THE Breed
Prized for their affectionate, non-aggressive temperament and loyal nature, they make delightful family pets that interact well with children and adults.
Personality
The Lagotto is a very intelligent, loving companion who likes to spend lots of time with his people and at play. They take well to training when it’s done in a positive, structured manner and love ample rewards of food treats, praise and affection from their owners.
APPEARANCE
The breed standard colours include Brown; Brown with White markings; Brown Roan (a blend of light to dark brown giving a heathered-effect coat); solid Off-White; White with Brown markings; Orange (a sandy blonde) and Orange with White markings.
EXERCISE
Since the breed is historically an Italian working farmyard dog, it is used to spending a considerable amount of time outdoors being exercised. It is best suited to a large yard/garden with ample space to roam. Additionally, being a highly intelligent dog, it is better to seek out interesting countryside walks rather than repetitive block walking, which can lead to boredom and mischievous behaviour. Swimming is an ideal exercise as its ancestors are water dogs and Lagottos LOVE to swim and fetch!
Feeding
Recommended daily amount: 1.5 cups of high-quality dry food a day or a combination of wet and dry, divided into two meals.
Grooming
With a non-shedding coat, it is necessary to groom the coat approximately 5 times a year – all the more so if you live in a hot climate, where it is desirable to keep the coat close-clipped, as we have done with our dogs in The Bahamas, Florida and in summer in France. They are fairly easy to groom and otherwise need only occasional nail trims and brushing to keep their coat matt free. We begin grooming the puppies at a young age so they learn to enjoy the cuddles and attention.
Nb Be sure to take a photo of a Lagotto to your grooming salon, as they may not know the breed (even though they say they do). After Bella’s first salon visit she came out with a straight blow-dry and a poodle cut!
HEALTH
The primary genetic diseases of the breed are Juvenile Epilepsy (JE) and Lysosomol Storage Disease (LSD). Our dam and sire are DNA tested fully clear of these diseases. As careful breeders, we have undertaken a full DNA panel testing including furnishings, plus hip and elbow dysplasia tests and eye tests to ensure the best health and breed appearance of our puppies.
Lagottos get along very well with young children and with other animals
Lagottos are outdoor dogs who love to run, swim and play. They do require a moderate level of exercise, but can be left alone for long periods
Lagottos make excellent watchdogs and will alert their owners to approaching strangers, but it’s not their style to bark without cause
Roma’s grandfather – An award-winning Champion in Conformation and a Champion in Beauty – it’s easy to see where she gets her looks and her signature markings!