The Bolognese is a breed of dog that is considered to be a great companion dog since they like spending time with their families. However, both bolognese puppies and adult bolognese dogs also enjoy getting what they want and can be pretty smart about it, so you should exercise caution since you can find yourself being misled by a furball that weighs 9 pounds.
Bolognese, especially bichon bolognese, is an excellent companion dog due to their gentle nature and boundless love. Despite their small size, they are healthy dogs compared to other dogs, and they have a prominent personality and will adjust well to living in an apartment environment.
These young dogs do not take kindly to being abandoned for extended periods of time throughout the day; otherwise, they suffer from separation anxiety. They will follow you wherever you go rather than going elsewhere on their own.
But even though these puppies adore their human companions, they may be somewhat defiant when it comes to being trained. When training bolognese breed as a family pet, use a lot of positive reinforcement and try to avoid using any harsh corrections. If you do, you’ll have an affectionate, well-behaved family member who won’t leave your side if you do this.
But how much precisely does a bolognese dog cost? Have you ever thought about getting bolognese puppies?
The price of one of these pets can range anywhere from $1,200 to $2,000 based on various criteria, including the breeder’s reputation, the animal’s age, and overall health. The price of a champion puppy can go anywhere from $4,000 to more, depending on how unique they are.
The price of these dogs has gone up proportionally to reflect the increasing demand that there is for them. The typically robust health of these canines means that they do not need considerable veterinary care, which results in cost savings. However, they must engage in substantial physical exercise and mental stimulation.
It would help if you prioritized learning the average price tag associated with purchasing a dog of this breed. The price guide that may be found in the next section should be helpful if you are attempting to determine how much your Bolognese is worth.
How Much Does a Bolognese Puppy Cost?
The following factors affect the price of Bolognese puppy:
Age
The price of a Bolognese puppy is often much more than that of an adult Bolognese. Puppies between two to four months old are much sought after. Thus young, they are prone to develop strong bonds with their new families.
Gender
A higher price tag is sometimes placed on Bolognese males since they require less attention than girls.
Breeder’s reputation
The breeder’s reputation may also affect the price of a future pet. A reputable breeder is more likely to produce a healthy dog.
Puppies from reputable breeders typically have superior genes since both parents are physically active and in good condition. Importantly, reputable breeders provide health warranties and may even accept the return of a puppy if it develops a medical condition during the first year of ownership.
Bloodlines and Pedigree
The price of a purebred puppy is much more than that of a mixed-breed one. The pup’s pedigree also plays a role in the asking price. The parent dogs may have even won awards themselves in dog shows. Puppies from show-winning parents fetch roughly twice as much as those from non-winning parents.
Bolognese Adoption
You may also adopt a Bolognese from a rescue shelter, although you’ll unlikely find one there. This option will save you much money compared to buying from a respected breeder.
It’s important to remember that even while adopting a dog may seem like the most economical choice, you may pay a lot more in vet bills and other maintenance costs for a rescue animal.
Some rescued dogs may be fearful or aggressive because of their traumatic experiences. This is true even more so for young puppies. Some of the dogs in the shelter may have caught diseases from worse dogs there. Any additional care these dogs may need will cost you, so plan accordingly.
| The minimum price of a Bolognese puppy | $1200 |
| Maximum price of a Bolognese puppy | $2000 |
| Price range | $1200-$2000 |
| The average price of a Bolognese puppy | $1600 |
Cost of Basic Supplies for a Bolognese
Before picking up your new puppy from the breeder, stock up on puppy essentials; this will substantially facilitate you and your friend’s transition.
Food and water dishes
Bolognese is toy terrier dogs with a petite stature. Any standard stainless steel serving bowls or water dispensers would do to accomplish this. A sturdy, substantial, skid-proof, non-slip dog bowl and a mat to catch spillage may be purchased for $14 to $20.
Grooming Stuff
A Bolognese’s short, stiff coat requires less maintenance to remain presentable. You only need a gentle bristle brush to care for this breed’s coat properly. A high-quality brush may usually be obtained for around $10-$15.
