Lagotto Romagnolo | 8 Things You Didn’t Know About Them

The Lagotto Romagnolo is a medium-sized dog that’s got more tricks up its sleeve than you might think. These Italian pups were originally water dogs, but now they’re known for sniffing out truffles like nobody’s business. They’re smart, active, and have a coat that’ll make you want to cuddle them all day long.

These dogs come from Italy, and they’ve been around for ages. They started as duck hunters but ended up becoming truffle experts. Talk about a career change, right? If you’re after a dog that’s both a hard worker and a loving companion, the Lagotto might just be your perfect match.

I. Lagotto Romagnolo – Breed History and Origin

A. Ancient roots in Italy

The Lagotto Romagnolo isn’t some new designer breed – these dogs have been kicking about in Italy for centuries. They come from the Romagna region, which is in the north-east of Italy. If you didn’t know, ‘Lagotto’ actually means ‘water dog’ in the local dialect. Pretty fitting, don’t you think?

B. Transition from waterfowl retriever to truffle hunter

Now, here’s where things get interesting. For a long time, these pups were ace duck hunters. They’d splash about in the marshlands, retrieving birds for their human hunting partners. But then, in the 19th century, something changed.

A lot of those marshlands were drained, which meant the Lagottos were out of a job. But did they sit around moping? No way! They put those amazing noses of theirs to work in a new field – truffle hunting. 

Turns out, Lagottos are brilliant at sniffing out these pricey fungi. They’re so good at it that they became the only breed specifically developed for truffle hunting. Talk about finding your niche!

C. Near extinction and revival

But it wasn’t all smooth sailing for the Lagotto. By the 1970s, they were nearly gone for good. Can you believe it? This amazing breed was almost lost to history.

Luckily, some passionate dog lovers stepped in. They worked hard to bring the Lagotto back from the brink. They carefully bred the remaining dogs, making sure to keep the breed’s best qualities. It was touch and go for a while, but they managed to save the Lagotto.

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II. Lagotto Romagnolo – Physical Characteristics

A. Size and weight

Lagotto Romagnolos are medium-sized dogs, but they’re built sturdy. The boys are usually a bit bigger than the girls. Male Lagottos typically stand between 17 to 19 inches tall at the shoulder. The ladies are a touch shorter, usually between 16 to 18 inches. As for weight, males usually tip the scales at 28 to 35 pounds, while females are typically 24 to 31 pounds.

B. Coat and colours

1. Curly, water-resistant coat

Lagottos are known for their amazing coats. They’re not just curly—they’re woolly and thick. This isn’t just for looks (though it does make them look adorably cuddly). Their coat is water-resistant, which was useful back in their duck-hunting days.

The texture of their coat is more like human hair than fur. They grow continuously, meaning they need regular grooming to keep them looking their best.

2. Color variations

When it comes to colour, Lagottos are like a box of chocolates – you never know what you’re going to get! They come in a range of shades, from off-white to brown and even orange. Some are solid-coloured, while others have patches or roan markings.

You might see a Lagotto that’s cream with brown spots, or one that’s solid chocolate brown. There are even some with a brownish ‘mask’ around their face. It’s like nature decided to have a bit of fun with its colour palette!

C. Distinctive features

Apart from their curly coat, Lagottos has a few other standout features. They’ve got round eyes that give them an alert, intelligent look. Their ears are triangular and covered in those signature curls. And let’s not forget their nose – it’s large and dark, perfect for sniffing out those truffles.

D. Hypoallergenic properties

Lagottos are often called hypoallergenic. Now, no dog is 100% allergy-proof, but Lagottos come pretty close. They don’t shed much, and their curly coat tends to trap dander (the stuff that usually causes allergies) close to their skin.

This means that if you’re usually sneezing up a storm around dogs, a Lagotto might be a good choice for you. Just remember, it’s always best to spend some time with a breed before you bring one home, just to make sure your allergies can handle it.

III. Lagotto Romagnolo – Exercise Requirements

Keeping your Lagotto Romagnolo happy and healthy is very important. These dogs aren’t couch potatoes, but they’re not marathon runners either. They need a good balance of exercise to stay in top form.

A. Daily exercise needs

Your Lagotto needs about an hour of exercise every day. This doesn’t mean you have to run them ragged, but a nice long walk or two shorter walks will do the trick. They’re active dogs, so if you’re a fan of outdoor activities, you’ve got yourself a perfect partner.

B. Suitable activities

1. Swimming

These dogs were originally water retrievers. Most Lagottos love a good splash about. If you’ve got a pool or live near a lake, your furry friend will be in heaven. Just make sure to rinse them off afterwards to keep their coat in good shape.

2. Agility

Lagottos are smart cookies and they love a challenge. Agility courses are a great way to give them physical exercise and mental stimulation. You don’t need a professional setup – even a homemade obstacle course in your garden will do.

3. Nose work

Given their truffle-hunting background, Lagottos have amazing noses. Hide some treats around the house or garden and let them sniff them out. It’s a great way to tire them out mentally and physically.

C. Mental stimulation exercises

Don’t forget about brain games! Puzzle toys, training sessions, and even simple games like hide-and-seek can keep your Lagotto’s mind sharp. A tired dog is a good dog, and that goes for mental tiredness too.

IV. Lagottos – Grooming and Care

You need to keep your Lagotto looking and feeling their best. These curly cuties need a bit more grooming than your average dog, but it’s worth it.

