Understanding the health and nature of your Bolognese

Quick answer

The Bolognese is a devoted and intelligent companion known for its calm temperament and affectionate nature. While generally robust, owners should be aware of specific health considerations, including the potential for joint issues, dental disease, and certain eye conditions. By maintaining a lean body condition, prioritizing oral hygiene, and scheduling regular veterinary check-ups, you can ensure your dog remains comfortable and healthy throughout its life.

Patellar Luxation

Patellar luxation occurs when the kneecap moves out of its normal position. This is a recognised tendency in the breed. At home, you might notice your dog suddenly skipping steps, holding a back leg up for a few seconds, or displaying an uneven gait while walking. Some owners report a clicking sound when the dog moves.

When you visit the clinic, your vet will perform a physical examination to manually test the stability of the kneecap. If the condition is suspected, the vet will grade the severity of the luxation to determine if management can be handled through weight control and exercise modification or if surgical intervention is necessary. The most common mistake owners make is ignoring a mild limp, which can lead to chronic inflammation or secondary joint damage over time.

Dental Problems

Dental disease is a common concern for the Bolognese. This is well recognised in the breed. You may first notice persistent bad breath, a reluctance to chew hard toys, or visible tartar buildup along the gum line. In more advanced stages, you might see red, swollen, or bleeding gums.

Your vet will perform an oral examination during your routine wellness visits. If significant plaque or tartar is present, they may recommend a professional dental cleaning under anesthesia to remove buildup below the gum line and assess the health of the tooth roots. Relying solely on treats or chew toys to clean teeth is a common mistake that often fails to prevent deep-seated periodontal issues. Consistent brushing at home is the gold standard for prevention.

Eye Conditions

Cataracts are a recognised tendency in the breed. A cataract involves the clouding of the lens inside the eye, which can eventually impact vision. At home, you might notice your dog bumping into furniture, hesitating in dim light, or showing cloudiness in the center of the eye.

During a standard physical, your vet will use a specialized light to examine the structures of the eye. If a cataract is identified, they may refer you to a veterinary ophthalmologist for a detailed assessment of the eye's internal health. It is important to note that how this passes down is not settled, making regular screening vital. A common mistake is assuming that all cloudiness in an older dog's eye is a normal part of aging, which can lead to missing conditions that cause discomfort or pain.

Daily Care and Enrichment

Beyond specific health conditions, the Bolognese thrives on human connection. They are calm and affectionate, making them wonderful companions for seniors or families with older children. Because they are intelligent, they respond well to training, but they do best with short, consistent sessions rather than long, repetitive drills.

While they are reserved with strangers, they are deeply devoted to their families. To keep them at their best, focus on mental enrichment and physical maintenance. Keeping their body condition lean is essential for their long-term comfort, especially given their tendency toward joint issues. Avoid the mistake of overfeeding, as even a small amount of excess weight can significantly impact their quality of life.