Lagotto Breed Guide
Formal breed name: Lagotto Romagnolo
Also known as: Italian Water Dog, Truffle Dog
Italy's truffle hunters, Lagotto Romagnolos are curly-coated water dogs whose intelligence and hypoallergenic coats appeal to active sporting enthusiasts.
Quick facts about this breed
Size
Medium
Weight
11-16 kg
Lifespan
15-17 years
Energy Level
High
Family Fit
Loves all ages
Shedding
Low
Size
Medium
Weight
11-16 kg
Lifespan
15-17 years
Energy Level
High
Family Fit
Loves all ages
Shedding
Low
About Lagottos
Developed in Italy during the Renaissance, the Lagotto Romagnolo was originally bred as a water retriever for hunting waterfowl in Italian marshlands. When the marshes were drained, they were retrained as truffle hunters and remain the world's only specialised truffle-hunting breed.
Their dense, curly coat requires regular brushing to prevent matting and professional grooming every few months. Lagotto Romagnolo are intelligent and affectionate, known for their strong scenting ability and eagerness to please.
They are devoted to their families and generally friendly with strangers and other dogs. Lagotto Romagnolo need moderate exercise and excel at activities that engage their scenting instincts. While generally healthy, potential owners should be aware of hip dysplasia, eye conditions, and bloat that can affect the breed.
Complete Care Guide for Lagottos
Expert advice on keeping your Lagotto healthy, happy, and thriving at every stage of life.
Establishing proper nutrition habits forms the foundation of a healthy life for your Lagotto. These intelligent working dogs require carefully balanced meals that align with their activity levels and life stage. A high-quality diet meeting AAFCO standards should provide all essential nutrients without the need for supplementation.
Portion control plays a vital role in maintaining optimal health, as Lagottos can become overweight without proper monitoring. Dividing daily meals into two balanced servings helps regulate energy levels while supporting healthy digestion patterns. Adult dogs typically thrive on consistent morning and evening feeding schedules.
When selecting food for your Lagotto, prioritise options specifically formulated for their current life stage—puppy, adult, or senior. While these energetic dogs may beg for additional treats during training sessions, it's crucial to account for these extras within their total daily caloric intake. Consider using portion-controlled training treats or setting aside a small amount of their regular kibble for rewards.
Regular weight monitoring helps ensure your Lagotto maintains a healthy body condition. You should be able to feel their ribs with gentle pressure and observe a visible waist when viewed from above. If you notice significant weight changes, consult your veterinarian to adjust portions accordingly.
How healthy is your Lagotto?
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Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to the most common questions about Lagottos from our community of pet parents
The Lagotto Romagnolo is known for its friendly, affectionate, and loyal nature. They are highly intelligent, eager to please, and generally get along well with other dogs and animals. This breed is known for its exceptional ability to bond with its human family, making it a great companion.