Lagotto Romagnolo: the king of truffle dogs is Italian DOC
The Lagotto Romagnolo is an ancient water-carrying dog breed that has been present since the 16th century in the Comacchio valleys and lagoons of Ravenna and then spread to the plains and hills of Romagna beginning in the late 19th century.
Its name derives from its original function as a water dog: in the Romagnolo dialect “Càn Lagòt” means, precisely, “water dog.”
These small, curly-haired dogs assisted hunters in bringing back from the water game killed during hunting trips to the lagoons.
Due to the reclamations that restricted the immense Comacchio and Romagna marshes, the Lagotto gradually lost its function as an aquatic dog and gained another role: its excellent sense of smell crowned it the “king of truffle dogs.”
The recognition of race
Truffle hunters have always bred Lagotti dogs without criteria, crossing them with other dog breeds (pointers, tramps, setters, spinons, bloodhounds, and half-breeds) for the sole purpose of obtaining the best truffle dog.
This dastardly practice, coupled with the incompetence, ignorance and carelessness of truffle hunters, led the lagotto to the brink of extinction in the late 1970s.
So it was that a group of Romagna dog lovers consisting of Quintino Toschi, Francesco Ballotta, Antonio Morsiani and Lodovico Babini, took matters into their own hands and reconstructed the genetics of the Lagotto, averting its demise.
Official recognition of the breed by the E.N.C.I. occurred as recently as 1992, while theU.M.LAG (World Union of Lagotto Romagnolo Clubs) was formed in 1997.
Since then, Lagots have spread widely throughout Europe and the world and are unquestionably the kings of truffle dogs.
Lagotto is affectionate and sociable
Lagots are also prized for their friendly, lively and sociable disposition.
These dogs are extremely affectionate with their family and tend to bond strongly with their humans.
However, it is important to note that the Lagotto Romagnolo is a very active dog and needs regular exercise.
Therefore, it is crucial to provide them with ample opportunities for play and interaction.
In addition, the Lagotto is known for its protective instincts: it becomes attached to environments and people, and may demonstrate a guarded attitude toward strangers.
Lagotto’s curls: how to take care of his coat
The coat of Lagotti Romagnoli is one of their most distinctive features and requires careful care.
Curly and thick, it offers protection from weather and pests but requires regular care.
It is important to remove knots weekly, thus preventing the hair from felting.
Proper maintenance of the Lagotto’s coat not only maintains its appearance but also prevents dermatological problems.
Using a wide-tooth comb and scheduling professional grooming every 2-3 months is essential for your dog’s health.
A wide-toothed comb should be used and not the brush because it would ruin its beautiful curls by gently unraveling them.
The hair should be shortened but never sheared: its thickness should never be less than four centimeters.
Common pathologies in the Lagotto Romagnolo
Small to medium in size, the Lagotto is characterized by a compact body, ranging in height from 43 to 48 cm for males and 40 to 45 cm for females, and weighing between 13 and 16 kg.
It is generally a robust breed, but can be prone to genetic disorders such as hip dysplasia.
This condition occurs when the hip joint does not develop properly, causing pain and lameness.
Due to their ear structure, Lagotti can be prone to otitis. It is important to check the ears regularly and clean them gently to prevent infection.
To have your Lagotto Romagnolo checked, for vaccines and periodic check-ups, contact the veterinary doctors on our staff who are always available to you.
We would also like to remind you that Clinica La Veterinaria is always open h24 every day including holidays and with First Aid service from 8 pm to 8 am.
