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Lagotto Romagnolo

Sporting Group

Affectionate, intelligent and energetic

Lagotto Romagnolo

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Breed Overview

The Lagotto Romagnolo, originating from Italy, excels in truffle hunting with its dense, curly coat and sharp sense of smell. Intelligent and affectionate, this medium-sized breed is great with families, adaptable, and requires regular grooming.

Physical Characteristics
  • Size Medium
  • Height 16-19 inches
  • Weight 24-35 pounds
  • Life Span 15-17 years
  • Coat Dense, curly, waterproof
  • Color Varieties include white, brown, orange, and roan
  • Grooming High. Requires regular grooming to prevent matting
  • Temperament Intelligent, affectionate, and eager to please. Known for their keen sense of smell
  • Energy Level High
  • Intelligence High
Health Needs
  • Exercise Moderate. They are active dogs and enjoy both physical and mental stimulation
  • Trainability Highly trainable and responsive. They excel in obedience and agility
  • Socialization Important from a young age to ensure a well-rounded temperament
  • Grooming High. Requires regular grooming to prevent matting
  • Health Issues Generally healthy, but can be prone to hip dysplasia, juvenile epilepsy, and certain eye conditions
Environment
  • Suitability for Families Best for active families, great with kids, affectionate, requires engagement and mental stimulation.
  • Suitable Living Space Best for any home, thrives with ample exercise, adaptable to apartment living.

About the Breed

Traditionally bred as water retrievers, Lagottos are now famed for their truffle-hunting abilities, thanks to their exceptional sense of smell. They are versatile and adapt well to various environments, making them excellent companions.

History of the Breed

The Lagotto Romagnolo is believed to be one of the oldest water retriever breeds, originating from the Romagna region of Italy. Over time, their role transitioned from retrieving water to truffle hunting on land.

Italy

Fun Facts About the Lagotto Romagnolo

What To Expect When Caring For a Lagotto Romagnolo

Health

Generally a healthy breed, but they can be prone to hip dysplasia, juvenile epilepsy, and certain eye conditions. Regular health check-ups are recommended.

Grooming

Their curly coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting. Regular brushing and professional grooming every few months are essential.

Exercise

Daily exercise is necessary. They enjoy activities like walking, swimming, and playing fetch, along with mental stimulation such as scent games.

Training

Highly intelligent and trainable, they respond well to positive reinforcement methods. Early socialization and obedience training are beneficial.

Nutrition

A balanced diet suited to their age, size, and activity level is crucial. Portion control is important to maintain a healthy weight.

The Lagotto Romagnolo is a delightful and versatile breed, ideal for families or individuals looking for an intelligent and affectionate companion. Their unique skills in scent work and their amiable nature make them a standout choice for many dog lovers. With appropriate care, exercise, and training, the Lagotto Romagnolo can be a joyful and loyal addition to any home.

Lagotto Romagnolo Common Health Issues and Recommended Tests

The Lagotto Romagnolo is generally a healthy breed, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health conditions. Being aware of these issues and conducting recommended tests can help in early detection and treatment.

Description: A genetic condition where the thigh bone doesn't fit snugly into the hip joint, leading to arthritis and discomfort.

Description: A hereditary neurological condition that can cause seizures in young dogs.

Description: A specific type of epilepsy seen in the breed, generally appearing between five to nine weeks of age and often resolving by four months.

Description: Including progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and cataracts, which can lead to vision impairment or loss.

Description: A rare genetic neurological disorder affecting the breed.

Hip Dysplasia

Description: A genetic condition where the thigh bone doesn't fit snugly into the hip joint, leading to arthritis and discomfort.

Juvenile Epilepsy

Description: A hereditary neurological condition that can cause seizures in young dogs.

Benign Familial Juvenile Epilepsy (BFJE)

Description: A specific type of epilepsy seen in the breed, generally appearing between five to nine weeks of age and often resolving by four months.

Eye Conditions

Description: Including progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and cataracts, which can lead to vision impairment or loss.

