About the Lagotto

The Lagotto is an ancient breed for water retrieving known in Italy since the 16th century in the lowlands of Comacchio and the marshlands of Ravenna. Over the centuries, the great marshlands were drained and turned into arable land. Since the 19th century this intelligent breed has been utilized as an excellent dog for searching truffles in the flat open country and the hills of Romagna, thanks to his very developed sense of smell and high ability to concentrate on the search.

The breeds original job changed and they were taught to search for truffles on all kinds of ground: it’s the only breed recognized for this purpose.  They have a natural scenting ability and can learn to use those skills in a variety of ways. Lagotti love scent skill activities of all kinds.

The Lagotto is a breed that needs a ‘job’ and does best in a lifestyle that will give training & socializing opportunities as well as fun mental activities to challenge their minds.  

They can excel at many different dog sports and activities given proper training.

Raising a well-balanced, confident & happy Lagotti requires patience, flexibility and a commitment to providing the dog what it needs for success.

There is a lot of marketing online promoting the Lagotti as a 'perfect', fun and easy breed. 

No breed is perfect! It is very important to REALLY research any breed before deciding to add one. ALL breeds have characteristics that make them who they are and Lagotti are no different.
Some traits that are not highlighted in marketing include:

• Alert barking - they tend to alert bark more than some breeds
• Environmental sensitivity - as a breed they can be very sensitive to sights/sounds/changes in the environment and need a commitment to socialization & training in the first 18 months.
• Chewing & Digging- these activities can last well past puppyhood for this breed.
• Grooming - while they are non-shedding they do require grooming and maintenance regularly.

Health of any dog should be a priority. Our breed has some very specific health issues that all breeding dogs should be screened for.
Do not skip learning about these tests and how to verify that they are completed for any breeding dogs you are looking at. Never take a breeder's word that 'my dogs are healthy' - require verifiable proof.

List of tests