Lagotto Romagnolo

The Lagotto Romagnolo is a medium-sized, sturdy dog with a square-shaped build and a distinctive curly coat that covers the entire body. Its head is broad with a slight stop, and the round, expressive eyes give it a bright, friendly expression. The ears are medium-sized, triangular, and hang close to the sides of the head. One of the most striking features is its dense, woolly coat made up of tight curls, similar to a sheep’s fleece. This coat offers excellent protection against moisture and cold a trait inherited from its origins as a water dog. Coat colours range from solid white to brown, orange or roan, with or without markings. The tail is thick at the base, carried low at rest and cheerfully raised when active.

The Lagotto Romagnolo has a relatively high need for both physical and mental activity. This breed loves walking, playing, and especially scent work an area in which it excels due to its outstanding sense of smell. At least an hour of active exercise per day is recommended, preferably spread over multiple sessions. In addition to walks, the Lagotto , enjoys brain games, obedience training, and scent-based enrichment like snuffle mats. It also performs very well in dog sports such as tracking and agility. A well-stimulated Lagotto is happy and balanced. Without enough stimulation, it may become bored, leading to undesirable behaviour.

The Lagotto Romagnolo needs regular grooming due to its unique coat. While its dense, curly coat tends to mat less than expected, it should still be brushed weekly and trimmed regularly to prevent tangles and matting. A few grooming sessions a year help keep the coat airy and tidy. The ears are prone to collecting dirt and moisture, so routine checking and cleaning are important to prevent infections. The eyes, nails, and teeth also require regular care. With proper maintenance, the Lagotto remains healthy, comfortable, and well-groomed.

The Lagotto Romagnolo is generally a healthy breed, but like many pedigree dogs, it can be prone to certain hereditary conditions. Hip dysplasia is one of the more well-known issues, potentially causing pain and mobility problems. Patellar luxation when the kneecap slips out of place is another condition seen in the breed. Eye conditions such as progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), which causes gradual vision loss and eventual blindness, have also been reported. Additionally, juvenile epilepsy is a condition specific to the Lagotto and can appear at a young age, although symptoms often disappear with age. Regular veterinary check-ups and responsible breeding practices, including health testing, help reduce these risks.

Breeds that are similar to the Lagotto Romagnolo in both appearance and character include:

• Medium-sized Poodle: Like the Lagotto, this breed has a curly, non-shedding coat and is highly intelligent, energetic, eager to learn, and social.
• Barbet: A French water dog with a similar build and curly coat, known for its gentle nature and strong working drive.
• Spanish Water Dog: An active and obedient breed used for scent work and tasks requiring teamwork, sharing many physical and behavioural traits with the Lagotto.