Lagotto Romagnolo: The Italian Pride of Canine Breeding

The Lagotto Romagnolo is the Italian pride of dog breeding: the only breed in the world specifically selected for truffle hunting. With its curly coat resembling that of a lamb, a remarkable nose, and a sweet character, it’s love at first sight.

Origins

Originating from the valleys of Comacchio and Romagna, where it was a water retrieval dog (hence "lagotto," meaning "lake dog"). When the valleys were drained in the 19th century, it was repurposed for white truffle hunting, a role it still fulfills today.

Appearance

  • Height: 41-48 cm at the shoulder.
  • Weight: 11-16 kg.
  • Coat: tightly curled, dense, woolly. Colors: white, white/brown, brown, roan.
  • Life Expectancy: 14-17 years.

Character

  • Sense of Smell: among the best in the world, exceptional for truffles.
  • Affectionate: very sweet, deeply attached to family.
  • Intelligent: learns quickly.
  • Balanced: stable, not nervous.
  • With Children: excellent, patient, and playful.
  • With Other Animals: easily adaptable.

Requirements

  • Exercise: moderate. Enjoys scent-based games.
  • Mental Stimulation: essential. Loves nose work.
  • Space: adapts to apartments if well stimulated.
  • Grooming: important. The coat needs to be trimmed regularly (every 3-4 months) and brushed frequently to avoid mats.

Training

An extremely cooperative breed. Learns rapidly and loves to please. Perfect for truffle hunting, but also suitable for agility, obedience, and therapy dog activities.

Truffle Hunting

Even without truffles, you can utilize its nose with scent-based games at home or in the garden: hide a treat and let it "work." It will have a blast.

Health

Generally a healthy breed. Predispositions: young epilepsy (specific lines), hip dysplasia. Serious breeders conduct genetic testing.

Price

Pedigree puppy: €1,200-2,000. Working lines for truffles can cost more.

What to Bring Home

The Lagotto Romagnolo is a small Italian masterpiece: sweet, intelligent, healthy, perfect for active families who love nature and scent games. A breed that won’t disappoint.