The Lagotto Romanolo’s traditional function was as a gun dog, specifically a water retriever.
Lago means lake in Italian and this breed would retrieve water birds that had been shot and in water back to land.
This type of dog has been around since about the 13th century.
Today the lagotto dog is often used to hunt for truffles, a subterranean fungi and luxury food item worth thousands of dollars per kilogram.
It is the only purebred dog in the world that is specifically bred and recognised as a specialised truffle hunter.
This is because of the dog’s keen scenting ability, soft mouth and natural drive to dig making this breed ideal for sniffing out these prized delicacies without damaging them.
They are a small to medium size dog, between 11-16kg, square in build and quite powerful.
The coat is thick, like wool, waterproof and tightly curled, it forms ringlet shaped curls and is low shedding.
The lagotto’s coat is denser and rougher than a poodle’s coat, and it requires less maintenance than a poodle.
Because this breed has working roots, they require daily exercise and mental stimulation.
Many thrive in structured activities like obedience trials, tracking and agility.
Gentle and affectionate, these dogs do well in family environments.
They are intelligent and eager to please, and they can also be an ideal watchdog.
Maintenance – the coat requires a thorough brushing a few times a week to prevent matting, and a trim once or twice a year.
Regular ear cleaning is required – as for all floppy-eared dogs.
Health – generally a very healthy breed, depending on the breeders; those that choose healthy breeding dogs with good character.
There is incidence of juvenile epilepsy and neurological disease, however, DNA testing is available for carriers of this gene.
Litters from these truffle hunting dogs can cost up to $6000 for a puppy and more for a trained dog.
