Lagotto Romagnola (Italian Water Dog)

The Italian Water Dog, also called the Lagotto Romagnolo, is a rare breed with a fascinating past. This dog, who was first bred to hunt waterfowl, has developed into a devoted friend and expert truffle hunter.

The Lagotto Romagnolo is a great option for allergy-stricken families because of its hypoallergenic nature and unique appearance due to its curly coat. This breed is well-known for being intelligent, playful, and loving, which makes it a wonderful family companion.

Lagottos are very trainable and enjoy keeping themselves occupied, whether it’s playing outside or picking up new skills. They grow close to their families and flourish in settings that provide them with plenty of mental and physical stimulation.

Characteristic	Description
Origin	Italy
Size	Medium-sized, typically 16-19 inches in height
Weight	Ranges between 24-35 pounds
Coat	Thick, curly, and waterproof
Temperament	Friendly, intelligent, and easy to train
Life Expectancy	12-14 years
Exercise Needs	High, enjoys swimming and outdoor activities
Good with Children	Yes, they are gentle and affectionate
Common Health Issues	Hip dysplasia and eye conditions

Information about the breed

Name:	Lagotto Romagnola (Italian Water Dog)
Classification:	Retriever, Spaniel and Water Dog (298)
Purpose:	truffle hunting
Native Country:	Italy
Weight:	~13-16 kg (male), ~11-14 kg (female)
Height:	~46-49 cm (male), ~43-46 cm (female)
Life:	15-17 years
Color:	from dark brown to white, white with red and brown spots
Price:	758-1082$

Photo of Lagotto Romagnola

Characteristics

The Lagotto Romagnola, or Italian Water Dog, is a multipurpose breed renowned for its cunning truffle hunter and amiable disposition. This curly-coated dog is ideal for active families because it was originally bred for retrieving game from water. Its high energy level and keen sense of smell make it an excellent choice. Though frequent grooming is necessary, its non-shedding coat and loving, devoted temperament make it an excellent companion for anyone with allergies. The Lagotto makes an excellent working dog as well as a loyal pet because it thrives on both physical and mental stimulation.

Interesting facts and characteristics

• Sociable, friendly and active;
• Does not like to be alone for a long time;
• Gets along with children and other dogs;
• Is distinguished by its zeal for learning;
• Swims well and even dives;
• Can search for mushrooms;
• Suitable for sports and owners without experience.

History of origin

There is a theory regarding the Lagotto Romagnolo’s origins that suggests it shares roots with the peat dog. However, there are still questions about this guess.

Essays from the 17th century that describe a happy, curly dog that resembles an Italian water dog demonstrate how old the breed is. It hunted waterfowl and guarded sailing ships in Italy in the past.

In 1988, the first Lagotto club opened in its native country, and by 1991, it had gained recognition across borders.

Appearance

The Lagotto Romagnolo’s head is somewhat longer than the muzzle and is rather small, shaped like a trapezoid. The nose and forehead are barely distinguishable from one another, and the skull is broad. Strong teeth and powerful jaws that close in a scissor bite. Medium hanging triangular ears with rounded tips. The eyes are big, round, and have a chocolate hue.

The body has the right proportions and is robust. The back is straight and features a protruding loin, a slightly sloping croup, a narrow chest in front and a wide chest at the back. The legs are parallel to one another and straight.

The coat has medium length, curls, and is thick. Water can be repelled by the thick undercoat. The hue ranges from white to a dark brown, or white with hints of red or chocolate. Depending on the primary color, there is typically a light or dark mask on the muzzle.

Character

Lagotto Romagnola stands out for being a friendly and tranquil town. She also has excellent potential, works extremely hard, and handles her work flawlessly.

She is devoted to her owner and will not put up with being alone for an extended period of time. Take a closer look at a different breed if you spend more time at work than at home. She is happy to participate in conversations with other members of the household and treats them with great respect and tenderness; however, she will run to the owner if he calls. She will always be the primary figure.

She plays with them, interacts with them sensitively, and can even be a nanny. However, she has a mistrust or lack of interest in strangers. She is prepared to alert the owner if there is any danger.

The Lagotto Romagnola has nothing to do with anger or cowardice. If your dog exhibits these characteristics, it probably has a serious flaw.

