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Lagotto Romagnolo

Lagotto Romagnolo is a medium sporting breed from Italy also known as Italian Water Dog, Truffle Dog, Romagna Water Dog.

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Breed overview

Lagotto Romagnolo is a medium sporting breed from Italy also known as Italian Water Dog, Truffle Dog, Romagna Water Dog.

The only breed specifically bred for truffle hunting, originally water retrievers in the marshlands of Romagna, Italy. When the marshes were drained in the 19th century, they were retrained to hunt the valuable fungi with their exceptional noses.

People looking into Lagotto Romagnolo usually prepare for High exercise needs, High grooming needs, 24–35 lbs • 16–19 in.

Italian Water DogTruffle DogRomagna Water Dog

History and origin

Lagotto Romagnolo is tied to originating from Italy, specifically Romagna region, with sources often placing its development around 1600 CE.

Lagotto Romagnolo is described here as placed in the sporting group and marked as an established breed.

The only breed specifically bred for truffle hunting, originally water retrievers in the marshlands of Romagna, Italy. When the marshes were drained in the 19th century, they were retrained to hunt the valuable fungi with their exceptional noses.

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Quick facts

Breed group
sporting
Size
Medium
Origin country
Italy
Region
Romagna region
Origin year
1600 CE
Weight
24–35 lbs
Height
16–19 in
Lifespan
15–17 years
Breed status
Established

Traits and day-to-day fit

Energy level
4 / 5
Trainability
4 / 5
Good with children
4 / 5
Shedding level
1 / 5
Barking tendency
2 / 5
High exercise needsHigh grooming needsChildren score: 4/5Trainability: 4/5

Coat and classification

Lagotto Romagnolo is grouped here with these coat and texture descriptors.

CurlyWoollyDense

Lagotto Romagnolo is also listed as recognized by these kennel-club organizations.

Recognized by AKCRecognized by FCIRecognized by CKCRecognized by KCRecognized by KCA

Appearance and build

  • Medium-small size with square, sturdy build
  • Dense, curly waterproof coat
  • Various colors from off-white to brown
  • Large, round eyes with keen, intelligent expression

What this breed is known for

  • The only breed specifically bred for truffle hunting, originally water retrievers in the marshlands of Romagna, Italy. When the marshes were drained in the 19th century, they were retrained to hunt the valuable fungi with their exceptional noses.
  • Their curly, waterproof coat naturally forms tight curls that protect them from thorns and brambles while searching for truffles underground. The coat requires special grooming techniques to maintain its protective qualities.
  • Modern truffle hunters can earn thousands of dollars per day with a skilled Lagotto, as these dogs can detect truffles buried up to 24 inches underground. They're so valuable that truffle hunters often keep their dogs' abilities secret.

Health and care notes

Lagotto Romagnolo is noted here for High exercise needs and High grooming needs.

  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Elbow Dysplasia
  • Eye Conditions
  • Epilepsy

Coat details: Curly, Woolly, Dense

These are informational breed-guide notes, not veterinary advice.

Frequently asked questions

Where does the Lagotto Romagnolo come from?

Lagotto Romagnolo is closely associated with Italy, especially Romagna region in the sources used for this page.

How big does a Lagotto Romagnolo get?

Typical size details for Lagotto Romagnolo on this page are 24–35 lbs, 16–19 in, 15–17 years.

What is the Lagotto Romagnolo known for?

The only breed specifically bred for truffle hunting, originally water retrievers in the marshlands of Romagna, Italy. When the marshes were drained in the 19th century, they were retrained to hunt the valuable fungi with their exceptional noses.

Sources and citations

References below include kennel-club profiles, breed standards, and supporting background links for deeper reading.
  1. American Kennel Club breed profile
    American Kennel Club
  2. Royal Kennel Club breed profile
    The Royal Kennel Club
  3. Royal Kennel Club breed standard
    The Royal Kennel Club • Breed standard
  4. Lagotto Romagnolo reference page
    Wikipedia

Use the linked breed directories and standards for deeper reference. Breed guides are informational and do not replace veterinary or breeder advice.