Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka

The Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka is a small coloured lapdog developed in Soviet Leningrad, and the Cold War is part of why it exists.

History

Small companion dogs were scarce in the post-war Soviet Union and imports were not readily available, so breeders in Leningrad built one from the few French Bolognese, Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu and toy poodle dogs that reached the city, selecting deliberately for colour — tsvetnaya means coloured — against the white of the Bolognese. Russia recognised it in the 1960s.

Temperament

The breed is known for being affectionate, cheerful and closely attached to its people, sociable with children and other dogs and quieter than most toy breeds.

Care and training

Exercise needs are small. The long wavy coat mats and needs regular combing. It trains readily and dislikes being left alone.

Health

Generally healthy, with patellar luxation and dental crowding among the known tendencies. These are patterns for the breed rather than a forecast for one dog; the measured facts are in the panel.