Lagotto Romagnolo

Table of Contents

Quick Facts

• Energetic Italian water dog and truffle hunter with a curly, woolly coat that rarely sheds
• Highly trainable, people focused, and usually eager to work and learn new tasks
• Medium sized and robust, well suited to active families and outdoor lifestyles
• Excellent scenting abilities, often used in modern scent work, search games, and dog sports
• Coat needs regular trimming and maintenance, despite being considered low shedding and fairly allergy friendly for many people

Appearance & Coat

The Lagotto Romagnolo is a compact, medium sized dog with a sturdy, almost square build. Males usually stand around 43 to 48 centimeters at the shoulder, and females around 41 to 46 centimeters. Weight typically ranges from about 11 to 16 kilograms, depending on sex and individual structure. The overall impression is of a rustic, functional farm and water dog, built for stamina rather than speed. They should look strong, but never heavy or clumsy, with well developed muscles and a firm topline.

The head is slightly rounded, with a broad skull and a relatively short muzzle. The nose is large and well developed, ideal for scent work. Their expressive, round eyes come in shades of hazel to dark brown, blending harmoniously with the coat. Drop ears are medium in size and triangular, covered in curls that may look almost like little mop heads when the coat is longer. The tail is carried level or slightly raised when moving, never tightly curled over the back, and is also covered in dense curls.

The defining feature of the Lagotto Romagnolo is its coat. It is thick, curly, and woolly, with a distinct texture that provides protection against cold water, rain, and undergrowth. The curls are tight and even, forming ringlets that cover the entire body, including the ears and tail. On the head, the hair forms a slightly tousled fringe and beard that give the Lagotto its characteristic sweet, slightly serious expression.

Accepted colors include:

• Off white solid
• Off white with orange or brown patches
• Brown roan
• Solid brown in different shades
• Orange, with or without white markings

Some dogs have tan markings, which are also accepted. Black is not an allowed color for this breed.

Although many people think of the Lagotto as a hypoallergenic dog, it is more accurate to say that it is low shedding. The coat matures slowly, and unlike many other breeds, it does not go through heavy seasonal shedding twice a year. Instead, loose hairs tend to get trapped in the curls, which is one reason why regular grooming is essential. If brushing and combing are neglected, the coat quickly forms tight mats close to the skin, which can cause discomfort and even skin infections.

For practical coat care, owners should prepare for:

• Regular combing right down to the skin once or twice a week
• Occasional bathing, always followed by careful drying and fluffing the curls with fingers rather than strong brushing
• Professional or home trimming every 6 to 10 weeks to keep the coat at a functional length

Most Lagotti (plural of Lagotto) are kept in a natural working style trim, where the coat is roughly 3 to 4 centimeters long on the body, slightly longer on the head and ears, and tidied under the belly and around the paws. The eyes should always be kept clear of long hair for comfort and safety.

The goal is not a sculpted or fancy show coat, but a practical, weather resistant layer that allows the dog to move freely in all terrains. When the coat is managed well, the Lagotto Romagnolo is pleasant to live with, relatively clean, and a real delight to look at, with curls that invite gentle hands and curious glances wherever you go.

Temperament & Personality

The Lagotto Romagnolo is often described as happy, sensitive, and highly devoted to its people. At heart, this is a working breed, developed to pay close attention to the handler and to work quietly and persistently in challenging environments. That heritage shines through in daily life. Many Lagotti are quick to form deep bonds with their family and tend to follow their favorite humans from room to room, always ready for the next activity.

With family members, the Lagotto is usually affectionate, playful, and friendly. They enjoy being included in day to day life, whether that means long walks, weekend hikes, or simply keeping you company in the garden. Most are quite expressive, using body language, small sounds, and eye contact to communicate. They can be sensitive to tone of voice, which makes them responsive to gentle guidance but also means they may shut down if treated harshly or unfairly.

Around children, the Lagotto Romagnolo can be a wonderful companion, especially if raised with kids from a young age. Their medium size is a practical advantage, since they are strong enough to keep up with active play, yet not too large to accidentally knock smaller children over. However, like all dogs, they need to be supervised with young children, and children must be taught to treat the dog respectfully. Clear rules, such as no pulling on curls or disturbing the dog while it sleeps or eats, help create a safe and trusting relationship.

