Lagotto Romagnolo

• ExerciseHigh

  Needs a good workout or long walk every day.

• GroomingBrush a few times a week

  Brushing several times a week prevents mats.

• Living spaceFlexible

  Adapts to most homes with enough activity.

• Owner experienceFor experienced owners

  Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• Commitment14–16 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Hip dysplasia · Epilepsy · Cataracts

The Lagotto Romagnolo is a smart, affectionate working dog whose original water-retrieving role became truffle hunting, giving it an extraordinary nose and a love of searching. Lagotti are devoted, gentle and playful family dogs that bond closely with their people and are generally good with children and other pets. They can be a little reserved with strangers but are rarely aggressive, and they dislike being left alone for long. This is a moderately energetic breed that needs daily exercise plus, crucially, mental work — scent games, hide-and-seek, training and puzzle activities satisfy its searching instincts and prevent boredom-driven digging. Lagotti are quick learners, eager to please and highly food-motivated, responding beautifully to positive, engaging training. A Lagotto with a job to do is calm and content indoors. The woolly, curly coat does not shed much, making it a favorite of allergy sufferers, but it needs regular trimming a few times a year and occasional brushing to prevent mats. The breed is generally healthy, with hip dysplasia, a benign juvenile epilepsy, eye conditions and patellar luxation among the concerns. Mentally engaged and loved, the Lagotto is a delightful, devoted companion.

• How much exercise does a Lagotto Romagnolo need?

  High. Needs a good workout or long walk every day.

• How much grooming does a Lagotto Romagnolo need?

  Brush a few times a week. Brushing several times a week prevents mats.

• Is a Lagotto Romagnolo suited to apartment living?

  Flexible. Adapts to most homes with enough activity.

• Is a Lagotto Romagnolo a good fit for first-time owners?

  For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• How long do Lagotto Romagnolo live?

  14–16 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Lagotto Romagnolo?

  Keep an eye out for Hip dysplasia, Epilepsy, Cataracts. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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