Temperament and Character
The Bolognese is calm, affectionate, and well-balanced. A true companion dog, it is deeply devoted to its owner and thrives on human interaction. Intelligent and gentle, it makes an excellent choice for families, including children and the elderly. The breed is non-aggressive, friendly toward other pets, and naturally cheerful. Despite its decorative appearance, it is lively and playful but can remain composed and relaxed at home. Its loyalty, intelligence, and sociable temperament make it an ideal pet for urban and family life.
Head
The head is proportionate to the body, with a slightly rounded skull and a smooth stop. The forehead is moderately broad, and the cheekbones are not prominent. The muzzle is straight, of medium length, and well-balanced with the skull. The overall head shape conveys refinement and softness.
Muzzle (Foreface)
The muzzle is straight and of medium length, neither pointed nor shortened. The nose is black, round, with open nostrils. The lips are fine, dry, and tight-fitting, without folds. The jaws are strong, with a scissor bite. The chin is neat and not prominent.
Eyes
The eyes are large, round, and set straight, not protruding. The color is dark and rich, giving a lively and friendly expression. Eyelids are tight with black rims, emphasizing the intelligent and gentle look typical of the breed.
Ears
The ears are medium-sized, set high, hanging close to the cheeks. They are triangular with rounded tips, covered in long, silky hair. Their movement enhances the expression and softness of the dog’s appearance.
Neck
The neck is of medium length, elegant and well-arched, harmoniously connecting the head and body. The skin is tight, with no dewlap. Its graceful curvature adds to the breed’s noble bearing.
Body
The body is compact and square, with a sturdy build and harmonious lines. The back is straight and firm, the loin short and muscular, the croup slightly rounded. The chest is deep, with well-sprung ribs. The abdomen is slightly tucked up, emphasizing the dog’s elegance.
Tail
The tail is set high, of medium length, covered with long, dense hair. It is carried arched over the back in motion, forming a graceful curve that complements the overall outline.
Forequarters
Forelegs are straight, parallel, with fine but solid bone. Shoulders are moderately sloping and close to the body. Elbows are directed straight back, without deviation. Pasterns are short and resilient. Feet are small, round, and compact, with firm pads and dark nails.
Hindquarters
Hind legs are strong and muscular, with well-defined angles. Thighs are broad and powerful; lower thighs are medium length and dry. Hocks are firm, well-angulated, and placed low. Feet are compact and rounded. The hindquarters provide a lively push and balanced movement.
Gait and Movement
Movement is light, free, and smooth, with even rhythm and balance. The forelegs move straight forward, the hindlegs provide a strong push. The gait is elegant, expressive, and energetic, reflecting the dog’s cheerful nature.
Coat
The coat is long, dense, soft, and fluffy, evenly covering the body. The hair forms soft curls or waves, creating a cloud-like texture. The undercoat is dense, providing volume and protection. The coat should never be straight or coarse.
Color
The only accepted color is pure, solid white. Slight cream or apricot shading on the ears or muzzle of puppies may occur but should fade with maturity. Any spots or deviations from solid white are considered faults.
Size
The Bolognese is a miniature, square-built dog. Height at the withers ranges from 25 to 30 cm; weight from 2.5 to 4 kg. Balance and harmony of proportions are more important than exact size.
Faults
Minor faults include deviations that do not affect health but reduce breed type. These include an overly long or short body, weak bone, shallow chest, disproportionate head, or incorrect pigmentation of the nose or eyelids. Straight, sparse, or harsh coat, incorrect tail carriage, or pale eyes are also considered faults. Behavioral issues such as excessive timidity or excitability are undesirable.
Disqualifications
Serious defects include deviations that disqualify the dog from breeding or shows: height or weight outside the standard; deformities of body or limbs; incorrect bite, missing teeth, light or pink nose, lack of pigmentation on eyelids or lips; blue, yellow, or mismatched eyes; colored spots; completely straight or coarse coat; docked tail or ears; extreme aggression or fearfulness; congenital or hereditary defects affecting health.
Important Notes
The Bolognese is a companion breed whose essence lies in its attachment to humans and its affectionate temperament. Particular attention is paid to the pure white coat, curled texture, and square format. Cropping of tail or ears is forbidden. Breeders must preserve the breed’s genetic health and avoid excessive inbreeding. Dogs must be balanced, friendly, and free of aggression or timidity. Participation in ICCF exhibitions and breeding requires official ICCF documents verifying pedigree and conformity to the standard.
Conclusion
The Bolognese is a refined decorative breed with a noble history, combining a pure white coat, balanced proportions, and a loving temperament. In the ICCF system, evaluation follows strict standards of structure, movement, and character. Only dogs with official ICCF documentation may enter breeding or shows. These measures preserve the breed’s purity, health, and elegance — ensuring that the Bolognese remains a timeless symbol of grace and companionship.
