Lagotto Romagnolo: The Intelligent and Curly-Coated Truffle Hunting Dog

Overview

• Height: 16–19 inches
• Weight: 24–35 pounds
• Coat: Dense, Curly, Woolly Coat
• Colors: Off-White, Brown, Orange, Roan, or Combinations
• Life Expectancy: 15–17 years
• Temperament: Affectionate, Intelligent, Alert, Energetic
• AKC Group: Sporting Group

🐾 Quick Facts About the Lagotto Romagnolo

• Energy Level: Moderate to High — Lagotto Romagnolos are active and intelligent dogs that need regular exercise and mental stimulation.
• Grooming Needs: High — Their dense curly coat requires regular trimming and brushing to prevent mats.
• Good With Kids: Yes — Lagotto Romagnolos are typically affectionate, playful, and loyal with families and children.
• Trainability: High — Intelligent and eager to work, they respond very well to positive reinforcement training.
• Barking Level: Moderate — Lagotto Romagnolos may bark to alert their family or express excitement during activity.

Health Overview & Testing

The Lagotto Romagnolo is an intelligent, energetic, and highly trainable sporting breed known for its dense curly coat, strong scenting ability, and affectionate personality. Originally developed in Italy as a water retriever and later refined as a truffle-hunting dog, the Lagotto Romagnolo is generally considered a hardy and capable working breed, but like many active sporting dogs, it can still be prone to several inherited and structural health concerns. Understanding common Lagotto Romagnolo health problems and recommended breeder health testing can help puppy buyers make more informed decisions when selecting a healthy puppy. Because this breed combines athletic movement, strong work drive, intelligence, and moderate endurance, maintaining healthy joints, neurological wellness, eye health, mobility, and overall body condition is especially important throughout the dog’s life.

Health issues sometimes seen in Lagotto Romagnolos may include hip dysplasia, juvenile epilepsy, benign familial juvenile epilepsy (BFJE), cerebellar abiotrophy, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), storage disease, and age-related arthritis. Some individuals may also develop allergies, cruciate ligament injuries, obesity-related orthopedic stress, or hereditary eye concerns later in life. Because the breed is naturally active and highly intelligent, maintaining proper conditioning and regular mental stimulation is especially important for supporting long-term orthopedic wellness and emotional balance. While not every Lagotto Romagnolo will develop these conditions, understanding the breed’s health tendencies allows owners to make better long-term decisions regarding breeding, exercise, grooming, nutrition, and preventive veterinary care.

Health Testing & Responsible Breeding

Responsible Lagotto Romagnolo breeders should perform appropriate health screenings before breeding in order to reduce the likelihood of inherited conditions being passed to future generations. Many puppy buyers are encouraged to ask about health testing, but they are often unsure which evaluations are most important for this breed. In the Lagotto Romagnolo, careful attention to orthopedic, neurological, eye, and overall structural health is especially valuable.

Buyers should ask whether the sire and dam have completed OFA or PennHIP hip evaluations, ophthalmologist-performed eye examinations, and genetic testing for disorders such as BFJE, Lagotto storage disease, and cerebellar abiotrophy when appropriate. Responsible breeders may also discuss orthopedic longevity, temperament stability, working soundness, scenting ability, and overall lifespan within their bloodlines. Some breeders may additionally monitor for hereditary immune-related or dermatological concerns depending on pedigree history.

Unlike some breeds selected primarily for appearance alone, responsible Lagotto Romagnolo breeding programs often place strong emphasis on athletic soundness, stable temperament, and working ability because the breed was developed for physically demanding field work and scent-based tasks. Ethical breeders understand that preserving the Lagotto Romagnolo involves much more than maintaining coat texture or appearance — it also includes protecting healthy movement, emotional stability, neurological wellness, and long-term vitality.

Before Lagotto Romagnolo puppies are placed into new homes, they should receive a complete veterinary wellness examination that evaluates the heart, eyes, joints, neurological responses, bite alignment, parasite status, overall structure, and general physical development. Because active sporting breeds place stress on developing bones and joints during growth, proper nutrition and carefully managed exercise during puppyhood are especially important. Puppies should also leave with age-appropriate vaccinations, deworming records, feeding guidance, and recommendations for safe socialization, grooming, and physical conditioning during development.

