The only book available on this rare and wonderful breed, this Comprehensive Owner's Guide to the Bolognese serves as a complete introduction for new and potential owner. This enchanting Italian "powderpuff" of a companion dog has been transfixing dog lovers around the globe by is affectionate character, beautiful coat, and distinctive charms. Written by Wolfgang Knorr, a bichon specialist who lives in Europe, this volume offers a fascinating account of the breed's history on the Continent as well as a special section on the breed's history in the United States written by breeder and author Amy Fernandez. The book continues with chapters on characteristics and the breed standard encapsulating all of the virtues of the Bolognese, offering sound advice about which owners are best suited to the breed. New owners will welcome the well-prepared chapter on finding a breeder and selecting a healthy, sound puppy. Chapters on puppy-proofing the home and yard, purchasing the right supplies for the puppy as well as house-training, feeding, and grooming are brimming with detail and illustrated with handsome adults and puppies.
In all, there are over 135 photographs in this compact, useful, and reliable volume. The author's advice on obedience training this lovely little dog will help readers better mold and train their dogs into the most socialized, well-mannered canine citizens. The extensive chapter on healthcare written by Dr. Lowell Ackerman provides accurate information on selecting a qualified veterinarian, vaccinations, parasites, infectious diseases, and more. The final chapter on showing the Bolognese offers insight and advice for owners interested in exhibiting their dogs in various kinds of dog shows. Sidebars throughout the text offer helpful hints, covering topics as diverse as vaccines, toxic plants, first aid, crate training, carsickness, fussy eaters, and more. Fully indexed.