She handles animals in a unique way. Gets along well with dogs but might not understand a cat. However, there’s a greater chance of friendship if they were close growing up.

Education and training

The Italian water dog is a highly intelligent, competent, and—above all—lovely learner. It picks up new commands quickly. Just two or three repetitions are sufficient. However, the owner’s appreciation will mean more to you than the world’s tastiest dessert.

The Lagotto is completely focused on the task at hand during the lesson; it is not drawn away by interesting smells or background noise. However, creating training in the style of a game is ideal. Give the pet affectionate words of praise for all of its efforts. And never yell or use physical force.

Note that truffles can be found with the Lagotto Romagnola down to a depth of 50–60 cm. which, in its native country today, it does frequently. And its forebears possessed the instincts of a waterfowl hunter and a guard. Even now, the breed can still dive and swim well. As its abilities grow, it will be able to take care of property or hunt.

Care

The Lagotto Romagnolo has the option of residing in an apartment or a house. The important thing is to remember to go for walks with activities two or three times a day.

Otherwise, this dog’s care is very easy; even a novice can manage it. A few times a week, the coat needs to be combed. The Italian is chopped at the same frequency, but once a year. You can perform this bald in the summer. Twice a month, take a bath.

Ears are examined once or twice a week, and they are cleaned of sulfur. Cotton pads and a specific lotion are appropriate for this. It is preferable to have daily eye exams.

A clean cloth can be used to remove dirt, and occasionally tea leaves or chamomile infusion can be used as a wash. Speak with a veterinarian if you observe any redness, discharge, or odor.

You need to buy a brush and dog toothpaste in order to brush your dog’s teeth. Start the procedure when the dog is young and repeat it once or twice a week. Claws can be cut once every two to three months.

Nutrition

Natural products or dry food are your options. Purchase a premium class in the first option, and discuss the composition with a veterinarian.

Lean meat, offal, boneless sea fish, cereals (rice, buckwheat, oatmeal), low-fat dairy products, fruits, and vegetables are examples of natural foods. However, this Lagotto Romagnolo is insufficient; supplement with mineral and vitamin complexes twice a year.

Health

Though robust, the Italian Water Dog is susceptible to certain hereditary illnesses:

1. Epilepsy;
2. Cataracts;
3. Joint dysplasia;
4. Incorrect bite.

Choosing a puppy

Keep in mind that it is regarded as a rare breed in Russia. Purchasing a Lagotto Romagnolo from a reputable nursery or breeders is the best option. You run the risk of purchasing a mongrel or a puppy with a disease if you follow your gut feeling and search for a dog online or at the market.

Here are a few more helpful pointers:

1. The ideal age of a puppy for purchase is 2.5 months;
2. Find out more about the baby"s parents – how old they are, how many births the mother has had, what illnesses they have had, their character and achievements;
3. Pay attention to the conditions of the nursery. If you see that it is cold, dirty, cramped, and the puppy is not fed well – choose another one;
4. Choose an active, playful and sociable Lagotto. If you notice aggression, lethargy, signs of illness, then it is better to take a closer look at another baby;
5. Assess the puppy"s appearance according to the standard. A very small one has noticeable curls all over its body. Sometimes it happens that they are not very noticeable, then, most likely, it is a Spanish, not an Italian water dog;
6. The breeder should easily answer your questions, explain the rules for feeding and caring for the puppy, provide all the documents – pedigree, passport, vaccinations by age. Also ask to show the results of tests for genetic diseases.

How much does a Lagotto Romagnolo puppy cost?

A Lagotto Romagnolo puppy is expected to cost between 70,000 and 100,000 rubles.

With its distinctive features and lengthy history, the Lagotto Romagnolo is a devoted and diligent friend. These canines, who are prized for their intelligence and loving disposition, are perfect for energetic families because of their propensity for finding truffles and their endless energy.

The Lagotto Romagnolo is a good option for homes seeking a hypoallergenic pet because of their low shedding levels, even though their curly coats may require some extra grooming. They create close relationships with their owners and get along with kids and other animals when given the proper training and socialization.

In the end, the Lagotto Romagnolo is a happy, industrious, and adaptable dog that brightens any household. This Italian breed provides the best of both worlds, whether you’re looking for a playful companion or an expert worker.

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Lagotto Romagnolo (Italian water dog)