With strangers, the breed can show a natural tendency to be reserved or cautious. A well bred and well socialized Lagotto should not be fearful or aggressive, but it is common for them to watch new people from a small distance before deciding to interact. This reserved nature reflects their working background, where calm focus and loyalty to the handler were highly valued traits. Early and positive socialization is therefore very important. Puppies should meet a variety of people, environments, and friendly dogs, always in a way that feels safe and manageable.

With other dogs and household pets, most Lagotti do well, especially if introduced carefully. Many live peacefully with cats and other animals. Some males may show same sex tension if not well socialized, and high energy play can occasionally lead to misunderstandings. As a general rule, their temperament is more cooperative than confrontational. The breed does not typically have a strong hunting drive toward birds or small animals, but individual dogs may show interest, so recall training remains important.

Common challenges with the Lagotto Romagnolo often relate to their intelligence and sensitivity. Without enough mental stimulation, they may become bored and find their own entertainment, such as digging, chewing, or barking at every sound in the home or garden. Separation related issues can also occur if a dog is never taught to be alone for short periods in a gradual and positive way. Because they have a keen sense of hearing and smell, some may react to noises or new scents more quickly than other breeds, which owners sometimes misinterpret as “nervousness,” when in fact it is heightened awareness.

For many families, the Lagotto’s blend of affection, work ethic, and quiet determination creates an engaging, rewarding companion. When their needs for closeness, stimulation, and structure are met, they often grow into steady, reliable dogs that fit well into a wide variety of homes and lifestyles.

Training & Exercise

The Lagotto Romagnolo is a bright, quick learning breed that thrives on cooperation with a trusted handler. Their working history as truffle dogs required careful listening, problem solving, and a strong desire to search. In modern life, this translates into a dog that often loves to train and to be given tasks, both physical and mental.

Training should be based on clear communication and consistent, kind methods. Because Lagotti are sensitive to pressure and tone, they respond especially well to positive reinforcement. Reward based training with treats, toys, and praise is ideal. Harsh corrections, yelling, or unpredictable rules can damage trust and may lead the dog to become insecure or avoidant. Instead, focus on setting the dog up for success, breaking tasks into small steps, and rewarding effort and attention.

Basic obedience is important for every Lagotto. A reliable recall, loose leash walking, and a calm “wait” or “stay” command can make daily life much easier. Since many Lagotti have a natural tendency to use their nose and wander a bit when off leash, early recall training should be a priority. Practice in safe, enclosed areas before trusting your dog in open spaces. Make coming back to you the best and most rewarding choice, rather than something the dog associates with the end of all fun.

For exercise, the Lagotto Romagnolo usually needs a medium to high level of activity. They are not extreme endurance athletes, but they do require more than a short walk around the block. A typical adult Lagotto will enjoy:

• One to two meaningful walks or outings per day, ideally including time to sniff and explore
• Regular opportunities for off leash running in safe areas
• Short training sessions, trick training, or scent games during the week

Many Lagotti excel in dog sports. Agility, rally obedience, obedience, tracking, mantrailing, and nose work are all suitable activities. Their natural scenting ability often makes them enthusiastic participants in search based games. You can hide treats or toys in the garden or house and encourage your dog to “find it,” which closely matches what the breed was originally developed to do.

Mental exercise is just as important as physical exercise for this breed. Food puzzles, slow feeding toys, and simple scent puzzles can keep a Lagotto happily occupied. Five to ten minutes of focused brain work can sometimes tire them out more than a much longer walk. This is particularly useful on very hot or very cold days when outdoor activities might be limited.

Puppies and young dogs should not be over exercised. Their joints and growth plates are still developing, so avoid long runs, steep stairs, or repetitive jumping in the first year. Instead, use short, gentle walks, free play on soft ground, and plenty of rest periods. Meanwhile, you can invest heavily in early training, socialization, and handling exercises, such as getting used to grooming and being touched all over the body.