A responsible Lagotto Romagnolo breeder should willingly provide documentation of completed health clearances and openly discuss inherited health concerns affecting the breed. Puppy buyers should be cautious of breeders who avoid health discussions, refuse to provide testing information, or claim their dogs are completely free of health problems. Ethical breeding focuses on reducing inherited risk through careful selection, health screening, pedigree knowledge, and lifelong breeder support rather than making unrealistic promises.

Preventive Care & Long-Term Wellness

Maintaining healthy body condition and regular exercise is especially important for the Lagotto Romagnolo because this breed is naturally energetic, athletic, and mentally active. Without sufficient physical activity and mental stimulation, some individuals may become anxious, vocal, destructive, or emotionally frustrated. Regular exercise helps support cardiovascular fitness, muscle tone, coordination, joint stability, and emotional well-being throughout life.

The Lagotto Romagnolo is also an extremely intelligent and highly trainable breed that benefits from regular mental stimulation and structured interaction. Scent games, obedience work, puzzle toys, truffle-search activities, agility, hiking, and interactive play all contribute to emotional balance and long-term wellness.

The breed’s dense curly coat requires regular brushing and grooming maintenance to help prevent mats and maintain healthy skin and coat condition. Grooming sessions also provide an excellent opportunity to monitor for parasites, skin irritation, lumps, coat-quality changes, or developing health concerns.

Because some Lagotto Romagnolos may be somewhat sensitive or emotionally responsive, early socialization and confidence-building experiences are especially important for supporting long-term emotional stability.

Routine veterinary examinations throughout adulthood and senior years remain important for monitoring mobility, orthopedic wellness, neurological health, eye condition, skin health, and overall quality of life. Early detection of developing health concerns often allows for more successful long-term management and improved outcomes.

Lifespan & Senior Lagotto Romagnolo Care

The Lagotto Romagnolo often lives approximately 13 to 17 years when responsibly bred and properly cared for. Senior Lagotto Romagnolos may gradually develop arthritis, reduced stamina, hearing decline, vision changes, muscle loss, or decreased mobility as they age. Some older dogs may also become more prone to orthopedic stiffness or sensory decline during the senior years.

As Lagotto Romagnolos enter their senior years, many owners focus on maintaining moderate low-impact exercise, healthy weight management, supportive bedding, joint support, continued mental stimulation, and routine wellness monitoring. Because the breed often remains mentally active and emotionally connected throughout life, continued companionship and purposeful activity remain especially important even during old age.

With attentive care, preventive veterinary support, responsible breeding, and a healthy lifestyle, many Lagotto Romagnolos continue to thrive as affectionate, energetic, and highly devoted companions throughout their lives.

Is This Breed Right for You?

The Lagotto Romagnolo is an intelligent, energetic, and highly affectionate sporting breed known for its trainability, scenting ability, and strong bond with its family. Originally developed for retrieving and truffle hunting, the Lagotto Romagnolo thrives when given exercise, companionship, structure, and opportunities to stay mentally and physically engaged.

While loving and adaptable, the Lagotto Romagnolo is not the ideal fit for every household. Here’s a quick overview to help you decide:

✔ Ideal for:

• Active owners who enjoy training and outdoor activities
• Families seeking an affectionate and interactive companion
• People able to provide regular exercise and mental stimulation
• Owners interested in scent work, obedience, or canine sports
• Homes willing to provide grooming and companionship

❌ Not Ideal for:

• People unable to provide regular exercise and engagement
• Homes where the dog will frequently be isolated or inactive
• Owners seeking a low-energy or highly independent dog
• People unprepared for grooming maintenance
• Homes unable to provide training and mental stimulation

Finding a Responsible Breeder or Rescue

If you’re interested in bringing a dog of this breed into your home, consider adopting from a rescue organization or finding a reputable breeder.

Find a Reliable Rescue:

Read our page about how to adopt from a reliable dog rescue.

Find reliable rescues through our Dog Rescue Directory.

Find a Responsible Breeder:

Read our information page about buying a healthy puppy from a responsible breeder.

Find responsible breeders through our Dog Breeders Directory.

Puppy Considerations

Lagotto Romagnolo puppies are playful, intelligent, and highly curious from an early age. Early socialization and positive reinforcement training are extremely important to help puppies develop confidence, emotional stability, and appropriate behavior.

Because these puppies mature into active and highly trainable working dogs, early structure and healthy outlets for their energy are especially important. Their scenting instincts, curiosity, and eagerness to interact with people often become obvious very early in development.

