Bolonka Zwetna Dog Breed

The Bolonka Zwetna is a member of the Toy group of breeds, and were developed in Russia to be low-maintenance, small-sized companions. Bolonkas are best suited for people wanting a small, hypoallergenic pet that doesn't require much space. Here are some pros and cons of this rare breed:

PROS:

• Extremely affectionate
• Very low-maintenance
• Easily trained
• Playful and personable
• Lower barking tendency than other toy breeds
• Great with children
• Fairly good health
• Hypoallergenic
• Low exercise requirements
• Comfortable in any living situation
• Socializes very well with other pets
• Relatively long lifespan (12-15 years)

CONS:

• May suffer separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods
• Poor watchdog abilities
• Tendency for developing Small Dog Syndrome
• Due to small size, can be injured easily
• Can be difficult to house-train
• Rare, and thus difficult to obtain

The Bolonka Zwetna is considered a toy-sized dog. They stand about 9.5 to 10.5 inches at the shoulders and weigh in anywhere from 4 to 12 pounds.

Members of this breed are an absolute joy to be around and fit into almost every household. The only owners looking for a small dog that should possibly look elsewhere are those in need of a guard dog or those looking for a very sporty dog. Families and single owners, whether young or elderly, will appreciate this breed's sweet, affectionate and gentle nature. They are calm and quiet, an ideal indoor dog, yet they are playful when appropriate. They are so friendly they even get along with any stranger both human and animal.

This is a low maintenance breed in every aspect. Grooming is fairly simple for the Bolonka's hypoallergenic coat. Other than regular brushing to keep the long, wavy coat free of mats and tangles, little more is required. Although they are medium energy dogs, their small size allows these needs to be met with short daily walks as well as indoor/outdoor playtime. Training will not be too difficult as this is a sweet, sensitive and gentle breed that are known for holding their own in the show ring. However, every dog needs consistent and firm training.

Ancestors of the modern Bolonka (Bichon Frise dogs) were brought from France to Russia as early as the early 1700s. They were given as gifts to Russian nobility during this time and more specimens would make their way over later with the French army under Napoleon. During the subsequent centuries very few toy dogs would exist in Russia due to economic climate and the general utilitarian attitude of the Soviet era. The scarcity of resources to wash a pet caused breeders to select for certain traits in the Bolonka such as a dark, silky coat that would not show dirt as easily as well as a soil-repellent undercoat. Like many other breeds they were considered nearly extinct until the fall of the Iron Curtain and after the Soviet regime interest was revived in non-working, non-sporting dogs. Their small size was of particular interest as the desire for companion dogs grew but apartment living was common due to limited housing. It is believed the modern Bolonka is a mix of Lhasa-Apso, Toy Poodle, Shi-Tzu, French Bolognese and several other small breeds. Russian, Czech, Swedish, Slovak, Luxembourg Kennel Clubs recognize this breed; the North American Kennel Club and the American Rare Breed Association also allow them to be shown. The Bolonka Zwetna was added to the Foundation Stock Service as of 2015.

The Bolonka Zwetna is heavier boned than many other toy dogs; it is well balanced but slightly longer than tall. The topcoat of the breed is comprised of long, shiny, wavy hair (not fur) that can for large curls and characteristically comes in any color except pure white. The undercoat is dense and soil repellent. The head is broad and round but with a leaner muzzle that tapers into a black nose; Bolonka Zwetnas also have a noticeable beard and moustache. Members of this breed have round eyes that are dark brown, hazel, or even green and display a sweet yet lively expression. The medium sized, high-set ears are carried folded. The tail curves over the back and the tip of the tail actually touches the back and happily swished from side to side when the dog is in movement.

The toy sized Bolonka Zwetna has very little variation within the breed, either in physical structure or in coat type. In regards to size, there is a bit of variety: some breeders have used selective breeding methods to develop the extremely rare Teacup Bolonka Zwetna, which can be as tiny as five inches in height and two pounds in weight.

These dogs were bred specifically to be lapdogs and are very sensitive towards and oriented to people. They are playful, affectionate and charming, making them the perfect "cutesy" little indoor dog to entertain your guests. This is definitely a breed that will sit on the couch with you if not in your lap. Although they are not overly needy they are companion dogs that do not do well if left alone for long periods of time without at least another pet around. While many find the idea of a lapdog appealing, if you are away from home most of the day, the Bolonka is not for you.

Training this breed should not be very difficult. They are notable contenders in the show ring and will excel in obedience training if the owner is firm and consistent. Many people tend to think of small dogs as babies and, therefore, do not establish themselves as the pack leader. This can lead to small dog syndrome so owners should always remember to treat a pet as a pet and understand that they have animal instincts.

Due to the rarity of this breed in the United States not much information exists in regards to typical health problems. Potential owners considering this breed might look to closely related types such as the Bichon Frise. Owners should read up on small dog problems such as eye, joint and autoimmune diseases. Members of this breed typically live 12-15 years.