You should also consider getting an anti-tick powder and an odor-neutralizing spray. You may get them at a price tag of $8 to $20.
If you want to bathe your Bolognese, you’ll also need to buy a shampoo and conditioner set. Before using, you should check the labels to ensure that these shampoos kill ticks and fleas.
Anti-flea, two-in-one shampoos are available for around $10–$20 and combine the benefits of shampoo and conditioner to leave hair clean and silky.
Last but not least, you’ll need a nail cutter to ensure your Bolognese doesn’t hurt anybody when it pounces for laughs. You can get one at around about $10 to $20.
Crate or bed
A dog bed is a need for individuals who don’t want their pet to track dirt and muck onto the couch and bed. Given their little stature, Bolognese needs only a modestly sized bed in which to sleep well. A tiny dog bed will run you anywhere from $20 to $50, depending on the manufacturer. Compared to standard mattresses, which cost between $80 and $120, memory foam and high-end fur-covered mattresses may cost upwards of $90.
Most crates and kennels should be able to fit a Bolognese, as they are relatively tiny dogs. If you must take your dog with you on the road, a crate is a significant investment to ensure their safety and comfort.
Moreover, crate training is crucial to your dog’s disciplined growth; buying a cage is a smart choice here. The price of a cage for a small dog might range from $80 to $150. If you want your dog to feel at ease when confined in the crate, you should ensure it is toasty and soft.
A detailed breakdown of these costs is provided below:
| Item | Average cost |
| Food and Water Bowl | $17 to $20 |
| Harness and Leash | $35 |
| Training tools – poop bags, disinfectants, odor removals, potty pads/dog training pads | $50 |
| Grooming Tools – shampoo, brush, toothbrush and paste, nail clippers, wipes | $40 to $100 |
| Bed and Crate | $125 to 200 |
| Toys – chew toys, teething toys, outdoor toys | $50 |
Dog Training Costs for a Bolognese
Early socialization and training are vital to prevent your Bolognese from having violent tendencies.
Individual classes on sociability, bathroom training, and crate education cost $300–$500, whereas group seminars on the same subjects cost only $100.
Alternatively, despite the considerably higher cost, you might choose to take a train and go there. Weekly expenses range from $750 to $1250. Your pet can get much-needed training and socialization while staying at the trainer’s kennel, including the basics.
To save money, you might easily teach your pet with the help of free web resources and advice from friends and family.
We’ve included a breakdown of the costs of our most popular dog training programs for your perusal:
| Group training (cost per class) | $20 per class |
| Private obedience school (cost per session) | $45.00 to $120 |
| Dog boot camp | weekly about $500 to $1250 |
| Minimum online training program price | $99.00 |
| YouTube videos | $0.00 |
| Minimum puppy basic training cost (total) | $500.00 |
| Maximum puppy basic training cost with boarding (total) | $2000.00 |
Food Costs for Bolognese
Along with protein, dogs require a range of essential elements in their meals. Additionally, their food intake varies according to their age.
As a puppy, Bolognese should be fed puppy chow cooked with the Bolognese recipe; as an adult, he can consume any dog food he desires. You may also opt to continue providing the animal with the same food it received from the breeder or shelter.
The typical Bolognese weighs between 6 and 9 pounds. They require small-breed dog food because they are too little to swallow large dog food pellets safely. Depending on the kind, ingredients, and manufacturer, a 7-pound bag of dog food for small breeds may cost between $30 and $50.
See the table below for a breakdown of costs for various dog food options:
| Type of food | Monthly quantity of food for a 6-9 lb. Bolognese | Cost per month |
| Premium dry food | 10 lb. | $30 to $50 |
| Premium wet food | 15 lb. | $122 |
| Freeze-dried food | 10 lb. | $200 |
| Frozen food | 15 lb. | $175 |
| Raw food | 10 lb. | $100 |
| Dog treats | $20 |
Cost Comparison of the Best Dog Food for Bolognese
A Bolognese needs about 300-350 calories daily to maintain weight. The unique dietary and energetic needs of small breed dogs are met by food formulated for them. Protein, good fats, complex carbs, and antioxidants all play essential roles in a small breed dog’s diet.
