Lagotto Romagnolo

Breed Origin

Historical documents illustrate the Lagotto Romagnolo as a curly-haired water dog that functioned as both a loyal companion and an assistant for waterfowl hunters in the marshes of Romagna, a region in northern Italy. This breed was particularly adept at retrieving, capable of working for long durations, and their water-resistant double coat enabled them to retrieve ducks and coots from icy waters. However, as the 19th century came to a close, the marshlands of Romagna were drained, leading these adaptable dogs to transition to a new role: truffle hunting, where they also demonstrated remarkable skill. Unfortunately, those who employed them for this purpose often prioritized efficiency over the preservation of breed integrity, resulting in a decrease in the population of purebred Lagotto Romagnolo dogs. In the 1970s, a committed group of breeders, veterinarians, and enthusiasts launched a genetic reconstruction initiative to safeguard the breed from extinction. By 1988, interest in the Lagotto Romagnolo had surged, leading to the formation of the Club Italiano Lagotto, and in 1992, the breed received official recognition from the Ente Nazionale Cinofilia Italiana. Their intelligent and lively nature captivated dog enthusiasts in countries like Australia, France, Germany, Great Britain, Scandinavia, and the United States. The breed gained international acknowledgment from the FCI in 1995, and in 2015, the American Kennel Club recognized it as part of the sporting group.

Care Routine

This breed is recognized for its cleanliness, exhibiting minimal shedding and odor, and typically requires bathing only about once a month. To preserve its appearance, it is advisable to allow the coat to air dry rather than using a blow dryer or brushing it. Regular grooming, ideally three to four times a year, is vital to prevent tangles and matting in its wool-like fur. As the coat grows, it’s important to frequently inspect it for any mats, grass seeds, or burrs, particularly around the joints, beard, and behind the ears. Furthermore, the Lagotto Romagnolo often develops excess hair in its ear canals, which should be trimmed regularly to avoid the buildup of dirt and wax. This breed is also quite energetic, both physically and mentally, requiring plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to flourish. Fortunately, they enjoy a variety of activities that meet these needs, including walks, puzzle toys, swimming, and agility training. However, they do have a tendency to dig, so training is essential to manage this behavior and protect your garden.

Play & Exercise