THE LAGOTTO

The Lagotto Romagnolo is an Italian breed of dog originally used as a gundog, specifically a water retriever, it is now more often used to hunt for truffles. It originates in the marshlands of the Delta del Po in the eastern part of the Romagnain north-east Italy. The name derives from Romagnol can lagot, meaning "water dog". The breed came close to extinction by the 1970s.

The Lagotto is small to medium in size,, measuring between 41-49 cms and weighing 11-16 kgs, powerfully built and of rustic appearance. The water-proof coat has a woolly texture, forming very thick ringlets curls all over the body, except on the head, where the curls are more loose. It may be completely off-white, or off-white with orange or brown patches or roaning, or solid orange or brown either with or without white markings. The continuously growing hair requires regularl grooming otherwise it tends to become very matted. Ideally the Lagotto requires reqular clipping.

The Lagotto Romagnolo is an intelligent an sweet-tempered dog. It is affectionate and strongly attached to its owner, making it an excellent companion dog and it is highly trainable. Being sociable hey get along well with other dogs, pets and children. The Lagotto's intelligence and eagerness to please makes them highly suitable to various dogsports such as obedience, agility, fly-ball and of course tracing.

The Lagotto enjoys being active but is quite happy to relax quietly at home. The Lagotto is adaptable to city or country living but requires regular exercise and thrives on companionship. They have great endurance and like to go walking, play ball games, retrieving and swimming.

A Lagotto usually lives for about fifteen years.