Lagotto Romagnolo

Lagotto Romagnolo 101: Traits, Shedding and Exercise Needs for Busy Families

The Lagotto Romagnolo is a cheerful Italian truffle dog—curly‑coated, affectionate, and highly trainable. Low‑shedding and apartment‑friendly with daily walks, it suits families that enjoy training games and outdoor adventures.

Breed Group
Activity Level
Moderate
Size Category
Medium
Coat Type
Single
Coat Texture
Curly
Activity Level
Moderate
Trainability
Very High
Shedding Level
Minimal
Family Friendly
Yes
Apartment Friendly
Yes
Hypoallergenic
Yes
Breed Type
Purebred
Lagotto Romagnolo sitting on a forest path, full-body portrait with dense curly coat, centered composition

Breed History of the Lagotto Romagnolo

An ancient water retriever from Italy’s Romagna region, the Lagotto shifted to truffle hunting as wetlands declined. Revived in the late 20th century, it is now recognized globally—valued for keen nose, curls, and biddability.

Lagotto Romagnolo Appearance: Size, Coat & Distinctive Features

Balanced and true to type with hallmark features.

  • Weight: 24–35 lb (11–16 kg)
  • Height: 16–19 in (41–48 cm)
  • Coat type: Dense, curly single coat (low‑shedding)
  • Coat colors: Off‑white, brown, orange; roan patterns; with or without white
  • Distinctive traits: Compact, square build; abundant curls; round eyes; lively expression

How to Groom a Lagotto Romagnolo: Coat Care & Maintenance

Curls require routine shaping to avoid mats.

  • Brushing/Combing: 2–3×/week; detangle carefully.
  • Trimming: Regular shaping to maintain functional length.
  • Bathing: Every 4–6 weeks; dry thoroughly into curls.

Lagotto Romagnolo Exercise Needs: Daily Activity & Playtime Tips

Moderate daily needs with plenty of nosework.

  • Daily duration: 45–60 minutes.
  • Activities: Scent games, retrieving, hiking, agility.

Training a Lagotto Romagnolo: Behavior, Commands & Socialization

Bright and eager—positive, varied training excels.

  • Focus areas: Recall, impulse control, trick training.

Lagotto Romagnolo Diet: Feeding Schedule & Nutrition Tips

Balanced diet to support an athletic, curly‑coated body.

  • Quantity: ~2–3 cups/day in 2 meals; adjust to activity.

Lagotto Romagnolo Health Issues: Common Problems & Lifespan

Choose breeders who screen for hips, eyes, and neurological conditions (e.g., JE/DE).

  • Orthopedic: Hip screening recommended.
  • Eyes: Screening recommended.
  • Life expectancy: 13–15 years.

Where to Adopt or Find Lagotto Romagnolo Puppies in Canada

Partner with breed‑club breeders; consider poodle‑type rescues for similar needs.

  • Breeders: Club referrals; verify hips/eyes and genetic tests.
  • Rescue: Lagotto and poodle‑type networks.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Lagotto Romagnolo

Are Lagotti hypoallergenic?
No dog is truly hypoallergenic, but Lagotti are often low‑shedding and tolerated better.

Apartment‑friendly?
Yes—with daily walks and enrichment.

Do they need grooming?
Yes—regular trims and detangling to prevent mats.

How trainable?
Very High—responsive and enthusiastic.

Good with kids?
Generally affectionate; supervise as with any breed.

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Lagotto Romagnolo sitting on a forest path, full-body portrait with dense curly coat, centered composition
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