Lagotto Romagnolo

The Lagotto Romagnolo (plural: Lagotti Romagnoli) is an ancient breed of water retriever originating from the marshlands of Romagna in northeastern Italy, with a history that can be traced back to at least the Renaissance period, possibly much earlier. The name “Lagotto” likely comes from “lago,” the Italian word for lake, reflecting their original purpose. These hardy and agile dogs were indispensable to local hunters for retrieving waterfowl from the extensive marshlands. Their dense, curly, oily coat provided excellent protection from cold water and thorny vegetation.

As the marshlands of Romagna were drained in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and converted to arable land, the traditional role of the Lagotto as a water retriever diminished. However, their exceptional scenting ability, intelligence, and tractable nature found a new purpose: truffle hunting. The Lagotto Romagnolo proved to be remarkably adept at locating these valuable subterranean fungi in the forests and hills of the region. Today, they are the only purebred dog in the world specifically recognized as a specialized truffle hunter. Dedicated Italian breeders worked to preserve the breed from near extinction in the 1970s, and the Lagotto Romagnolo was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2015.

The Lagotto Romagnolo is known for its affectionate, keen, and intelligent temperament. They are typically very devoted to their families, forming strong bonds and thriving on human companionship. Lagotti are often described as being undemanding in their affection but deeply loyal. They are playful, energetic, and possess a natural eagerness to please, which makes them highly trainable. Their intelligence means they learn quickly but also require consistent mental stimulation to prevent boredom.

As working dogs, they are alert and observant, and can make good watchdogs, barking to announce visitors, though they are not typically aggressive. They are generally good with children, especially if raised with them, and can get along well with other dogs and pets with proper socialization from a young age. Their history as retrievers and scent hunters means they have a natural curiosity and enjoy exploring. They are sensitive dogs that respond best to positive reinforcement and gentle, consistent training methods.

The Lagotto Romagnolo has a distinctive double coat that is woolly in texture, forming tight, ring-shaped curls all over the body, except on the head where the curls are looser, forming noticeable eyebrows, whiskers, and a beard. This waterproof coat is a hallmark of the breed.

While considered low-shedding (hair tends to get caught in the curls rather than falling out), the Lagotto’s coat requires regular and specific grooming to prevent matting and maintain its health and rustic appearance. The coat should be clipped down at least once or twice a year to prevent it from felting. Between clippings, regular brushing or combing (depending on coat length) is needed to prevent mats from forming close to the skin. It’s important not to brush out the curls too much if a corded or tightly curled look is desired. The hair inside the ear canal also needs to be plucked or trimmed regularly to prevent moisture buildup and infections. Regular nail trims and dental care are also essential.

Lagotti Romagnoli are active and energetic dogs that require regular daily exercise and, equally importantly, mental stimulation to thrive. They were bred as working dogs with good stamina and enjoy having a job to do. Aim for at least an hour of activity per day, which should include more than just leisurely leash walks.

Good exercise options for a Lagotto include:

• Brisk daily walks, jogging, or hiking, especially in natural environments where they can use their keen senses.
• Swimming, which most Lagotti love, given their water retriever heritage.
• Retrieving games with balls or toys, both on land and in water.
• Off-leash play in a securely fenced yard.
• Canine sports that challenge their intelligence and agility, such as truffle hunting (their specialty!), scent work, tracking, agility, or obedience.

Without sufficient exercise and mental engagement, Lagotti can become bored, which may lead to undesirable behaviors. They are best suited to active individuals or families who can provide them with consistent physical activity and mental challenges that utilize their natural abilities.

The Lagotto Romagnolo is generally considered a healthy and robust breed, but like all breeds, they can be susceptible to certain genetic health conditions. Responsible breeders screen their breeding stock for these issues. Potential health concerns include:

• Hip Dysplasia: A malformation of the hip joint. Elbow dysplasia can also occur. OFA or similar certifications are important for breeding stock.
• Benign Familial Juvenile Epilepsy (BFJE):** An inherited form of epilepsy that typically resolves by adulthood. DNA testing is available.
• Lagotto Storage Disease (LSD):** A serious, progressive neurological disorder. DNA testing is available and crucial for breeding stock.
• Eye Conditions: Including cataracts and occasionally Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA). Eye certification by a veterinary ophthalmologist is recommended.
• Cerebellar Abiotrophy:** A neurological condition affecting coordination.