Longevity
Life expectancy
With a measured diet, daily activity, good dental hygiene and regular veterinary follow-up, this small dog commonly lives between 12 and 14 years.
Build
A robust breed?
Despite its delicate size, the breed is rather robust. Its low weight and abundant coat do not, however, fully protect it from damp cold, intense heat, falls or rough handling. Preventing overweight is essential to preserve the joints and longevity.
Watch points
What to watch for
Regular monitoring helps to detect early the conditions to which the breed may be predisposed. Any intermittent lameness, eye irritation, weight gain or persistent discomfort warrants a veterinary consultation.
Patellar luxation : Displacement of the kneecap can cause a hopping gait, intermittent lameness and, in marked cases, require surgical management.
Distichiasis : Abnormally implanted eyelashes can irritate the cornea and lead to tearing, pain or eye lesions.
Obesity : An overly rich ration and insufficient activity promote weight gain, which notably increases stress on the joints.
Periodontal disease : As in many small dogs, tartar buildup can cause inflammation, pain and tooth loss without regular oral hygiene.
Climate
Cold and heat tolerance
The Bichon Bolonais is above all an indoor dog. It tolerates heat moderately and withstands cold dampness poorly despite its thick coat. In summer, outings must avoid the hottest hours and fresh water must remain available. In winter, prolonged exposure to the cold must be limited and its coat must be dried well after a walk in the rain.
Weight
Tendency to gain weight
The breed can gain weight quickly if portions and treats are not controlled. It is recommended to weigh the ration, to regularly monitor body condition and to adjust intake to age, sterilization and activity level. Daily walks and short but regular games complete this prevention.
Daily life
Good habits to keep it healthy
- Have the kneecaps and eyes checked during veterinary visits.
- Brush the teeth several times a week with a product for dogs.
- Gently clean around the eyes with a suitable product.
- Keep vaccinations, antiparasitic treatments and the annual check-up up to date.
- Consult promptly in case of limping, eye pain or unusual weight gain.
Vaccination
Bolognese vaccines: vaccination schedule
Which vaccines for a Bolognese? Like all cats, the Bolognese receives essential vaccines from 8 weeks old: Typhus (panleukopenia) and Coryza. The kitten primary vaccination for Bolognese is given in several injections 4 weeks apart, followed by a first booster at 1 year, even if it lives in an apartment. Depending on its lifestyle (outdoor access, multi-cat household, shows, travel), your veterinarian may complete the protocol with vaccines against Feline leukemia (FeLV), Rabies and Chlamydiosis.
| Vaccine | Primary series | First booster | Then | Who for? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Typhus (panleukopenia)Core Feline panleukopenia (cat parvovirus) | 8 weeks · 12 weeks · 3 months | 1 year | every year | All pets |
CoryzaCore Feline herpesvirus and calicivirus | 8 weeks · 12 weeks · 3 months | 1 year | every year | All pets |
Feline leukemia (FeLV)Lifestyle-based Feline leukemia virus | 8 weeks · 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Outdoor cats, cats living in a group or in a cattery |
RabiesLifestyle-based Rabies | 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Mandatory for travel abroad, cat shows and most boarding kennels |
ChlamydiosisLifestyle-based Chlamydia felis (contagious conjunctivitis) | 8 weeks · 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Cats living in groups, catteries, show cats |
Adult Bolognese vaccine boosters are annual for cat flu and leukemia if it goes outdoors; for panleukopenia, a booster every three years is often sufficient after the first booster. Your veterinarian will adjust the schedule to your cat’s lifestyle.
Which boosters for your Bolognese?
Enter your companion’s age: we list the vaccines to do now and the next boosters.
Adopting well
Adopting a healthy Bolognese
Before breeding, a patella examination and an ophthalmological check-up are recommended. Routine follow-up includes at minimum an annual veterinary check-up, monitoring of weight, dentition, eyes, ears and skin. A dental scaling may be necessary depending on the oral and dental condition.
This information is provided for guidance only and does not replace a veterinarian’s advice. If you have any concerns about your pet’s health, consult a professional.
