The Lagotto Romagnolo is a rare, affectionate, and intelligent breed known for its dense, curly coat and excellent truffle-hunting skills. Originating in Italy, the Lagotto Romagnolo is one of the oldest water retriever breeds and was initially used for hunting waterfowl in the marshlands of the Romagna region. Over time, as the marshlands were drained, the breed transitioned to truffle hunting, for which it is highly prized today due to its keen sense of smell and innate digging skills. Lagotto Romagnolos are medium-sized dogs, typically standing between 16 to 19 inches tall and weighing between 24 to 35 pounds. Their unique, thick, curly coat is both water-resistant and hypoallergenic, making it suitable for people with allergies. The coat comes in various shades, including white, brown, roan, and orange, often with markings or patches. Their soulful, expressive eyes and teddy-bear-like appearance make them particularly endearing. Known for their loyal, affectionate, and alert temperament, Lagottos are highly people-oriented and form strong bonds with their families. They are generally friendly with children and other pets, making them excellent companions. While naturally social and gentle, Lagottos are alert and have a natural guarding instinct, which makes them good watchdogs without excessive barking. Their calm disposition, combined with an energetic and curious side, makes them adaptable to different living environments, from apartments to rural homes. The Lagotto Romagnolo is an active breed that thrives on regular physical and mental stimulation. They enjoy daily walks, playtime, and interactive games, as well as activities that engage their natural hunting instincts, such as scent work or digging games. Due to their intelligence, Lagottos excel in dog sports like agility, obedience, and nose work. Regular exercise and challenges are essential to prevent boredom and keep them mentally engaged. Training a Lagotto Romagnolo is typically straightforward due to their intelligence and eagerness to please. They respond well to positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats, praise, and play. Early socialization and consistent training help them develop confidence and adaptability in different environments and situations. Because of their high trainability and focus, Lagottos are also popular as therapy dogs and in scent-detection roles. Grooming a Lagotto Romagnolo requires regular maintenance due to its thick, curly coat. Brushing a few times a week is essential to prevent mats and tangles, especially around the ears, legs, and chest. Their coat needs occasional trimming to maintain its shape and texture, though it should not be excessively styled. The breed is low-shedding but benefits from regular grooming to keep its coat healthy. Routine ear cleaning, dental care, and nail trimming are also necessary to maintain their overall health. The Lagotto Romagnolo is generally a healthy breed with a lifespan of around 15 to 17 years, which is quite long for a medium-sized dog. However, they can be prone to certain health issues, including hip dysplasia, epilepsy, and certain eye conditions. Regular veterinary checkups, responsible breeding practices, and a balanced diet are essential for maintaining their health and longevity.