Overall, a Lagotto that receives a balanced mix of physical activity, mental challenge, and affectionate companionship is usually a calm and pleasant housemate. A bored or under stimulated Lagotto, on the other hand, may become noisy, restless, or creative in ways that are less appreciated, such as digging up your flower beds or reorganizing the furniture with its teeth. Thoughtful training and regular exercise are the keys to unlocking the best side of this intelligent breed.

Health

The Lagotto Romagnolo is generally considered a robust and healthy breed, but like all purebred dogs, it has some known health concerns that responsible breeders and owners should be aware of. Understanding these issues helps in choosing a puppy from health tested parents and in caring for an adult dog throughout its life.

One of the more widely recognized conditions in the breed is hip dysplasia, a developmental disorder where the hip joint does not fit the socket properly. Over time, this can lead to pain, lameness, and arthritis. Reputable breeders screen their breeding dogs with official hip evaluations and aim to produce puppies with a lower risk of joint problems. Elbow dysplasia can occur as well, although it appears to be less commonly reported than hip issues.

Lagotti can also be affected by certain neurological and genetic conditions identified within the population. One example is juvenile epilepsy, sometimes called benign familial juvenile epilepsy, which can cause seizures in young puppies. In many cases, affected puppies improve with age, but the condition is still a serious welfare concern. Genetic testing is available to help breeders avoid producing affected puppies. Another issue seen in some lines is cerebellar ataxia, a disorder that affects coordination and balance. Again, genetic testing and careful selection have greatly reduced the incidence where breeders follow recommended health programs.

Eye health is important in this breed as well. Conditions such as cataracts or other hereditary eye diseases can appear, so eye examinations by a veterinary ophthalmologist are commonly recommended for breeding dogs. Some kennel clubs and breed clubs also encourage testing for patella (kneecap) stability and heart function, depending on local recommendations and breeding regulations.

Typical health tests for the Lagotto Romagnolo often include:

• Hip dysplasia screening
• Elbow dysplasia screening in some breeding programs
• Eye examination, often annually for breeding animals
• Genetic tests for juvenile epilepsy and other identified conditions
• In some cases, patella and cardiac checks

Responsible breeders share test results openly and are happy to explain how they use this information to plan their litters.

The typical lifespan of the Lagotto Romagnolo is around 12 to 15 years, with many dogs remaining active and engaged well into their senior years. Good nutrition, appropriate exercise, weight control, and regular veterinary care all contribute to healthy aging. Like many breeds, Lagotti can develop age related conditions such as arthritis, dental disease, or organ issues, so annual health checks become especially important as the dog grows older.

Owners should watch for signs of pain or discomfort, such as reluctance to jump, stiffness after resting, or changes in behavior. Early intervention with joint supplements, adjusted exercise routines, and veterinary treatment can make a big difference to quality of life.

Because the Lagotto’s dense, curly coat can hide skin problems, regular grooming sessions are also a good opportunity to check the dog’s skin and ears. Moisture trapped under mats can lead to hot spots or skin infections. Ears should be inspected and gently cleaned when needed, since the curly hair inside the ear canal may occasionally contribute to wax buildup or irritation if not managed correctly.

When thoughtfully bred and well cared for, the Lagotto Romagnolo is capable of leading a long, happy, and active life. Prospective owners are encouraged to seek breeders who prioritize health testing, balanced temperament, and overall soundness over mere appearance.

History & Origins

The Lagotto Romagnolo has deep roots in the wetlands and lowlands of northern Italy, particularly in the Romagna region, from which it takes its name. The word “Lagotto” is thought to come from “lagotto” or “lagotti,” local dialect words related to lakes or water, and also used as a nickname for water dogs. This traditional connection helps explain the breed’s original role as a water retriever.

In earlier centuries, long before the Lagotto became famous as a truffle specialist, these dogs worked alongside hunters in the marshes and lagoons. Their dense, curly coats protected them from cold water, while their strong bodies and excellent noses helped them retrieve waterfowl in difficult terrain. They needed to be hardy, willing, and able to work calmly for long periods. At that time, they were valued primarily for their practical usefulness rather than any standardized appearance.

