Lagotto Romagnolo Puppies for Sale
Recognized by: AKC, FCI, KC, UKC
About the Lagotto Romagnolo
The Lagotto Romagnolo is an ancient Italian water dog from the Romagna region, now the world's premier truffle-hunting breed. Compact and sturdy with a dense, woolly, curly coat that is nearly waterproof and low-shedding, it has an endearing teddy-bear look and a keen, tireless nose. Originally a marsh retriever, it transitioned to searching for prized truffles as wetlands were drained. Affectionate, keen, and eager to please, the Lagotto is intelligent and highly trainable, thriving on scent games and mental work. It bonds closely with family, is generally good with children and dogs, and needs coat maintenance. Recognized by the AKC in the Sporting Group.
Every dog is an individual — genetics, socialization, health, training, and environment matter more than breed averages.
Typical tendencies
Scored against PuppyList’s editorial rubric. Tendencies, not guarantees.
Exercise needsHigher than most
Energy levelHigher than most
TrainabilityHigher than most
Grooming effortHigher than most
SheddingMinimal
BarkingTypical
Apartment fitTypical
Good with childrenHigher than most
Good with other dogsHigher than most
First-time ownersHigher than most
1 active listing
Search all puppies →Available now in:New York (1)
Where this breed shines
- Low-shedding, allergy-friendlier curly coat
- Exceptional nose and highly trainable for scent work
- Affectionate, adaptable, and generally long-lived family dog
Things to consider
- Curly coat needs regular trimming and can mat if neglected
- High intelligence and energy demand mental stimulation
- Loves to dig, a legacy of its truffle-hunting heritage
History
The Lagotto Romagnolo worked the lagoons and marshes of Romagna as a water retriever for centuries, its name deriving from the local dialect for lake dog. As the wetlands were drained in the 19th and 20th centuries, its role shifted to truffle hunting, for which its nose and methodical searching proved ideal. The breed was formally standardized in Italy in the late 20th century and recognized by the AKC in 2015.
Temperament
Lagotti are affectionate, alert, and devoted to their families, combining a working dog's focus with a companionable, even-tempered nature. They are highly intelligent and enjoy problem-solving, excelling at scent work, obedience, and canine sports. Generally friendly with children and other dogs, they can be reserved with strangers and make attentive watchdogs. Their eagerness to please makes them responsive to positive training.
Questions to ask a Lagotto Romagnolo breeder
- Do you DNA test for benign familial juvenile epilepsy and storage disease?
- Are hips and eyes screened in your breeding dogs?
- How do you introduce puppies to scent work and grooming?
Health considerations to discuss
Benign familial juvenile epilepsy. A breed-specific seizure disorder in puppies; DNA testing of parents avoids affected litters.
Lagotto storage disease. A neurodegenerative condition; a DNA test identifies carriers.
Hip dysplasia and hereditary eye disorders. Screen breeding stock for joints and eyes.
Informational only — always consult a veterinarian and ask breeders for documentation. Sources: American Kennel Club · The Kennel Club — written by PuppyList editorial
Questions worth asking about any Lagotto Romagnolo litter
- Can I see the puppy and its mother — in person or on a live video call?
- What health checks, vaccinations, and vet visits has this litter had?
- How was the litter raised and socialized?
- What paperwork comes with the puppy (health records, registry papers if applicable)?
- What is your deposit, payment, and pickup/transport process?
Frequently asked questions
How do I buy a Lagotto Romagnolo puppy on PuppyList?
Browse the Lagotto Romagnolo listings on this page, open one to see photos, details, and the breeder's information, then contact the breeder directly. PuppyList is a marketplace — you arrange the purchase with the breeder yourself.
How much do Lagotto Romagnolo puppies cost?
Listed puppies are priced at $4,000. Each breeder sets their own price, which varies with the puppy's age, lineage, and location.
How can I tell if a Lagotto Romagnolo breeder is trustworthy?
Contact the breeder, ask for recent photos or a video of the actual puppy, and confirm details before you commit. Never send money before verifying. See our listing guidelines for the full buyer-safety checklist.