Origin
The Lagotto Romagnolo is native to Italy where these handsome dogs were originally bred to retrieve game on land and on water. They have always been highly prized in their native Italy not only for their retrieving skills, but also because they boast having a tremendously keen sense of smell and are therefore often used to search out highly sought after truffles in woodland areas of the land. Today, the Lagotto Romagnolo although lesser known and seen here in the UK, remains a popular working and companion dog in their native Italy.
It's thought the Lagotto Romagnolo has been around for centuries having been bred in Italy as a water dog and retriever. The breed has been well-documented throughout history with paintings depicting similar looking, handsome dogs dating as far back as the 1400's. As such, the Lagotto is considered to be one of the most ancient breeds with many other more recent water dog breeds being descendants of the Lagotto.
The origins of the breed can be narrowed down to the lowlands and marshlands of Comacchio and Ravenna where they were highly prized retrievers and gundogs throughout the ages. Today, the Lagotto remains popular in their native Italy both as working dogs and family pets thanks to their charming looks and loyal, affectionate natures.
The Lagotto Romagnolo was recognised as a breed in its own right by the Italian Kennel Club in 1991 and their popularity elsewhere in the world has led to more breeders producing good examples of the Lagotto in many countries which includes here in the UK. However, very few puppies are bred and registered with The Kennel Club every year which means that anyone who wants to share their home with a Lagotto would need to register their interest with breeders and agree to being put on a waiting list.
