General Appearance The Bolognese is a very sturdy, small dog. They are highly intelligent, quick to learn, and completely devoted to their masters. They have a pleasing disposition and are wonderful playmates for children.

Head
The medium length head is proportionate to the size of the body. The stop is moderate. The moderate length muzzle has no indication of snippiness. The lips and nose must be absolutely black, no other color is allowed.

Teeth
A full complement of strong, white teeth meeting in a scissors bite is preferred. A level bite is permissible. Six (6) upper and six (6) (lower incisors are preferred, however it is more important that the incisors present an even, smooth line between the canines. The size of the dog often determines the number of incisors.

Eyes
The eyes must be well open, and of a size larger than normal. They are round and dark. Eye rim pigmentation is black. The eye expression is that of a lively and intelligent dog.

Nose
Nose color must be black. No other color is allowed.

Ears
The medium long, dropped ears are placed high on the head. The upper part rests lightly aside the skull, giving the head the appearance of width.

Neck
The neck is of sufficient length to give a graceful balance to the overall appearance of the dog.

Forelegs
The forelegs have moderate angulation. They are well-boned.

Body
A square overall appearance is the most desirable, but slightly oblong is permissible. The body should appear sturdy. The topline is straight. The ribs are well sprung.

Hind legs
The hind legs have moderate angulation. They are well-boned.

Tail
The tail is carried curved over the back. It is furnished with long hair in locks.

Coat
The hair is long, in locks, without laying flat against the body. The locks cover the entire head, body and limbs, and appear shorter only on the forehead. The tail is furnished with long hair in locks.
The coat is shown natural length, with no trimming except for neatening around the bottom of the feet and for hygienic purposes.

Color
White is the acceptable color. Champagne color is permissible on puppies, as this indicates strong pigmentation in the genes. The adult dog is not to be faulted for small touches of champagne on the ears and occasionally on the back, but as an adult must give the overall appearance of a white dog.

Height & weight
Height range for males is from 10 to 12-1/2 inches, measured at the shoulders.
Height range for females is from 9 to 12 inches, measured at the shoulder.
Weight averages from eight (8) to fourteen (14) pounds.
Mid-weight and mid-height are considered the most desirable.

Gait
The forelegs reach straight forward freely from the shoulder. The rear legs converge toward a straight line. The Judge must see the tail carried over the back while gaiting.

Disqualifications
Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid. Extreme viciousness or shyness. Undershot bite. Overshot bite. Lack of good, black pigment on the nose, lips, or eye rims. Straight coat in an adult.