The food you select for your pup should be healthy and simple for their little jaws to chew. Instead of one colossal meal or even two medium meals, feeding your tiny pet three smaller meals daily is best. Because of this, your cat will get the nourishment it needs while playing and discovering new things.
The following table may help you choose the best meal for your pup.
| Name | Features | Price |
| Nutro Natural Choice Small Bites Adult Dry Dog Food, Lamb & Chicken | Small kibble size, high protein, non-GMO, cooked in USA kitchens, contains fiber and antioxidants | $3.20/lb. |
| Royal Canin Canine Care Nutrition Small Digestive Care Dry Dog Food | Ideal for dogs with sensitive tummies as it contains an optimal blend of highly digestible proteins, prebiotics, and dietary fibers | $12.85/lb. |
| Blue Buffalo Life Protection Small Breed Dogs | Small kibble size, contains real meat as the first ingredient, antioxidant-rich dog food, free from by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or preservatives | $2.40/lb |
| Cesar Gourmet Wet Dog Food | Complete balanced food with vitamins and minerals, plenty of variety for picky eaters, made in the USA, grain-free | $1 per can |
Bolognese Medical Costs
Vaccinations for a Puppy
Vaccination costs can range from free to several hundred dollars, depending on your dog’s age and the disease(s) you’re protecting him from.
Most countries mandate immunizations against distemper, parvovirus, hepatitis C, parainfluenza, and rabies. The typical cost of a single dose is around $100.
Regular Immunisations for Adult Dog
DHPP and rabies immunizations are required every 1–3 years, respectively. Shots given after the puppy reaches four months of age, such as the DHPP and rabies vaccines, are far more cost-effective than those given when the dog is a puppy. The usual rate for a shot is between $15 and $20.
| Age of Puppy | Core vaccination/ preventive treatment | Non-core vaccination | Cost** |
| 6-8 weeks | Parvo, distemper, adenovirus (hepatitis) | Distemper vaccine alone costs (first year) $20-$30. The total cost of vaccination is between $75 and $100 | |
| 10-12 weeks | Parvo, distemper, adenovirus (hepatitis) rabies and leptospirosis | Distemper + measles combo and Giardia | Rabies vaccine in the first year $15 to $25 Distemper – $20 to $30- total between $75 and $100 |
| 12-16 weeks | Parvo, distemper, adenovirus (hepatitis), leptospirosis | total between $75 and $100 | |
| 26-52 weeks | Boosters for the above, rabies | Lyme, if present in your region, | totals between $75 and $100. Lyme disease vaccine costs between $20-$40 |
| Every six months | Bordetella, parainfluenza | $20-$50 | |
| Every three years | Rabies | Influenza | $20-$50 |
| Every two weeks until 12 weeks, then monthly until six months | Deworming | Annual cost – $80-$200 | |
| Monthly after 12 weeks | Flea and tick prevention | Annual cost $40-$200 |
Miscellaneous Medical Costs
| Name | Cost |
| Routine checkup | $50 and $250 |
| Spaying or neutering | $160-$200 |
| Physical exam | $45 – $55 |
| Fecal exam | $25-$75 |
| Heartworm test | $45-$50 |
| Dental cleaning | $70-$400 |
| Allergy testing | $195-$300 |
| Bloodwork | $80-$100 |
| X-ray | Up to $200 |
| USG | Up to $500 |
| Hospitalization | $600-$3500 |
| Emergency surgery | Up to $5000 |
Common diseases in Bolognese
Despite their robust health, Bolognese may suffer from genetic conditions such as:
Hip dysplasia
These dogs will usually suffer from genetically affected hip dysplasia.
Walking and running will be difficult for a Swedish Vallhund with hip dysplasia since the dog will have an altered stride and experience pain. In addition, it may walk unusually for its species. If your dog has this condition, the treatment will differ depending on his age and overall health. The cost of surgery is around $3000.
