Thank you for your interest in NW Lagotto. We are thrilled that you have considered one of our puppies as we continue to take applications.   There is a lot of info available I would encourage you to check out the "updates" section for the latest news and information. Chai was bred to Roman mid-Dec. and had pups Feb 15. She is a European import and brings great genetics to our kennel. Chino was bred to Roman at the end of Dec and had her pups Feb 27th. We still have a few spots in both these litters. Chino is in fact a repeat of a breeding we did 15 months ago as the pups turned out so beautifully. We are looking forward to final health tests from Elizabeth & Francesca (Swedish imports) and then to Olive and Willow in the coming weeks (months?). If they all test well we will welcome litters from them on their next cycle following the tests and expect puppies in the middle of the year. There are another 4 girls who will come of age later this year and once health tested we look forward to welcoming them to our program. We have had a waitlist that has extended as long as a year but are currently enjoying some relief in that regard. As such if you are interested in working with us as your breeder we have puppy for you from Chai or Chino’s litter who are now ready to go home.  Chino is out of Cannella. Her half-sister won the AKC National Championships in 2019. This may be the bloodline that I am most excited about. Cannella herself is an Italian Champion and has won an invitation to CRUFTS in the UK. Her pups are each unique and if they health test well I really like what each brings to the table. These pups while available are either roan with brown spots or white with brown spots. We work hard with our puppies through ENS puppy culture protocols and intentional socialization. The results speak for themselves in the words of those who have brought one of our puppies home - see our testimonials page! Our puppies are great with children make excellent companions are superb as therapy dogs and are also excellent on trails foraging and hiking. Please check out of Puppy page for more info on pricing and delivery/pickup options

Lagotto Romagnolo: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care

The Lagotto Romagnolo is a breed of dog that originated in Italy. Initially bred as a water retriever, this versatile breed has gained popularity as a skilled truffle hunter in recent years. Lagotto Romagnolos are known for their intelligence, energy, and affectionate nature. Here are some key characteristics and care tips for this breed:

1. Appearance: The Lagotto Romagnolo is a medium-sized dog with a sturdy build. They have a curly, woolly coat that is hypoallergenic, making them a great choice for individuals with allergies. Their coat comes in various colors, including solid off-white, brown, or a combination of brown and white.

2. Temperament: Lagotto Romagnolos are highly intelligent, eager to please, and trainable. They are affectionate and form strong bonds with their family members. This breed is generally good with children and gets along well with other dogs. However, early socialization and proper training are important to ensure they grow up to be well-rounded adults.

3. Exercise: Lagotto Romagnolos have a moderate to high energy level and require regular exercise to keep them mentally and physically stimulated. They enjoy activities such as walking, jogging, playing fetch, and participating in dog sports like agility or obedience training. Providing them with daily exercise will help prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.

4. Mental Stimulation: Due to their intelligence and working background, Lagotto Romagnolos thrive on mental stimulation. Engage them in activities that challenge their problem-solving abilities, such as puzzle toys or scent games. They excel in scent work and can be trained to search for hidden objects or truffles.

5. Grooming: The Lagotto Romagnolo's curly coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and maintain its quality. They do not shed heavily but require brushing at least once a week to remove tangles and debris. Their coat may need professional grooming every few months to keep it in optimal condition.

6. Truffle Hunting: Lagotto Romagnolos have a natural instinct for truffle hunting and can be trained to become skilled truffle hunters. If you plan to engage your Lagotto in truffle hunting, it's essential to seek guidance from experienced trainers or join truffle hunting clubs to learn the proper techniques.

7. Health: Generally, Lagotto Romagnolos are a healthy breed. However, like all dogs, they may be prone to certain health conditions, including hip dysplasia, epilepsy, and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy weight can contribute to their overall well-being.

Remember, responsible dog ownership involves providing proper nutrition, regular exercise, mental stimulation, and regular veterinary care to keep your Lagotto Romagnolo happy and healthy.