The Lagotto Romagnolo: A Rare Dog Breed

 

The Lagotto Romagnolo: Italy’s Hidden Canine Treasure

The Lagotto Romagnolo is a rare breed in America, but it is near and dear to Italy, its country of origin. With its rich history, curly coat, and impressive skills, this breed is beloved by dog enthusiasts worldwide. Get to know the Lagotto, and you’ll get to know Italy as well. In this article, we’ll explore interesting facts about the Lagotto Romagnolo, its history, unique characteristics, and why it makes an excellent companion.

A Breed With an Ancient History

The Lagotto Romagnolo is one of the oldest known water dogs. There is written evidence of the breed working in the marshes of Italy as early as the 1600s. However, some believe that the Lagotto’s history stretches back even further. Artifacts from the Etruscan civilization, which thrived in Italy from the 8th century to the 2nd century B.C., depict hunting dogs that closely resemble the Lagotto Romagnolo. These findings suggest that the breed’s ancestors may have been present in Italy for over 2,000 years.

The Meaning Behind the Name

The Lagotto Romagnolo’s name reflects its original purpose. The word "Lago" is Italian for "lake," and in the local Romagna dialect, “Càn Lagòt” translates to "water dog" or "wetland hunting dog with a curly coat." Originally, the breed was used to retrieve game from marshes and lakes, making it an essential companion for hunters in Italy’s wetland regions.

Immortalized in Italian Art

The Lagotto Romagnolo has been a subject of admiration in Italy for centuries, even appearing in Renaissance paintings. Artists such as Pittore Lombardo, Guercino, and Andrea Mantegna have depicted the breed in their works. Some art historians speculate that the dog featured in Andrea Mantegna’s painting "The Meeting" may actually be a Spinone Italiano. Regardless, the presence of the Lagotto in historical art solidifies its longstanding importance in Italian culture.

A Career Change That Saved the Breed

The 19th century brought significant changes to Italy’s landscape. When many marshes were drained and reclaimed for farming, hunters had less need for water dogs. However, the breed found a new calling—truffle hunting. Truffle hunters, who search for the prized underground mushrooms, quickly realized that the Lagotto’s keen sense of smell made them exceptional at detecting truffles. By the early 20th century, the Lagotto Romagnolo became the preferred truffle-hunting dog in Romagna and surrounding regions. This career change not only preserved the breed but also enhanced its reputation for intelligence and trainability.

A Low-Shedding, Curly-Coated Companion

One of the Lagotto Romagnolo’s most distinctive features is its thick, curly coat. Unlike many other breeds, the Lagotto has a medium-length double coat that does not shed excessively. While this makes them a good choice for people who prefer a low-shedding dog, their coat does require regular grooming. Routine brushing and occasional trimming are necessary to keep their fur from matting and to maintain their signature curly look.

The Impact of Truffle Hunters on the Breed

Truffle hunters played a vital role in preserving the Lagotto Romagnolo, but in doing so, they also unintentionally altered the breed. Since their primary concern was finding the best truffle hunters rather than maintaining breed purity, they occasionally crossed Lagotti with other breeds that had similar skills. While this practice helped improve the breed’s scent-detection abilities, it may have also introduced slight genetic variations. Despite this, modern breeders have worked diligently to restore and maintain the Lagotto’s original traits.

A Highly Trainable and Intelligent Dog

The Lagotto Romagnolo is known for its eagerness to learn and adaptability. Having been bred for both water retrieval and truffle hunting, these dogs are intelligent, quick learners, and always ready to please. They excel in obedience training, agility, and scent work. Because of their working-dog background, Lagotti require mental stimulation and enjoy interactive play, puzzle toys, and training exercises.

A Loving and Affectionate Companion

Lagotti are known for their affectionate and friendly nature. They form strong bonds with their families and are highly social dogs. They love to be around people and are often eager to greet guests. While they are generally friendly toward strangers, they are also loyal to their owners and thrive in a home where they receive plenty of attention and interaction. Their affectionate temperament makes them excellent family dogs.

Recognition as an Official Breed

Despite being an ancient breed, the Lagotto Romagnolo was only officially recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 2015. It was one of five breeds added that year, along with the Bergamasco, Berger Picard, Boerboel, and Cirneco dell’Etna. Since its recognition, the breed has steadily grown in popularity, ranking among the top 100 AKC-registered breeds.

A Quiet but Alert Dog

Unlike some other breeds, the Lagotto Romagnolo is not particularly vocal. While they will bark to alert their owners when necessary, they are generally quiet dogs. They may occasionally bark to express excitement or warn of a potential intruder, but excessive barking is not a common trait. This makes them well-suited for households that prefer a quieter canine companion.

The Ideal Environment for a Lagotto Romagnolo

While the Lagotto Romagnolo is an adaptable breed, it thrives in a home where it gets plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Here are some key factors to consider when welcoming a Lagotto into your home:

Space and Exercise Needs

Lagotti are active dogs that enjoy outdoor activities. They benefit from daily walks, playtime, and opportunities to explore. A fenced yard is ideal, but they can also adapt to apartment living as long as they get enough exercise.

Grooming Requirements

Their curly coat requires regular maintenance. Brushing a few times a week and trimming every few months will help prevent matting and keep them looking their best.

Socialization and Training

Lagotti are highly trainable and eager to learn. Early socialization and consistent training will help them develop into well-mannered companions. Positive reinforcement methods work best with this intelligent breed.

Family and Companionship

These dogs are happiest when they are part of a loving family. They enjoy human companionship and should not be left alone for extended periods.

Is the Lagotto Romagnolo the Right Dog for You?

The Lagotto Romagnolo is an extraordinary breed with a rich history, incredible intelligence, and a loving personality. Originally bred as a water retriever and later repurposed as a truffle hunter, this curly-coated dog has proven its versatility and loyalty. It’s no wonder that the Lagotto is gaining popularity worldwide, despite still being a rare breed in America.

If you are looking for a highly trainable, affectionate, and low-shedding dog, the Lagotto Romagnolo may be the perfect addition to your family. Whether you’re an active individual seeking an adventure companion or a family looking for a loving pet, the Lagotto is a breed that will bring joy and companionship into your home. Get to know the Lagotto Romagnolo, and you’ll not only gain a devoted furry friend but also a connection to Italy’s rich canine heritage.