As the landscape changed and many of the wetlands in northern Italy were drained and transformed into farmland, the need for water retrieving dogs declined. Farmers and rural families began to rely on the Lagotto’s remarkable scenting ability for a different kind of work. Italy has a long tradition of truffle hunting, and truffles, the fragrant underground fungi, are highly prized for their culinary value. Lagotti proved exceptionally skilled at locating truffles hidden beneath the soil, often more reliable than pigs, which tend to eat the truffles they find.

Over time, the breed’s role shifted more and more toward specialized truffle hunting. This work required a calm, persistent dog with a close bond to the handler, capable of working quietly and systematically in forests and fields. The Lagotto’s natural inclination to use its nose and its moderate size made it ideal for this purpose. Generations of selection for scenting ability and cooperation with humans helped to refine the breed’s modern character.

By the late twentieth century, dedicated Italian enthusiasts began efforts to preserve and formally recognize the Lagotto Romagnolo as a distinct breed. They worked to establish a consistent type, standardize the coat, and document pedigrees. This effort led to official recognition in Italy and later by international kennel clubs. The breed is now classified as a water dog in many systems, but its reputation as a truffle dog remains a central part of its identity.

Today, while many Lagotti still work as truffle hunters in Italy and other regions, the breed has also found a place as a companion dog and participant in various dog sports. Their intelligence and scenting skills make them suitable for activities such as nose work, tracking, and search games. In some areas, Lagotti also assist in practical search tasks or participate in demonstrations that showcase their truffle hunting roots.

Although the breed’s numbers have grown significantly in recent years, especially across Europe and North America, the Lagotto Romagnolo is still considered relatively uncommon compared to larger international breeds. Breed clubs and fanciers tend to emphasize preservation of working ability alongside health and temperament. The curly coated, friendly Lagotto that many people meet at shows or in parks today is therefore very closely related, in spirit and purpose, to the hardworking dogs that once searched Italian marshes and forests with their handlers.

Living with the Breed

Sharing your home with a Lagotto Romagnolo can be a deeply rewarding experience, but it also brings real responsibilities. This is not a decorative or low maintenance dog. Instead, think of the Lagotto as an energetic, intelligent partner that needs your time, attention, and guidance to thrive.

Daily life with a Lagotto usually involves a combination of physical exercise, mental activity, and family interaction. Many owners find that two meaningful outings per day, plus small training or play sessions, keep their dog content. A simple walk on a short leash with no chance to sniff or explore is rarely enough. They benefit from:

• Off leash time in safe areas
• Scent based games or food searches in the garden or house
• Short training sessions focused on obedience, tricks, or nose work

Inside the home, Lagotti are often calm if their needs have been met, and they tend to enjoy resting close to their people. They are usually not dogs that are happy being left alone for very long hours every day. While most can learn to cope with reasonable alone time, this must be introduced gradually and positively, starting from puppyhood. Owners who work long shifts or are away from home frequently should consider whether they can provide dog walkers, daycare, or other support.

Grooming is a key part of living with this breed. A Lagotto’s coat will not take care of itself. Regular combing, trimming, and occasional bathing are non negotiable. Owners who prefer to groom at home will need appropriate tools, such as:

• A good quality metal comb that reaches right to the skin
• A slicker or pin brush for working through curls gently
• Dog safe shampoo and conditioner suitable for curly coats
• Quality scissors or clippers, or a trusted professional groomer

Most Lagotti benefit from a full groom every couple of months, including body trimming, tidying around feet and sanitary areas, and checking ears and nails. Many owners also keep their Lagotto’s coat shorter for practical reasons, since very long curls can be more prone to tangling and collecting debris.

Financially, prospective owners should plan for regular costs such as quality dog food, annual health checks, vaccinations, grooming, training classes, insurance, toys, and equipment. The first year typically includes higher expenses, such as purchase price, spay or neuter if chosen, basic supplies, and perhaps more training sessions. On an annual basis, grooming alone can represent a notable cost if you use a professional groomer throughout the year.

