The Bolo Tzu is a small and adorable dog breed that is a cross between the Bolognese and Shih Tzu. These dogs were specifically bred to be companions, and they make excellent lap dogs due to their small size and affectionate nature. Bolo Tzus are known for their playful personalities and love to be around people.
One of the key characteristics of the Bolo Tzu is their size. These dogs typically weigh between 8 and 14 pounds and stand about 9 to 12 inches tall. Despite their small stature, they are energetic and love to play, making them great pets for families with children. However, due to their small size, they are not well-suited for households with large dogs or active pets.
Another notable trait of the Bolo Tzu is their appearance. These dogs have long, silky hair that requires regular grooming to keep it looking healthy and beautiful. They come in a variety of colors, including white, black, brown, and gray. Overall, the Bolo Tzu is an excellent companion dog that is perfect for anyone looking for a small, affectionate pet.
Origins of Bolo Tzu
Bolo Tzu is a relatively new designer dog breed that is a crossbreed between the Bolognese and Shih Tzu breeds. The exact origins of this breed are not well-documented, but it is believed that breeders began crossing purebred dogs to create designer dogs in the 2000s.
The Bolognese breed is an old European lap dog that has been around since the 13th century. They were bred to be companions and were popular with the aristocracy in Italy. The Shih Tzu breed, on the other hand, is an ancient breed that originated in China. They were bred to be companions for the Chinese nobility and were highly valued for their affectionate nature and small size.
When the Bolognese and Shih Tzu breeds were crossed, the result was the Bolo Tzu. This breed combines the endearing characteristics of both parent breeds, including their affectionate nature, small size, and adorable appearance.
Bolo Tzu dogs are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities, making them great family pets. They are also intelligent and easy to train, which makes them great for first-time dog owners. However, it is important to note that Bolo Tzus may be prone to certain health problems, such as poor eyesight, skin problems, and eye ailments, due to their mixed-breed ancestry.
Overall, the Bolo Tzu is a charming and affectionate breed that makes a great companion for those looking for a small and friendly dog.
Physical Characteristics
Size and Weight
The Bolo Tzu is a small dog breed that typically weighs between 9 and 15 pounds once fully grown. According to PetGuide, males and females are generally the same size, with males being slightly larger. They have a compact, sturdy build and a round head with large, almond-shaped eyes.
Coat and Colors
The Bolo Tzu has a long, silky, wavy coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting. The coat can come in a variety of colors, including solid white, black and white, sable, or tri-color. They have a short, round muzzle with a black cherry-like nose. According to Dog Product Picker, their tail is feathered and curved, adding to their adorable appearance.
Overall, the Bolo Tzu is a small dog breed with a compact, sturdy build and a long, silky, wavy coat that comes in a variety of colors. They are a charming and adorable breed that makes an excellent companion for those looking for a small dog.
Temperament and Behavior
Personality
The Bolo Tzu is a social and affectionate dog that loves to be around people. They are clever and quick to learn, making them a joy to train. They are also known for their playful and energetic nature, making them great companions for families with children. Bolo Tzus are loyal and loving dogs that enjoy spending time with their owners. They have a happy-go-lucky personality that makes them a pleasure to be around.
Interaction with Children and Other Pets
Bolo Tzus are great with children and other pets. They are gentle and patient with kids, making them a great choice for families with young children. They are also friendly with other pets, including cats and dogs. However, as with any dog, it is important to supervise their interactions with other animals to ensure that everyone is safe and happy.
In conclusion, the Bolo Tzu is a social, affectionate, and playful dog that gets along well with children and other pets. They are loyal and loving companions that enjoy spending time with their owners. With proper training and socialization, they make great family pets.
Health and Lifespan
Common Health Issues
As a designer dog, the Bolo Tzu is generally healthier than its parent breeds. However, like all dogs, it can still be prone to certain health issues. According to PetGuide, some common health problems that the Bolo Tzu may face include joint issues such as Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease, respiratory ailments, and periodontal issues. To help prevent these issues, it is important to provide the Bolo Tzu with proper nutrition, exercise, and dental care.
Life Expectancy
The Bolo Tzu has a relatively long lifespan for a small breed, with an average lifespan of 13 years. However, this lifespan can vary depending on various factors such as genetics, diet, and overall health. To ensure a long and healthy life for the Bolo Tzu, it is important to provide regular veterinary checkups, a balanced diet, and plenty of exercise.