Lagotto Storage Disease (LSD)

Description: A rare genetic neurological disorder affecting the breed.

By being proactive about health care and regular veterinary check-ups, Lagotto Romagnolo owners can ensure their pets lead long and healthy lives. Early detection and management of these common health issues are crucial in this regard.

Prescription Medication Assistance for Lagotto Romagnolo's

The iHeartDogs Free Rx Discount Card Program is a pet prescription discount card that can help you save money on your furry friend’s medications. The card is free to sign up for, and you can use it at participating pharmacies nationwide. To use the free program, simply show the card to your pharmacist when you pick up your pet’s prescription. The pharmacist will then scan the card, and you will receive a discount on the price of the medication.LEARN MORE

How Much Does It Cost To Care For A Lagotto Romagnolo?

Caring for a Lagotto Romagnolo, like any dog, involves various expenses that are essential for their well-being and happiness. The annual cost can vary based on several factors, including your geographical location, the dog’s specific needs, and the level of care you choose to provide. Here’s a breakdown of the typical expenses:

A purebred Lagotto Romagnolo puppy from a reputable breeder can be quite expensive. Always consider adopting from a shelter or rescue.

Initial Cost

$1800 - 4000

Potential Additional Costs:

When searching for a reputable breeder, seek online reviews, and advice from vets, groomers, and fellow Lagotto Romagnolo enthusiasts.

Initial supplies like a crate, bed, bowls, collar, and leash can really add up.

Initial Cost

$200 - 500

Potential Additional Costs:

You may already have many of these items at home. Costs will vary depending on your purchase choices.

High-quality dog food tailored for a medium-sized and active breed

Estimated Cost

$300 - 700

Potential Additional Costs:

Learn more about the best quality dog food for Lagotto Romagnolo's.

The Lagotto Romagnolo's curly coat requires regular grooming.

Estimated Cost

$300 - 600

Potential Additional Costs:

If you choose to perform simple grooming tasks at home you will need to invest in high-quality grooming supplies, such as dog-safe shampoos, nail trimmers, and haircutting shears.

Lagotto Romagnolo's require routine vet visits for check-ups, vaccinations, and flea and tick prevention.

Estimate Cost

$200 - 500

Potential Additional Costs:

The cost of veterinary care can vary widely depending on your geographic location and many other factors. This estimate only represents the cost of wellness care, and does not include any potential illnesses or injuries that may arise.

Pet insurance offers financial protection and peace of mind, ensuring that you can afford necessary veterinary care in the event of an emergency.

Estimated Cost

$200 - 600

Potential Additional Costs:

Insurance premiums vary depending on the coverage you choose as well as your Get a FREE, no-strings quote from the top pet insurers!

Your Lagotto Romagnolo will need toys, chews, wellness supplements, car safety equipment, and other supplies throughout their life.

Estimated Cost

$50 - 300

Potential Additional Costs:

Additional supplies can add up depending on the level of care you provide your pup.

Professional training is extremely important, but can add several hundred dollars to the cost of your dog's care.

Estimated Cost

$500 - 1000

Potential Additional Costs:

Online Courses are available and can help you save money.

Setting aside funds for unexpected health issues is always a good idea.

Estimated Cost

Varies based on need

Potential Additional Costs:

Can easily reach into the thousands with surgical costs, IVs, medications and after hours treatment.

If you travel or work long hours, you may need boarding or pet sitting services.

Estimated Cost

Varies based on need

Potential Additional Costs:

Overnight-boarding, day-boarding, and pet-sitting costs vary depending on the area you live, length of stay/frequency of services, and the amenities offered by the boarding facility or pet sitter.

A one-time fee for microchipping and annual local licensing fees.

Estimated Cost

$35 - 70

Total Estimated Annual Cost:

$3585 - $8270

It's important to note that these figures are estimates and can vary. Also, the first year of owning a dog can be more expensive due to one-time costs like spaying/neutering, initial vaccinations, and training. Regular budgeting for your dog's needs and an emergency fund for unforeseen costs are essential for responsible pet ownership.

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