Useful equipment for Lagotto Romagnolo owners often includes:

• A comfortable, well fitting harness and sturdy leash
• A secure crate or indoor pen for safe resting and alone time training
• Food puzzle toys and scent toys for mental stimulation
• A waterproof or easy to clean bed, especially if your dog likes wet walks
• Towels or drying coats for managing curls after rain or swimming

Because Lagotti are intelligent and socially sensitive, they greatly benefit from consistent rules and routines. Establish household guidelines early, such as where the dog is allowed to go, when feeding times occur, and how interactions with children should work. Gentle, predictable boundaries help a Lagotto feel safe and relaxed.

Potential owners should also be prepared for the breed’s watchful nature. Many Lagotti are naturally alert and may bark to signal unfamiliar sounds or visitors. With training, most can learn to settle and respond to a clear “thank you” cue, but in very noise sensitive environments, such as thin walled apartments, some dogs may find it challenging to relax without dedicated training and management.

In return for this commitment, the Lagotto Romagnolo offers companionship rich in character, humor, and loyalty. They tend to form strong bonds, often choosing a primary person while still being affectionate with the whole family. Their enjoyment of shared activities, combined with their manageable size and generally robust health, makes them a delightful choice for many active homes. For those willing to invest time in grooming, training, and daily engagement, living with a Lagotto can feel less like owning a pet and more like sharing life with a keen, curly coated partner who is always ready for the next adventure.

Characteristics

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the Lagotto Romagnolo originally bred for?

The breed was developed in Italy as a water retriever and later specialized as a truffle-searching dog. Its keen nose, strong work ethic, and weather-resistant coat made it ideal for working in wetlands and fields in a variety of conditions.

Is the Lagotto Romagnolo a good family dog and how does it behave at home?

This breed is typically affectionate, people-oriented, and forms close bonds with its family. At home it is usually calm if given enough physical and mental activity, but it can become vocal, busy, or anxious if under-stimulated or left alone too long.

How much exercise and mental stimulation does a Lagotto Romagnolo need?

Daily moderate to high exercise is important, such as brisk walks, off-leash play in a safe area, or structured activities like nose work. Because of its working background, it also needs regular mental challenges such as scent games, training sessions, or puzzle toys to stay balanced.

Does the Lagotto Romagnolo really not shed and is it suitable for people with allergies?

The coat sheds very little compared with many breeds, and the tight curls tend to trap loose hair. Some people with allergies tolerate them better, but they are not guaranteed to be hypoallergenic and individual reactions vary, so time spent with the breed before committing is important.

How often should a Lagotto Romagnolo be groomed and clipped?

The curly coat needs regular combing to prevent mats, typically at least once or twice a week. Many owners have the coat clipped down to a manageable length several times a year, keeping it natural looking rather than sculpted, and the breed is not usually brushed into a fluffy style.

What health problems are Lagotto Romagnolo dogs prone to?

Known concerns include certain hereditary neurological conditions, hip dysplasia, and some eye diseases. Responsible breeders screen for these issues, and prospective owners should ask about health testing, the longevity of relatives, and any history of seizures or movement disorders in the line.

Are Lagotto Romagnolos easy to train for first-time dog owners?

They are generally intelligent, food-motivated, and responsive to consistent, positive training. However, their sensitivity and high awareness can make them prone to anxiety or reactivity if training is harsh or socialization is neglected, so first-time owners often benefit from guidance from a good trainer.

Do Lagotto Romagnolos like to dig, and can this be managed?

Many individuals have a strong instinct to dig because of their history as truffle hunters. This behavior can often be redirected by providing a designated digging area, using scent games, and ensuring the dog has enough exercise, rather than trying to suppress the instinct entirely.

Can a Lagotto Romagnolo live comfortably in an apartment?

Apartment living can work if the dog receives sufficient outdoor exercise and daily mental enrichment. The breed is usually not suited to a very sedentary lifestyle and may become noisy or restless if its needs to move, sniff, and work with its brain are not met.

How social are Lagotto Romagnolos with strangers and other dogs?

They are often reserved or cautious with new people rather than naturally outgoing, and early, positive socialization is important. With other dogs they can be friendly and playful, but individual temperaments vary, so careful introductions and good manners training are recommended.

Sources

• The Swedish Lagotto Club
• The Norwegian Lagotto Club
• The Kennel Club (UK)
• The Danish Kennel Club
• The Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)