The Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka, plural Bolonki, is a rare dog breed developed while Russia was under Soviet control. It is descended from ancient lap dog breeds that almost went extinct in the early 1950s.
There are many interesting facts about this small, loveable Russian dog breed. Read on to learn more about its origins and characteristics.
1. Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonki Almost Went Extinct
After World War II, many small dog breeds in Soviet Russia were on their way to extinction. Although there were exhibitions displayed in Leningrad during Soviet rule, the quality of the dogs and the number of decorative breeds declined.
So, fanciers got together to improve the quality of dogs in Soviet Russia. In the 1950s, dog enthusiasts mated Trifon, a white dog from Hungary, and Zhuzhu, a coffee-colored dog purchased from a circus in Leningrad, to produce a black lapdog named Tin Tin.
Further breeding included mixing in Maltese, Bolognese, and Shih Tzu. By the end of the 1950s, breeders were able to consistently create a uniform dog that achieved breed group status. Today, the Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka is considered a part of the Bichon family.
2. Bolonka Belong to the AKC Miscellaneous Class
There was little interest in Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonki in the United States until the year 2000. Breed enthusiast Candace Mogavero became invested in this rare Russian lap dog. She imported a female and interest in this breed began to rise. In 2001, another breeder named Patricia McRae joined Mogavero and imported more Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonki to the states.
They soon started a breed club. McRae and Mogavero continued to breed and make these dogs more apparent to the public. In 2015, the American Kennel Club (AKC) accepted the breed, and by 2023, it was placed into the AKC Miscellaneous Class.
It is now actively shown on the Rare Breed Circuit and recognized by the American Rare Breed Association.
3. These Small Dogs Have a Unique Appearance
The Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka has a dense, thick outer coat, soft to the touch and adorned with large curls. Like Schnauzers, these dogs have beards and mustaches. People often tie their facial hair with bows to keep it from getting in their eyes.
As noted, this breed is small, standing at about 11 inches. They only weigh about six to nine pounds, sporting dark brown or hazel round eyes. Most Bolonki are traditionally black, but they come in 17 colors and seven markings.
4. Bolonki Are Great Family Pets
This little dog is well-known for its affectionate nature. This means, if you have children or other pets, these apartment-dwelling dogs make a great choice. Compared to other small dogs, Bolonki don’t bark much, and they have low mental stimulation needs, meaning they’re content to entertain themselves. Still, to strengthen your bond, you should take them on walks once or twice a day. If it’s too hot outdoors, play it safe and remain inside; these dogs can overheat easily!
Bolonki are incredibly smart dogs. In fact, they’re known to be expert mimics! In the dog sporting world, Bolonka excel at obedience trials, tracking, and agility courses.
5, Bolonki Are Predisposed to Disc Herniation
In general, Bolonki are a healthy dog breed. Because they were so selectively bred by reputable breeders, they generally don’t experience anything beyond common health problems. Still, it’s important to get Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonki puppies from ethical breeders who have the parents’ and pups’ health screened. You should also be sure to take your dog to regular vet visits and to get the recommended vaccinations to keep your dog healthy.
In addition to this general advice, Bolonki owners should be vigilant for eye conditions, as the thick hair that grows over their eyes can cause corneal abrasions. It’s one reason owners often keep the hair in a top knot. If you want to have one of these dogs, also look out for luxating patella. This can cause pain, discomfort, and problems walking.
Another condition that Bolonki may be slightly predisposed to is chondrodystrophy (CDDY), a skeletal disorder that shows up as shortening limbs. This leaves your dog more prone to disc herniation.
6. They May Become Obese Without Proper Care
As with all dogs, especially dogs who spend most of their time indoors, Bolonki are prone to obesity if they are not fed high-quality dog food that is appropriate to their life stage. Avoid over-feeding by positioning out their food. They should consume no more than 10% of their daily calories in treats. Obesity can also cause additional issues with joints and may lead to an increase in the risk of injury. It can also increase the risk of heart issues.
Conclusion: These Dogs Make Great Companions
Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka dogs are a breed developed during a time when show dogs were declining. This lap dog is a small, friendly companion who makes a great pet for apartments and city living. They are easy to train and have agreeable personalities. In recent years, their popularity has started to grow in the United States, and there is hope that the Bolonki will soon become a household name.
