Lagotti

Lagotti, also known as Lagotto Romagnolo, are a breed of dog originating from the Romagna sub-region of Italy. They are primarily known as water retrievers, historically used for duck hunting. Over time, their exceptional olfactory abilities led them to be specialized as truffle dogs, a role they excel in due to their keen sense of smell and natural searching drive.

Physically, Lagotti are medium-sized dogs with a robust build. They possess a distinctive curly coat that is dense and woolly, lacking a separate undercoat. This coat is typically off-white, brown, or orange in various shades and requires regular grooming to prevent matting. Their ears are pendulous and set high, and their eyes are typically almond-shaped and brown.

Temperamentally, Lagotti are known for being intelligent, affectionate, and eager to please. They are generally good with families and can be socialized to get along well with other pets. They possess a moderate energy level and require regular exercise and mental stimulation to thrive. Their intelligence makes them highly trainable, and they respond well to positive reinforcement methods. Their historical role as working dogs means they enjoy having a task to perform. They are not typically prone to excessive barking.

The breed's origins are ancient, with roots tracing back to the early water dogs of the Po Delta. Their development as a distinct breed is closely tied to the agricultural and waterfowl hunting traditions of their native region. Today, they are recognized by major kennel clubs worldwide and are gaining popularity as both working dogs and companion animals.