Lagotto Romagnolo Breed Guide

What is the history & origin of the Lagotto Romagnolo?

The Romagna Water Dog is an ancient Italian breed that worked alongside villagers and hunters in the countryside of Comacchio and Ravenna over 600 years ago.

The poet Erasmo Di Valvasone first mentions this "rough and curly-haired breed of dog that does not fear the sun, ice, or water that climbs mountains, fords rivers, and runs onto steep rocky places" in his 1591 poem La Caccia.

Over the centuries, the marshes and lowlands were drained to make way for farmland, and the Lagotto Romagnolo adapted from a waterfowl retriever breed to the world's first dog breed developed especially for hunting truffles.

The breed has been recognised by the American Kennel Club as a sporting breed since 2015.

Who are Lagotto Romagnolo dogs best for?

A Lagotto Romagnolo will thrive in an active, outdoor-loving family with older dogs and children. As this family pet reaches adulthood, they may become somewhat impatient with puppies, children, and other young excitable pets. Always supervise interactions with children and other pets.

As you can imagine, these dogs are just as good at dog sports as they are at hunting truffles in a forest.

How much grooming does a Lagotto Romagnolo need?

Lagotto Romagnolo pups sport a dense coat of curly, woolly hair, as opposed to fur. The thick topcoat is semi-rough with an abundant waterproof and water-repellent undercoat.

You don't need to groom this lake dog on a daily basis; however, you should comb your pup's curly coat regularly with a wide-tooth metal comb to prevent matting.

Also, pay special attention to your best friend's nails and ears as they require maintenance between groomer's visits to prevent infections and cankers.

Restoring a neglected Lagotto Romagnolo's coat to its former glory can be an intensive, time-consuming process.

To groom a Lagotto Romagnolo pet or show dog, you'll need the following items:

• a grooming table with an H-bar

• neck and belly straps

• nail clippers

• metal combs

• pin brushes

• ear plucking powder

• large professional standard grooming scissors

Get your puppy used to being handled from an early age, as it will make grooming and bathing less stressful and more enjoyable for both of you.

Do Lagotto Romagnolo bark much?

While this dog breed is not prone to excessive barking, you'll notice your furry friend's watchdog instincts when they try to warn off strangers.

Your Lagotto will confidently protect you and your family from outside threats, so make sure to socialise your puppy early. This is essential around other pets and small children.

Do Lagotto Romagnolo bite?

Most puppies bite to play, communicate, or relieve itchy gums, and Lagotto water dogs are no exception.

It is important to address this behaviour early in puppyhood and redirect it appropriately with training and obedience classes.

Offer chew toys and take your dog for daily walks. As the original breed was developed to hunt waterfowl, your Lagotto Romagnolo will happily join you on hikes and other adventures.

What is the temperament & personality of a Lagotto Romagnolo?

This sporting group breed needs human companionship by nature. Their friendly, playful, and curious traits make these pups ideal companions.

These dogs' hunting ancestry also makes them focused and observant watchdogs. The Lagotto Romagnolo is a dog that enjoys the mental stimulation provided by scenting and searching exercises.

This affectionate sporting group dog is territorial and will grow protective of you and your family members.

What is the weight & size of a Lagotto Romagnolo?

According to the breed standard, males are between 43 and 48 cm tall at the withers. Female Lagotto Romagnolo stand between 41 and 46 cm tall.

Truffle dogs are not large, and they should weigh between 11 and 16 kg.

How much training does a Lagotto Romagnolo need?

Compared to other dogs, this breed is highly intelligent and easily trained by combining play and exercise to engage and stimulate them. You can start training a dog as young as seven weeks old with a clicker, some treats, and some patience.

It's important that you remain consistent, fair, and clear when training your little furball to achieve a well-adjusted and confident companion.

Your Lagotto may no longer hunt truffles, but according to the Lagotto Romagnolo Club of Great Britain, they'll excel at agility training.

Swimming also provides your dog with excellent mental stimulation but remember that even a retriever puppy must first be taught to enjoy the water.

What are some of the most common health issues for a Lagotto Romagnolo?

The Lagotto is a pure breed that is remarkably free from major health problems in comparison to other dogs of pedigree.

Whether you adopt from rescue groups or a reputable breeder, it's vital to your pup's health that your vet or the breeder screen for Juvenile Epilepsy (JE) and Lysosomal Storage Disease (LSD).

Juvenile Epilepsy can be diagnosed in puppies as young as five weeks of age, and symptoms include seizures and ataxia.

Lysosomal Storage Disease is a rare condition but can lead to "developmental delay, movement disorders, seizures, dementia, deafness, and blindness".

Lagottos can also experience Canine Hip Dysplasia, a painful condition that affects the hip joints. An early Hip Dysplasia diagnosis is ideal for treatment outcome, so schedule regular vet visits during puppyhood as undiagnosed dysplasia can lead to arthritis in older dogs.

What is the lifespan of a Lagotto Romagnolo?

Bar any health problems; you can expect your Lagotto Romagnolo to live for as long as 14 to 16 years.

How much should you feed a Lagotto Romagnolo?

The Lagotto Romagnolo dog is generally not a fussy eater. Work with your trusted veterinarian and a canine nutritionist to figure out your dog's ideal diet.

Whether you feed dry dog food or choose to feed a raw dog food diet to your best friend, make any changes slowly. Introduce new foods over time and turn these taste tests into playful bonding sessions for you and your Lagotto.

Look out for signs of allergic reactions or digestive issues, and quickly remove the offending food. The Lagotto is very smart and will clearly let you know when a food or treat is not to their liking.

Maintain a regular feeding schedule and provide a variety of balanced, nutritious food to keep your Lagotto happy and healthy.

What is the price of a Lagotto Romagnolo in Australia?

A purebred Lagotto Romagnolo puppy can cost between $1,500 and $2,500. This initial cost decreases by a lot if you choose to adopt an abandoned Lagotto from a shelter or rescue. The adoption fee should guarantee that your new furbaby is neutered or spayed and vaccinated.

Puppies of any breed need to remain with their dog parent for the first few months of their lives, and you should not accept, adopt, or purchase any puppy that is younger than eight weeks. You should also ensure that the breeder you choose is registered with a breed club.

Patience is key before you find your little Lagotto puppy. Thoroughly research breeders, and ask questions when considering their litters.