Energy Level
Moderate
Weight
4–7 kg
Height Range
23–30 cm
Life Span
12–14 years
A moderately active breed that needs 45-60 minutes of daily exercise to stay healthy.
About the Bolognese
The Bolognese is a small and playful breed of dog that was originally bred in Italy as a companion dog. They are intelligent, affectionate, and loyal, and make excellent family pets.
Breed Characteristics
Facts about the Bolognese
Small body, big personality — 20–30 min walk plus indoor play covers toy breeds without overexertion.
AKC
Toy breeds need socialization early or they can become reactive to larger dogs. Puppy classes help.
VCA
Dental disease is the #1 toy-breed health issue — tooth-cleaning routine from puppy age is essential.
VCA
Don’t skip training thinking they’re “too small” — toy breeds need boundaries as much as any dog.
The Kennel Club UK
Many toy breeds have ancient companion roots — Pekingese were Chinese imperial dogs for over 2000 years.
AKC
Exercise by Age
Puppy (under 1 year)
Limit exercise to 5 minutes per month of age, twice daily. Avoid high-impact activities to protect growing joints.
Adult (1-11 years)
Full daily goal applies. Mix walks with play, training and mental stimulation.
Senior (11+ years)
Reduce intensity by 20-30%. Shorter, more frequent walks. Watch for signs of fatigue or joint stiffness.
Similar Breeds
Frequently asked questions
How much exercise does a Bolognese need?
A Bolognese needs about 8,000 steps a day. A moderately active breed that needs 45-60 minutes of daily exercise to stay healthy.
How big does a Bolognese get?
Adult Bologneses typically weigh 4–7 kg and stand 23–30 cm at the shoulder.
How long do Bologneses live?
A Bolognese usually lives 12–14 years.
Calculate your Bolognese's exact daily goal
Pawmi uses peer-reviewed breed science to create a personalized plan based on your dog's breed, age, weight and health conditions.
Calculate Goal