A. Coat maintenance

1. Brushing frequency

You’ll need to brush your Lagotto at least 2-3 times a week. Their curly coat can mat easily, so regular brushing is a must. Use a metal comb to get right down to the skin.

2. Trimming and professional grooming

Most Lagotto owners get their dogs trimmed every 2-3 months. You can learn to do this yourself, but many people prefer to use a professional groomer. The ‘puppy cut’ is popular – it keeps them looking cute and is easier to maintain.

B. Bathing

You don’t need to bathe your Lagotto too often – once a month is usually enough unless they’ve been rolling in something smelly. Use a dog shampoo that’s gentle on their skin.

C. Ear care

Those cute floppy ears can trap moisture and debris, so check them weekly. Clean them with a gentle ear cleaner if needed. If you notice any redness or smell, get them checked by a vet.

D. Nail trimming

Like all dogs, Lagottos need their nails trimmed regularly. Aim for every 2-3 weeks. If you can hear their nails clicking on the floor, they’re too long.

E. Dental care

Don’t forget those pearly whites! Brush your Lagotto’s teeth a few times a week to keep their mouth healthy. Dental chews can help too, but they’re not a replacement for brushing.

V. Lagottos – Health Concerns

Lagottos are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues. Here’s what you need to know:

A. Common health issues

1. Hip and elbow dysplasia

This is a common issue in many dog breeds. It’s when the hip or elbow joint doesn’t fit together properly, which can lead to arthritis. Keep your Lagotto at a healthy weight to reduce strain on their joints.

2. Lagotto Storage Disease (LSD)

This is a genetic condition specific to Lagottos. It affects their nervous system and can cause behavioural changes and coordination problems. The good news is that responsible breeders test for this.

3. Benign Familial Juvenile Epilepsy (BFJE)

Some Lagotto puppies might have seizures when they’re very young. The good news is that most grow out of it by about 4 months old. It doesn’t usually cause long-term problems.

4. Other genetic conditions

Lagottos can also be prone to things like eye problems and a condition called cerebellar abiotrophy, which affects their balance and coordination.

B. Health testing recommendations

If you’re getting a Lagotto puppy, make sure the breeder has done health tests. They should test for hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, eye problems, and genetic tests for LSD and BFJE. Don’t be shy about asking for proof of these tests.

C. Lifespan and general health

Despite these potential health issues, Lagottos are generally healthy dogs. With good care, they can live 14-17 years. That’s a long time for a dog of their size!

To keep your Lagotto in tip-top shape, feed them a good quality diet, keep them at a healthy weight, give them plenty of exercise, and don’t skip those vet check-ups.

VI. Lagotto Romagnolo – Nutrition and Feeding

Feeding your Lagotto right is key to keeping them healthy and happy.

A. Dietary needs

Lagottos need a balanced diet with plenty of protein, some healthy fats, and a bit of carbs for energy. Look for high-quality dog food that lists real meat as the first ingredient.

B. Feeding schedule

Most adult Lagottos do well with two meals a day. Puppies need to eat more often – about 3-4 times a day until they’re about 6 months old.

C. Portion control

It’s easy to overfeed these cute faces, but keeping your Lagotto at a healthy weight is crucial. Follow the feeding guidelines on your dog food, but remember they’re just a starting point. Adjust based on your dog’s activity level and body condition.

D. Special dietary considerations

Some Lagottos can be prone to food allergies. If you notice your dog scratching a lot or having tummy troubles, chat with your vet. They might recommend a special diet or trying different protein sources.

VII. Lagotto Romagnolo in Various Roles

These curly cuties are more than just pretty faces. Let’s chat about the different hats a Lagotto can wear.

A. Truffle hunting

This is what Lagottos are famous for. Their noses are like supercomputers when it comes to sniffing out truffles. If you’re into foraging or just fancy a unique hobby, your Lagotto could be your secret weapon in the truffle world.

B. Sporting and agility competitions

Lagottos aren’t just about truffles. They’re smart and agile, making them ace candidates for dog sports. Agility courses? They’ll zip through ’em. Obedience trials? They’ll make you proud. These dogs love a challenge and they’re always up for learning new tricks.

C. Therapy and service work

With their gentle nature and keen intelligence, Lagottos can make fantastic therapy dogs. They’re great at comforting people and can be trained for various service roles. If you’re looking for a dog with a job, a Lagotto could fit the bill.

D. Family companionship

At the end of the day, Lagottos shine as family pets. They’re affectionate, playful, and love being part of the gang. Whether you’re up for a hike or just want to cuddle on the sofa, your Lagotto will be right there with you.

VIII. Adopting or Buying a Lagotto Romagnolo

Thinking of bringing a Lagotto into your life? Here’s what you need to know.

A. Finding reputable breeders

If you’re set on a puppy, make sure you go to a reputable breeder. Look for someone who does health tests, lets you meet the parents, and isn’t churning out loads of litter. The Lagotto Romagnolo Club of America is a good place to start your search.

B. Adoption options

Don’t rule out adoption. While Lagottos aren’t common in shelters, you might get lucky. Check with breed-specific rescues or keep an eye on general rescue sites.

C. Costs and considerations

Lagottos aren’t cheap. Expect to pay anywhere from £1,500 to £2,500 for a puppy from a good breeder. Remember, that’s just the start – you’ve got food, vet bills, and grooming costs to think about too.

D. Preparing your home

Before your Lagotto arrives, stock up on grooming tools, toys, and a crate. Puppy-proof your house and garden – these clever dogs can get into all sorts of mischief!

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