LAGOTTO ROMAGNOLO DOG BREED

Description:

Originating from the Romagna sub-region of Italy, the Lagotto Romagnolo was originally used as a gundog and a water retriever. Today, this breed is highly prized for its ability to hunt for truffles. As a matter of fact, the Lagotto is the only thoroughbred breed used for this purpose. The Lagotto Romagnolo was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2015.

Height: 16-19 inches  Weight: 24-35 pounds  Lifespan: 15-17 years

Characteristics:

The Lagotto Romagnolo is a compactly-built stocky dog, small or medium in size. He is well-proportioned, powerful and possesses great endurance. This dog has extraordinarily keen sense of smell. Comparable Breeds : Poodle, Portuguese Water Dog.

Character:

Faithful and devoted to his master, the Lagotto Romagnolo is a wonderful companion. This dog breed is great with other dogs and pets, provided that they grew up in the same house. The Lagotto loves children, and he gets very attached to every single member of the family. He is attentive, cheerful, intelligent and very affectionate. Nevertheless, this is a very alert dog which will warn you about the possible danger.

Coat / Care:

This breed is decorated with thick curls, wooly in texture. The undercoat is waterproof. Lagottos are considered to be hypoallergenic, since they’re very low shedders. The coat coloration includes: solid white, white with brown or orange patches, brown roan, different shades of solid or orange. In order to prevent the tangling, these dogs require thorough combing on every day basis. Also, the coat should be clipped at least twice a year. Bathing is allowed only in case of urgent need.

Health Problems:

The Lagotto Romagnolo is generally healthy dog breed, but like all breeds, they can be prone to hip dysplasia, cerebral anomaly and epilepsy. The Lagotto Romagnolo has a life expectancy of 15 to 17 years.

Weight / Height

The male Lagotto Romagnolo dog breed’s height is around 17 – 19 inches and weighs around 28.5 and 35 pounds. Female Lagotto Romagnolo dogs can reach a size from 16 – 18 inches and weighs between 24 and 31 pounds.

Training:

The Lagotto Romagnolo is a very smart dog that is eager to learn. Early socialization and the course of general training are recommended. Do not use harsh or heavy-handed methods. In fact, the training should be based on positive reinforcement, fairness, patience and consistency.

Activity:

This breed is not suitable for living in a city apartment. Also, he is not suitable for inexperienced and inactive dog breeders. In order to stay healthy and fit, Lagottos need a significant amount of physical activity and mental stimulation. Therefore, these dogs thrive in a small rural farm. If left neglected, the Lagotto Romagnolo can become frustrated and destructive.

Photo credit: Alberto Ziveri/Flickr