Dental Problems
Even though your Bolognese is little, he is well proportioned. The sole exception to this rule is his teeth, which are often disproportionately large in relation to the rest of his mouth due to the tiny size of his jaw. Overcrowding, double teeth, and early tooth decay are all consequences of this. Usually, dental problems can be cured in the cost range of $3000 to $3500.
Patellar luxation
If the kneecap moves out of its standard groove, a condition known as patellar luxation will develop. In most cases, patellar luxation is a congenital (present at birth) defect in dogs.
Some owners of newborn pets may not recognize Patellar even though it is easily detectable a month after birth. That’s why taking your newborn Bolognese Dog in for a checkup as soon as possible is crucial.
A veterinarian can detect a dislocation by touching the hip region and feeling the kneecaps slide out of place. Abnormalities in hind limb movement and skipping are two indications to watch out for. Usually, the patellar luxation treatment costs around $3000.
Should You Buy Pet Insurance for Your Bolognese?
Getting pet insurance is highly recommended, as it can help pay for a wide range of veterinary care costs. Vaccinations, as well as other preventative care, may possibly be covered by your insurance policy. Hospitalization and diagnostic tests are often included in insurance coverage and may save dog owners hundreds of dollars.
Before signing up with anyone pet insurance company, thorough research is essential. That’s because policies vary so widely from firm to firm. Some businesses will even have you pay upfront and then reimburse you. However, this may not always be doable, depending on the costs involved.
Your pet’s age and where you live are two factors that will influence the cost of your monthly premium. If we had to guess, we’d say your monthly insurance premiums would be somewhere between $40 to $80. With this sum, you should be able to invest wisely and secure adequate protection.
See below for a breakdown of expenses associated with the most well-regarded pet insurance plans, as well as links to relevant company websites:
| Name | Cost per month |
| Pumpkin Pet Insurance | $50-$80 |
| Lemonade | Plans start from $10 a month |
Additional Costs of Owning a Bolognese
Besides food and veterinary care, a Bolognese owner will inevitably incur the following costs:
Microchipping
Microchipping your Bolognese is quick and easy and may help ensure your pet’s safety. Your dog will need to have a special chip implanted under its skin for this to work. The typical cost at a veterinarian clinic is $45.
Pet Sitting & Walking
Your Bolognese will benefit from regular exercise. You should take your dog out for two 25- to 30-minute walks per day. Many behavioral challenges will be decreased owing to this because a tired dog is a more friendly dog. Paying a dog walker to do this for you is an option if you’re too busy to do it yourself. You may expect to pay anything from $10 to $50 for a 30-minute stroll with most guides.
Travel Costs
Whereabouts in the world are you headed, and will you be bringing your Bolognese with you? A one-way journey for this little dog might cost as much as $250 due to the high expense of renting or buying an airline-approved dog carrier.
Is it feasible to get a pet sitter if you don’t want to bring yours along? Pet sitters may charge as much as $45 daily, depending on the services provided. To avoid this, you can choose to board your dog for a fee that ranges from $40 to $75 per night at most dog hotels.
Key Takeaways – How Much Does a Bolognese Cost?
Pet ownership costs are high, even for a little dog like a Bolognese.
Initial cost
You can buy a puppy and pay its costs if you spend between $1200 and $2000 total. Your responsibility will also include bearing the financial burden of having your animals vaccinated, spayed, or neutered and paying for any other necessary.
Expenses in the first year
The price for the first year will include not only the initial and medical costs but also the cost of food, training, insurance, tick and insect treatment, and other necessities. In the first year, costs such as haircuts and vacations may add up to around $2,000 total. Between the initial purchase and the costs associated with getting started, the first year with a new dog might cost as much as $4000.
Annual cost
After the first year, the expense of keeping a Bolognese may be considerably above $1500 annually. This includes, but is not limited to, the cost of food, insurance, veterinarian care, housing, grooming, and travel expenses for your pet.
Lifetime cost
The average Bolognese lives somewhere between 12 and 14 years of age. The cost of parenting this specific breed of dog is estimated to be between $1,500 and $2,000 each year, bringing the total cost of the dog and its upbringing to a total of around $20,000.
We hope our Bolognese pricing guide helps you plan for its purchase.
