Lagotto Romagnolo

Description

The Lagotto Romagnolo is an ancient and versatile dog breed that originates from the Romagna region of Italy. Initially bred as a water retriever and hunting dog, it has a rich history that dates back over a thousand years. The Lagotto Romagnolo was originally used for retrieving waterfowl in marshy areas, but over time, it gained recognition for its exceptional skills in truffle hunting. Today, it is widely known for being an outstanding truffle dog, able to detect the prized underground fungi with remarkable accuracy.

Physically, the Lagotto Romagnolo is a medium-sized dog, with a compact and sturdy build. It typically stands around 16 to 19 inches at the shoulder and weighs between 24 to 35 pounds. One of its most distinctive features is its curly, dense coat, which is water-resistant and requires regular grooming to prevent matting. The coat, which can be an array of colors such as white, brown, orange, or a combination, gives the Lagotto a soft, almost poodle-like appearance. Despite its fluffy, curly coat, the Lagotto is a very active and energetic breed, well-suited for a variety of outdoor activities, including its famous truffle hunts.

Temperamentally, the Lagotto Romagnolo is known for its affectionate, friendly, and intelligent nature. It is a highly trainable dog, eager to please its owner, and forms strong bonds with its family. The breed is typically good with children, making it an excellent family companion, and it is often described as playful and social. While they are gentle and loving with their family, Lagottos are also known for being alert and can make good watchdogs. They enjoy staying active and require regular exercise to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. Without sufficient activity, the Lagotto can become bored and may exhibit undesirable behaviors.

Truffle hunting is one of the Lagotto Romagnolo's most famous roles. The breed has an exceptional sense of smell, which is fine-tuned for locating truffles buried deep in the soil. Historically, the Lagotto was used in the marshlands of Italy to retrieve waterfowl, but its truffle-hunting abilities became highly prized over time. Today, many Lagottos are still employed for this purpose, working alongside professional truffle hunters in Italy and other countries known for their truffle production. The dog’s keen nose, combined with its determination and energy, makes it an invaluable partner for truffle hunters.

In summary, the Lagotto Romagnolo is a versatile and affectionate dog with a rich history as both a water retriever and a truffle hunter. Its unique curly coat, intelligent and friendly personality, and strong work ethic make it an excellent companion for active families and individuals alike. Whether as a truffle hunter or a family pet, the Lagotto Romagnolo continues to thrive in its role as a loyal and skilled working dog.

History

The Lagotto Romagnolo is an ancient Italian breed with a rich history that dates back to the marshlands of the Romagna region in northeastern Italy. Its name, derived from the Italian words *lago* (lake) and *cane da lagotto* (lake dog), reflects its original role as a water retriever. The breed was developed to retrieve waterfowl for hunters, excelling in its role due to its dense, waterproof coat, keen sense of smell, and strong work ethic. Historical references to dogs resembling the Lagotto Romagnolo can be found as early as the Renaissance, depicted in art and described in texts from the time.

As the marshlands of Romagna were drained in the 19th century to make way for agriculture, the Lagotto’s role as a water retriever became obsolete. However, the breed’s exceptional olfactory abilities made it well-suited for a new task: truffle hunting. Farmers and truffle hunters recognized the Lagotto’s potential and began training it to locate these valuable fungi. Over time, the breed transitioned into its specialized role as the premier truffle-hunting dog, a position it still holds today.

Despite its usefulness, the Lagotto Romagnolo faced a decline in the mid-20th century due to modernization and changes in rural lifestyles. Efforts to preserve and promote the breed began in the 1970s, led by dedicated Italian breeders who sought to maintain its traditional traits and working abilities. The breed was officially recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) in 1995 and later by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 2015.

Today, the Lagotto Romagnolo is celebrated not only for its truffle-hunting prowess but also as a loving and intelligent companion. Its hypoallergenic, curly coat and friendly demeanor have made it a popular choice for families and dog enthusiasts worldwide. The breed’s history reflects its adaptability and resilience, transitioning from a water dog to a truffle hunter while retaining its status as a cherished part of Italian heritage.

Colors

•  Brown
•  Brown Roan
•  Off White
•  Off White Roan
•  Off-White
•  Orange
•  Orange Roan
•  Sable
•  White
•  White Roan
•  White w/ Brown
•  White w/ Orange