Affectionately known as the “truffle dog,” the Lagotto Romagnolo is a rare gem in the canine world. With their curly, teddy bear-like coats and intelligent eyes, they’re as charming as they are capable. Originally bred in the Romagna region of Italy as water retrievers, they later found their true calling sniffing out truffles buried deep in the earth — a job they still excel at today.
Don’t let their rustic roots fool you — Lagottos are affectionate, smart, and eager to please. Their loyal, loving nature makes them a joy to live with, while their keen noses and tireless work ethic mean they thrive when given a job to do. Whether it’s agility, obedience, or simply keeping up with an active family, the Lagotto Romagnolo is a devoted and adaptable companion.
Lagotto Romagnolo Dog Breed Facts & Characteristics
| Characteristics | Detail |
|---|---|
| Origin | Italy (Romagna region), 1400s |
| Also known as | Lagotto |
| Bred for | Water retrieving, truffle hunting |
| Size | Medium; 41–48 cm in height |
| Weight range | 11–16 kg |
| Colours | Off-white, brown, orange, rust, or roan mixes |
| Life expectancy | 12–15 years |
| Coat | Curly, woolly, low-shedding |
| Temperament | Affectionate, alert, intelligent |
| Exercise requirements | High; loves activity and mental stimulation |
| Best suited for | Active households, families, hobby trainers |
| Apartment friendly | Yes, with sufficient daily exercise |
Personality
Loyal and lively, the Lagotto Romagnolo is a people-oriented dog that thrives on companionship and purpose. They’re known for their gentle temperament and affectionate nature, forming strong bonds with their family. These dogs are intelligent problem-solvers — they love learning new tasks and often excel in obedience, nosework, and agility.
While they’re typically friendly with children and other pets, their alertness means they may be a little reserved around strangers at first. Early socialisation is key to helping them build confidence in new settings. They’re not aggressive, but they may become protective of their people — all part of their deep loyalty and connection to the home.
Exercise
The Lagotto is no couch potato. This breed has working roots and needs a good dose of physical and mental exercise every day. A long daily walk, a game of fetch, or even a hike is ideal — but what they truly love is using their nose. Scent games, hide-and-seek, and even truffle-hunting kits can help satisfy that natural instinct.
They also thrive in structured activities like obedience trials, tracking, or agility. Without enough stimulation, Lagottos can become restless or even destructive. Think of them as canine detectives — they’re happiest when on a mission.
Feeding
As a medium-sized breed with moderate to high energy levels, the Lagotto Romagnolo does well on a balanced diet rich in quality protein, healthy fats, and fibre. Adult dogs typically require two meals a day, while puppies may need three smaller meals to support their growth.
Because they’re food-driven (thanks to those truffle-hunting genes), it’s important to watch portion sizes and use treats wisely during training. Foods containing omega-3 fatty acids, like fish oil, can support their coat and joint health — both important for this active, curly-coated breed.
Grooming
The Lagotto’s coat is one of its most iconic features — dense, curly, and woolly, much like a poodle’s. While they don’t shed much, their coat requires regular care to avoid matting. A thorough brushing once or twice a week is essential, and professional clipping or trimming every couple of months keeps their curls neat.
As with any floppy-eared breed, regular ear cleaning helps prevent infections. Nail trims, dental care, and routine checks for skin conditions should also be part of their grooming routine. If you keep their coat at a manageable length, upkeep becomes much more straightforward.
Common Health Concerns
Lagotto Romagnolos are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they’re prone to a few inherited conditions:
- Hip dysplasia – A common joint issue that can lead to pain and mobility problems.
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) – A degenerative eye condition that may lead to vision loss.
- Juvenile epilepsy – Some Lagottos can experience seizures early in life, which may improve with age.
- Skin sensitivities – Their curly coat can trap debris and moisture, leading to irritation if not properly maintained.
- Ear infections – Their love for water and floppy ears make regular ear care essential.
Regular check-ups, a healthy diet, and staying on top of grooming can help prevent many of these issues.
Did You Know?
The Lagotto Romagnolo is the only dog breed in the world bred specifically for truffle hunting. Their extraordinary sense of smell, paired with a soft mouth and natural drive to dig, makes them ideal for sniffing out these prized delicacies without damaging them — a skill that has made them beloved in gourmet circles across Europe.
Lagotto Romagnolo FAQs
How much exercise does a Lagotto Romagnolo need?
They need at least 60 minutes of daily exercise, plus mental enrichment like scent games or puzzle toys to keep them satisfied.
Is the Lagotto Romagnolo good with children?
Yes, they are gentle and affectionate with children, especially when socialised early. They do well in family environments.
What kind of home suits a Lagotto Romagnolo best?
They thrive in active homes with people who enjoy outdoor activities. They’re adaptable to apartment living if their exercise needs are met.
Are Lagottos easy to train?
Very. They’re highly intelligent and eager to please, responding well to positive reinforcement and consistent routines.
Do Lagotto Romagnolos bark a lot?
They can be vocal when alerting you to something unusual but aren’t known to be excessive barkers if properly trained.
Are Lagottos hypoallergenic?
No dog is truly hypoallergenic, but the Lagotto’s low-shedding coat makes them a good choice for allergy-sensitive households.
How much does a Lagotto Romagnolo cost in Australia?
You can expect to pay between $4,000 and $6,000 AUD from a registered breeder. Prices may vary based on pedigree and availability.