Bolognese
The Bolognese is described by the AKC as playful, easy-going, devoted, a member of the Miscellaneous Class, originally from Italy.
Last updated: October 2026 · 5 sources · see sources
| Height | 10-12 inches [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 6-10 pounds [1] |
| Life expectancy | 12–14+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Playful / Easy-Going / Devoted [1] |
| AKC group | Miscellaneous Class [1] |
| Origin | Italy [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 203 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
Bolos would make great apartment dogs, provided they would still have a moderate exercise schedule. As a calm, easygoing dog, they would do well as companions for retirees and seniors. Options for exercise could include play time in the backyard, preferably fenced, or taken for walks. [1]
Grooming
The Bolognese has an all-white coat that is soft and fluffy like the texture of cotton. He is also 'non-shedding,' so low to mild allergy sufferers should not be greatly affected. Bolognese coats are unshaped and untrimmed except for around their eyes for sanitary reasons. [1]
Health issues to budget for
The majority of Bolognese are healthy dogs, and a responsible breeder will screen breeding stock for health conditions such as luxating patellas (compared to "trick knee" in humans) and eye anomalies. Good breeders utilize health screening and genetic testing to reduce the likelihood of disease in their puppies. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: Patella Evaluation, PRA/PRCD, Caer Eye Examination. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a small dog (median $508) | $273 – $1,110 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, small dog | $352 – $1,258 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, small dog | $435 – $1,484 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- It ranked No. 203 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list. [2]
- Its nickname is the “Bolo.” [1]
- The AKC lists Italy as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 3 recommended health screenings for breeding dogs, such as Patella Evaluation, PRA/PRCD. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ Families with young children (AKC good-with-kids rating 5/5)
- ✅ Calmer households (AKC energy 1/5)
- ✅ First-time trainers who want an eager learner (AKC trainability 5/5)
- ✅ People who want less dog hair at home (AKC shedding 1/5)
- ✅ Multi-dog homes (AKC good-with-other-dogs 5/5)
Common questions
How long do Bologneses live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 12-14 years.
How big does a Bolognese get?
AKC breed information lists height 10-12 inches and weight 6-10 pounds.
How much are vet bills for a Bolognese?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For small dogs like the Bolognese, a typical vet bill runs $273 – $1,110 (median $508). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.