Lagotto Romagnolo
Male: 13-16 kg, Female: 11-14 kg
Male: 43-48 cm, Female: 41-46 cm
15-17 years
Italy (Romagna region)
About the Lagotto Romagnolo
The Lagotto Romagnolo is an ancient Italian breed, recognized as the world's only purebred dog specialized in truffle searching. While they began as water retrievers, the reclamation of Italian marshlands led to their evolution into world-class scent specialists. They are medium-sized, square-built dogs characterized by their unique, woolly, and weather-resistant curls that cover their entire body, including the head. In a domestic setting, the Lagotto is a devoted family companion known for its agility and sharp intelligence. They are incredibly versatile, excelling in obedience, agility, and nose work. Their non-shedding coat makes them popular with allergy sufferers, though their active minds require consistent engagement. They are hardy dogs with a remarkable lifespan, often remaining active and playful well into their senior years.
Breed Standard
Key characteristics from the breed standard
In the ring, the Lagotto Romagnolo must display a rustic, functional appearance—never over-groomed or sculpted like a Poodle. The coat should show distinct, tight curls with a visible woolly texture undercoat. Their movement is energetic and brisk, covering ground with an easy, rhythmic trot that denotes their tireless searching capability.
In Australia
The Lagotto Romagnolo was first introduced to Australia in 2000, according to the Lagotto Romagnolo Club of NSW.
Bred For
Originally a water retriever in the marshlands of Comacchio and Ravenna; since the late 19th century, they have been primarily used as specialized truffle hunters.
Temperament
Loyal, keen, affectionate, and highly intelligent. They are alert and easily trained, possessing a natural gift for searching and a reduced hunting instinct for game, which prevents them from being easily distracted by wildlife.
Health Conditions Reported in the Breed
Benign Familial Juvenile (BFJE), Lagotto Storage Disease (LSD), , Cerebral Ataxia, and ().
Exercise Needs
High.
Grooming Needs
High. Their curly, woolly coat does not shed but mats easily. They require regular clipping (twice a year minimum) and weekly attention to prevent felting. Ear canals must be checked regularly for hair growth and debris.
Living Suitability
Highly adaptable. They can thrive in apartments if their high exercise and mental stimulation needs are met daily, but they greatly enjoy a backyard where they can engage their noses.
Good with Kids
Excellent. They are generally gentle and patient with children, making them superb family pets, though play should always be supervised.
Good with Other Pets
Good. They typically coexist well with other dogs and household pets, especially when socialized from a young age.
Trainability
Very High. They are exceptionally intelligent and eager to please, though they require a job to do to prevent boredom-induced behaviors.
Coat & Colours
Woolly, curly, and water-resistant. The curls are evenly distributed over the body, forming a thick, ring-shaped texture.. Off-white, white with brown or orange patches, brown roan, solid brown, or solid orange. Some may have a brown mask.
Exercise needs vary by age, fitness, health, weather and individual temperament. Consult your veterinarian for an exercise plan appropriate for your dog.
Things to Consider
Every breed has its quirks — here's what to know
Prospective owners should be aware that Lagotto Romagnolo are predisposed to certain genetic conditions such as Lagotto Storage Disease and Juvenile Epilepsy; however, responsible breeders use DNA testing to mitigate these risks. Their incredible nose means they are more likely to engage in digging in the garden as they hunt for 'treasures' underground—providing a designated digging pit can turn this into a fun game. Because their coat is woolly and traps moisture, they can be more susceptible to ear infections if the hair in the canal is not managed; a quick weekly check ensures they stay comfortable. They are also highly intelligent and can develop a sensitive nature; while they are loyal companions, they may be predisposed to noise sensitivity or mild separation anxiety if not socialized early. These traits are easily managed with positive reinforcement and consistent mental engagement, which results in a deeply bonded and capable companion. Additionally, while they are often called hypoallergenic, their coat requires diligent professional grooming to prevent painful matting—this is a small trade-off for a dog that doesn't leave hair on your furniture.
Feeding Guide for Your Lagotto Romagnolo
Healthy Weight
11-16 kg
Daily Feeding Amount (general starting estimate)
280g to 480g
For an adult Lagotto, feed approximately 2-3% of their ideal body weight in fresh food daily. For a standard 14kg adult, this equates to roughly 280g to 420g of high-quality raw food, divided into two meals. Adjust based on activity level and life stage.
Feeding quantities are general starting estimates only. Individual needs vary with body condition, weight trends, age, health and activity. Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition — consult a veterinarian for individualised dietary guidance.
Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition. Seek veterinary or qualified canine nutrition guidance for individualised dietary advice. Raw feeding, specific proteins or fresh foods should not be presented as preventing, treating or managing breed health conditions without veterinary diagnosis and supervision.
Majestik's Recommended Feeding Approach
Breed Diet Notes
A high-quality, protein-rich diet focusing on fresh or raw whole foods to support their dense, woolly coat and high energy levels. They thrive on diets free from fillers and artificial additives.
A balanced raw diet for a Lagotto should include high-quality Australian proteins such as Kangaroo (excellent for lean muscle), Beef, and Lamb. Inclusion of omega-3 fatty acids from fish or hemp seed oil is vital to maintain their unique woolly coat texture and skin health. Small amounts of mashed green vegetables provide necessary antioxidants for their active lifestyle.
These are general breed-level notes only. The appropriate food and serving amount depend on the individual dog's age, health, body condition, activity and tolerance.
Majestik Recommendation
Majestik BARF meals follow our practical 70/10/10/10 approach: approximately 70% quality meat and protein ingredients, 10% edible bone, 10% vegetables and 10% offal. This gives customers a convenient fresh-food option without needing to source and portion every ingredient themselves.
Our Beef, Lamb and Roo BARF meals provide convenient fresh-food options, with suitable proteins chosen or rotated according to the individual dog.
Suitable for different needs
- Healthy adult: Majestik adult Beef, Lamb or Roo BARF meal.
- Puppy: Majestik Premium Puppy.
- Senior: Majestik Senior Blend.
- Working or highly active dog: Suitable Majestik adult meal with quantity adjusted to workload and body condition.
- Protein trial: One Majestik protein at a time.
This is a practical starting recommendation for healthy dogs. Individual needs vary with age, health, body condition and activity.
Lagotto Romagnolo Feeding Calculator
Personalised raw and cooked feeding recommendations based on your dog's profile
Ideal — Ribs palpable without excess fat. Visible waist. Abdominal tuck present.
Have a question about your Lagotto Romagnolo? Dog Health AI
Why Majestik?
Fresh, raw pet food made with integrity in South Australia
Australian Made
Made in Two Wells, South Australia
Freshly Prepared
Real meat, organs, bone & wholefood ingredients
No Fillers
No cheap fillers or artificial preservatives
Family Owned
Locally owned and operated
Local Delivery
Delivery across Adelaide & selected areas
Secure Checkout
Secure payment via Shopify checkout
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Breed Records & Facts
Average Litter Size
5-8 puppies
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References & Sources
Breed information verified against recognised breed authorities and veterinary evidence.