Puppies benefit from:

• Early socialization with people, dogs, sounds, and environments
• Positive reinforcement training and structured routines
• Daily exercise and mentally stimulating activities
• Scent games, confidence-building exercises, and interactive play
• Regular grooming handling and coat-care routines

Because Lagotto Romagnolo puppies are highly intelligent and emotionally responsive, calm leadership and consistent training are especially important during development.

Living With a Lagotto Romagnolo

Living with a Lagotto Romagnolo is often rewarding for owners who appreciate affectionate, energetic, and highly interactive companion dogs. These dogs generally form strong bonds with their families and often enjoy participating in outdoor adventures and active daily routines.

The Lagotto Romagnolo requires regular physical exercise and mental stimulation to remain healthy and emotionally balanced. Many enjoy scent games, obedience work, hiking, puzzle toys, agility, and interactive play with their families.

This breed generally does best in homes where it receives companionship, structure, training, and opportunities to stay mentally occupied. Without enough engagement or exercise, boredom may lead to excessive barking, anxiety, destructive behavior, or emotional frustration.

Although affectionate and social with family members, Lagotto Romagnolos may naturally be somewhat cautious around unfamiliar people or environments. Early socialization and responsible ownership are important for helping the breed develop into a confident and stable adult.

Feeding a balanced, high-quality diet and maintaining a healthy weight are important for supporting endurance, mobility, muscle condition, orthopedic wellness, and overall quality of life. Routine veterinary care, exercise, training, grooming, and companionship all contribute to helping the breed thrive.

Final Thoughts…

The Lagotto Romagnolo is an affectionate, intelligent, and deeply loyal sporting breed that thrives with owners who appreciate active companionship and strong emotional connection. Their trainability, scenting ability, and cheerful personality make them remarkable companions in the right homes.

With proper exercise, preventive care, socialization, training, grooming, and companionship, the Lagotto Romagnolo can become a deeply rewarding and highly devoted lifelong companion.

Are you considering adding a Lagotto Romagnolo to your family?

🐶 Lagotto Romagnolo FAQs

What is the Lagotto Romagnolo used for?
The Lagotto Romagnolo is best known as a truffle-hunting dog with an exceptional sense of smell.

Does the Lagotto Romagnolo shed?
The Lagotto Romagnolo sheds very little but requires regular grooming to prevent matting.

Is the Lagotto Romagnolo easy to train?
Yes, the Lagotto Romagnolo is intelligent and eager to learn, but it needs consistent engagement.

Is this breed good with families?
Yes, the Lagotto Romagnolo is typically affectionate and bonds closely with its family.

Similar Breeds You Might Like

• Barbet – A curly-coated water dog with similar working roots

• Portuguese Water Dog – An active, intelligent water breed

• Poodle – A highly trainable breed with a similar coat type

🐾 Lisa’s Picks for Lagotto Romagnolos

As someone who has worked with dogs for over 50 years—including more than 20 years helping with housebreaking and everyday care—I’m often asked for product recommendations. I’ve found that a few simple items can make a big difference in a dog’s comfort and daily routine.

If you have a Lagotto Romagnolo or are planning to bring one into your home, these products and tips can help support your journey together.

🛏️ 1. Dog Beds

👉 My Tip:  Waterproof Bed Protection (My Personal Favorite Trick)

One thing I personally do is use twin-size waterproof mattress covers over larger dog beds. They’re easy to wash, protect the bed beneath, and save money long-term—especially helpful for puppies, seniors, or heavy shedders. You can find different colors and patterns that fit your decor.

For tiny dog beds, you can use waterproof pillow covers that fit over the beds to protect them and save money long-term.

I use the same idea around the house, too. Washable, waterproof couch covers are a simple way to protect furniture from dirt, shedding, and accidents—especially helpful with puppies, seniors, or dogs that love the couch.

* Orthopedic Foam Dog Beds:
A high-quality orthopedic bed is one of the best investments you can make for your dog. I recommend these for every breed, once they are out of the chewing stage, especially as they age. They provide joint support, improve comfort, and help dogs truly rest.

* Tough Dog Beds for Dogs That Chew:
If your dog tends to chew or destroy their bedding, a standard plush bed may not last long. In these cases, I recommend tough, chew-resistant dog beds made with reinforced materials.
These are designed to hold up better against digging, scratching, and chewing, and can save you from constantly replacing beds. While no bed is completely indestructible, choosing a more durable option can make a big difference.

