The breed is often described as a beginner's dog, but I don't agree. Due to its intelligence and work ethic, the Lagotto is a challenging dog that demands a lot from its owner. This applies to training as well as mental and physical activity. It thrives and is happy with active people who can accompany it on jogging, walking, hiking, cycling, and activities like dog sports/scent work such as tracking, mantrailing, object searches, truffle hunting, etc.

I don't see this breed as a purely family dog that doesn't receive extensive mental and physical stimulation.

His character also has a certain humorous side.” Lagottos in general can be wonderfully persistent and patient when begging. When you look into their friendly, cheerful faces, it can be very difficult not to give in.

At home, the Lagotto is alert and will certainly let you know if something unusual is happening in its territory.

However, this breed does not respond well at all to harshness or rigid training. A respectful and fair approach, combined with empathy, creativity and plenty of praise, achieves much better results. The Lagotto is sensitive and therefore needs gentle and understanding guidance.

The Lagotto’s hunting instinct is also often played down in standard breed descriptions. The VDH description states: “His hunting instinct has been modified through genetic selection so that he is not distracted from his work by the scent of game.”

In my experience, this is not entirely accurate. I have owned Lagottos for several years and during this time I have met many females and males of different ages. I can say that the Lagotto does have a hunting instinct, although its intensity varies considerably from dog to dog.

It should also be mentioned that the Lagotto is a very active dog and often enjoys chasing anything that runs or flies away. This behaviour is stronger in some dogs than in others. With experience, consistency and, when necessary, professional support from a good dog trainer or training school, it can usually be managed very well. Playing down this instinct is therefore not the right approach, as it can quickly become a problem if owners are not prepared for it.

As a former water dog, swimming is still one of the Lagotto’s favourite activities. Muddy water and dirty puddles certainly do not put him off. Even a beautifully maintained garden pond at home may not be safe from his enthusiasm for water. People who are particularly concerned about keeping everything perfectly clean may therefore find life with this water loving and mud loving four legged companion somewhat challenging.

As far as the coat is concerned, the Lagotto is considered a non shedding breed. Although it does not shed in the typical sense, it does lose small amounts of loose, fine hair.

Many Lagotto owners have their dogs clipped regularly. This is a matter of personal preference, except when it comes to showing. We clip our dogs once or twice a year. Apart from that, I brush them and regularly trim their coats with scissors to prevent matting.

Special attention should also be paid to the ears. Hair growing inside the ear canal can collect earwax and dirt. With the appropriate knowledge and care, this hair should be gently removed from the ear canal when necessary to help prevent irritation and inflammation.

The hair between the paw pads should also be checked and trimmed when needed. This helps prevent dirt from collecting and, during winter, stops clumps of snow from forming between the pads and causing discomfort when walking.

The nails also require regular care. They should be trimmed when necessary, with particular attention paid to the dewclaws.

Anyone who does not feel confident doing this themselves can consult an experienced professional groomer who is familiar with the Lagotto Romagnolo.

Another option is to attend a grooming seminar offered by one of the various professional providers.

Conclusion: If you're looking for an active, eager-to-please, and above all, friendly dog who's a lot of fun to be around and isn't afraid of the work that comes with such an active dog, then you have a loyal companion who wants to experience everything with their family. A dog who loves being the center of attention and wants to be loved and cuddled.

This is purely our personal view of the breed, which has intensified over the last few years due to several factors.