Lagotto Romagnolo
Description
Ever wonder why the Lagotto Romagnolo looks like a teddy bear with curls? This ancient Italian breed was originally a water retriever, working in marshlands near lakes. Its name even comes from "Lago," the Italian word for lake. But when the marshes dried up, the Lagotto found a new calling: hunting truffles underground. It's the only breed officially recognized for this rare skill. Lagottos are clever and lively dogs that thrive on challenges. They’re friendly and make great family companions, but they need plenty of mental and physical activity to stay content. Without it, they can get bored and cause trouble. Their curly, woolly coat comes in shades of brown, orange, white, and roan, often with charming markings. Isn’t it amazing how a dog can be both a skilled hunter and a lovable pet?
Grooming
The Lagotto’s medium-length double coat is curly and dense, designed to protect them from water and rough terrain. It sheds heavily during spring and fall, so brushing three times a week is a must. During shedding seasons, increase brushing and use an undercoat rake to remove dead hair effectively. Bathing every 4 to 6 weeks helps keep the coat clean and healthy, and blow-drying after baths is key to reducing shedding. • Brush 3× weekly; more in shedding seasons • Use an undercoat rake to clear dead hair • Bathe every 4–6 weeks; blow-dry thoroughly • Check for matting around ears and legs • Trim hair around eyes for clear vision Pro tip: Regular de-shedding with a blow dryer every 4–6 weeks keeps curls fluffy and manageable. Lagotto coats come in various colors like brown roan and orange markings, so keep an eye out for stain-prone white patches and clean gently to maintain brightness.
Learn the Double routine:
→ Complete Double Grooming Guide
Walking
How much exercise does a Lagotto really need? Plan on about 70 minutes of walking daily, split into two sessions. This breed loves exploring scents and solving puzzles on the go, so mix in some sniff breaks or light training during walks to keep their minds sharp. A good routine might look like this: a 35-minute morning walk with some scent games in the park, then a 35-minute evening stroll around the neighborhood with basic obedience practice. This keeps them physically fit and mentally stimulated without overdoing it. Lagottos can be quite focused on their noses, so a leash is essential to keep them safe during outdoor adventures.
Boarding
When boarding a Lagotto Romagnolo, a crate size of 36 to 42 inches is ideal to give them enough room to stretch comfortably. These dogs enjoy active play, so staff should plan at least two energetic play sessions daily, combined with scent or brain games to engage their sharp minds. Lagottos thrive on mental challenges, so enrichment activities like puzzle feeders or hide-and-seek scent games help prevent boredom. Staff should note this breed’s friendly nature but also their need for consistent interaction and exercise. A calm, structured environment with plenty of stimulation makes boarding a positive experience for this unique truffle hunter.