The Bolognese is believed to be a descendant of the Bichon Frize, a breed that is native to Malta and southern Italy. They get their name because they were first bred and bred in Bologna, northern Italy, and the breed has been around for a very long time, first appearing on the scene in the 11th and 12th centuries. During the 15th century, these little dogs were extremely popular with the Italian nobility when kept as companion dogs.