* Puppies need Simple Washable Bedding:
For young puppies that are still learning house training, I often suggest starting with simple, washable blankets instead of an expensive dog bed.
Thick towels, fleece throws, or washable pads work very well during this stage. They’re easy to clean, quick to replace, and help protect your main dog beds until your puppy is more reliable. Once house training is more consistent, you can transition to a more permanent, supportive bed.

✂️ 2. Proper Grooming Tools for the Lagotto Romagnolo Coat

Lagotto Romagnolos have a dense, curly wool-like coat that requires regular grooming to help prevent mats and keep the coat healthy.

A gentle slicker brush works well for gently removing loose hair and working through small tangles, while a metal comb is important for reaching deeper into the curly coat—especially around the ears, legs, chest, and underside where mats can develop. Many owners also use a detangling spray to help make grooming easier and reduce coat breakage.

Because the coat continues to grow and traps loose hair rather than shedding heavily, regular trimming and coat maintenance are important to keep the coat manageable and comfortable. The coat should not be brushed into a fluffy appearance, as the breed’s natural rustic curls are part of its traditional look.

Regular brushing:

• Helps prevent mats
• Keeps the curly coat manageable
• Maintains overall coat health

🦴 3. Treats (Great for All Dogs)

• Jerky Treats for Dogs: Almost all dogs love soft, easy-to-break NATURAL jerky treats. They’re perfect for rewarding good behavior without overfeeding. Soft jerky treats provide protein and are easy to chew.
• Tiny Treats for Small Dogs
  For small dogs, I recommend using very tiny, NATURAL training treats that are soft and easy to chew. This lets you reward often without overfeeding.

• Stronger Chew Treats for Larger Dogs
  Dogs that enjoy a more robust chewing experience will benefit from stronger chew treats. Some larger dogs may still go through them quickly, while others will take more time—so it often depends on the individual dog.

👉 My Tip: Check Ingredient Labels

I always recommend checking the ingredient label when choosing treats at the store. Dogs don’t need added sugar or artificial ingredients, and some treats can upset their stomach or cause diarrhea. Look for all-natural ingredient labels, and single ingredient or few ingredient labels are preferred.

It’s important to note that even among the same breed, some dogs enjoy chewing more than others, and many have preferences for certain types of chews. If you notice bleeding gums during chewing, it’s a good idea to have your dog examined by a veterinarian to rule out any dental issues.

🧠 4. Enrichment Toys for Mental Stimulation

Lagotto Romagnolos are active, so giving them something to do is important.

An enrichment toy can help:

• Prevent boredom
• Reduce unwanted behaviors
• Keep their mind engaged

When choosing an enrichment toy, think about your dog’s personality and needs. Some dogs love puzzle toys and mental challenges, while others are happier with something they can chew or carry around.

🐕 5. Safe, Comfortable Harness, Collar & Leash

From my experience, choosing the right walking gear can make a big difference in both safety and control. Some harnesses and collars are designed to help prevent dogs from slipping out, which is especially important for strong or easily startled dogs, and those are the types I personally recommend for safety.

Harness: A quality, comfortable properly fitted harness can make walks more comfortable and easier to manage—especially for dogs that tend to pull or get excited outdoors. If you have a dog that tries to wiggle out of their harness, search for an “escape proof” harness that has an extra strap towards the back.

Collar: I use and prefer safety martingale collars, as they can help prevent dogs from backing out of their collar while still being more gentle than traditional collars when used correctly.

Leash: Choose a lightweight leash for small dogs and a sturdier, heavier leash for larger dogs to ensure good control. Nylon leashes are strong and long-lasting. Some leashes also include a comfortable padded handle.

👉 My Tip: Avoid Retractable Leashes

I don’t recommend retractable leashes, as they can break and tangle easily and create safety issues and tripping hazards.

💡 Lisa’s Tip:

You don’t need a lot of products to care for a dog well… just the right ones. Focus on comfort, consistency, and routine, and you’ll make life easier for both you and your dog.

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Learn more about responsible dog ownership, dog health and daily care:

• Dog Rescue: Adopt a Dog Only From Reliable Rescues
• Choosing a Healthy Puppy from a Dog Breeder
• Healthy Diets
• Bathing, Ear, Teeth and Nail Care
• Senior Dog Guide
• Browse all dog breeds in our complete alphabetical dog breeds directory.