Care and Maintenance
Diet Requirements
The Bolo Tzu is a small breed and requires a balanced diet to maintain good health. Plan to feed them 2-3 smaller meals each day instead of free-feeding to prevent joint issues later in life. As flat-faced dogs can be challenged by regular-shaped food dishes, owners should investigate some of the bowls specially shaped to allow easier access to food and a cleaner meal period. A high-quality dog food that is appropriate for their age, size, and activity level is recommended. Owners should avoid table scraps and human food as it can cause digestive problems and obesity.
Exercise Needs
The Bolo Tzu is an active breed that requires regular exercise to maintain good health. Daily walks or playtime in a fenced yard can meet their exercise needs. They enjoy playing with toys and interacting with their owners. However, owners should be careful not to over-exercise their Bolo Tzu as they are prone to respiratory problems due to their flat faces.
Grooming
The Bolo Tzu requires regular grooming to maintain their coat and prevent matting. They have a long, silky coat that requires daily brushing to prevent tangling and matting. Regular bathing is also necessary to keep their coat clean and healthy. Owners should also check their ears regularly for signs of infection and trim their nails as needed to prevent overgrowth. Dental care is also important to maintain good oral health. Owners should brush their teeth regularly and provide them with dental chews or toys to promote healthy teeth and gums.
Overall, the Bolo Tzu is a low-maintenance breed that requires regular care and attention to maintain good health. Owners should provide them with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and regular grooming to ensure they live a happy and healthy life.
Training a Bolo Tzu
Training a Bolo Tzu can be a challenging task, but with patience and consistency, it can be accomplished successfully. This section will provide insights into some of the training challenges and tips to help you train your Bolo Tzu effectively.
Training Challenges
Bolo Tzus are known to be a challenge to housebreak, and it may take a longer time to train them than other breeds. They may not take to toilet training as naturally as other breeds, and it is normal to experience accidents during the training process. However, with patience and consistency, they can be trained successfully.
Bolo Tzus can be stubborn, which can make training more difficult. They may also be prone to barking excessively, which can be a challenge to manage. Additionally, they may be difficult to crate train, requiring more time and effort to get them comfortable with the crate.
Training Tips
To train a Bolo Tzu effectively, it is essential to use positive reinforcement techniques. Rewarding good behavior with treats, praise, and playtime can help motivate them to learn and obey commands. Consistency is also vital, as Bolo Tzus may become confused if they receive mixed signals.
It is recommended to start training a Bolo Tzu at an early age, as they are more receptive to learning during their puppyhood. Housebreaking should be a priority, and crate training can also be helpful. Patience is key, and it is essential to avoid punishment or negative reinforcement, as this can be counterproductive and lead to behavioral issues.
In summary, training a Bolo Tzu can be a challenging task, but with patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement techniques, it can be accomplished successfully. Early training, housebreaking, and crate training are essential, and avoiding punishment or negative reinforcement is crucial for a happy and well-trained Bolo Tzu.
Where to Get a Bolo Tzu
If you’re interested in getting a Bolo Tzu, there are two main options: adoption or purchasing from a breeder.
Adoption
Adopting a Bolo Tzu can be a great option for those who want to give a loving home to a dog in need. There are many animal shelters and rescue organizations that may have Bolo Tzus available for adoption. Some good places to start looking include:
- Petfinder
- Adopt-a-Pet
- Local animal shelters and rescue organizations
Keep in mind that adoption fees may vary and you may need to go through a screening process before you can adopt a Bolo Tzu.
Breeders
If you decide to purchase a Bolo Tzu from a breeder, it’s important to do your research to find a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs. Some things to look for in a breeder include:
- Health clearances for both parent breeds
- A clean and safe breeding environment
- A breeder who is knowledgeable about the breed and can answer your questions
- A breeder who provides proper socialization for their puppies
You can search for Bolo Tzu breeders online, but make sure to read reviews and do your research before making a purchase. The American Kennel Club also provides a helpful guide on how to find a responsible breeder.
Keep in mind that purchasing a Bolo Tzu from a breeder may be more expensive than adoption, but you may have more control over the dog’s upbringing and be able to choose a specific color or gender.