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Lagotto Romagnolo
Also known as: Romagna Water Dog
Breed origin: Italy
Original purpose: Truffle-searching on any kind of ground.
AKC recognized: No
AKC group: Foundation Stock Service
Size:
Weight: males 28 to 35 lbs;
females 24 to 31 lbs
Size: Height: males 17 to 19 inches;
females 16 to 18 inches
Color: Brown, roan, white, off white, or orange.
Life span: 15 to 16 years.
General characteristics/temperament: The Lagotto Romagnolo is bright, happy, agile, affectionate, intelligent, loyal, and obedient. They are loving, adaptable, and easy to train, making them excellent family companions. They usually have a natural affinity with children, and become very attached to their family. They have very keen senses and will warn of approaching strangers. As high-energy dogs, they love activity and need plenty of physical and mental exercise. Most Lagotti love water and enjoys the outdoors, and many love games such as fetch or hide and seek.
Good with children? Yes
Good with other dogs? Yes
Good with cats? Yes
Hypoallergenic? Usually considered good for allergy sufferers.
Good watchdog? Yes
Intelligent? Yes
Easy to train? Yes
Energy/Activity Level: High
Suitable canine sports/activities: tracking, agility
Grooming requirement: They have hair instead of fur, which means that they don't shed the way dogs with fur do, but their hair grows continuously and needs to be trimmed regularly. The coat is easier to maintain if kept trimmed to about 1 to 1.5" in length every 3 months. Brush once or twice weekly to prevent matting, then spray with water to restore curls. Bathe about once a month as needed.
Known health problems: Hip dysplasia, cerebella anomaly, epilepsy.
Other websites for additional information:
American Kennel Club breed page
Lagotto Club of America
Wikipedia breed information page
DogBreedMatch
