Who is this breed suited to?
A Lagotto suits someone who enjoys scent-based activities and is willing to learn curly-coat care, rather than choosing solely for the teddy-bear appearance.
Daily time commitment
RKC adult exercise guidance exceeds two hours daily. Nose-work and searching games are useful outlets for a breed now associated with truffles.
Coat and everyday care
Comb and maintain the curls several times weekly, and arrange appropriate trimming; check the coat and ears after wet or muddy searching.
Challenges to plan for
Truffle-searching ability reflects an outlet to develop, not a promise of effortless training. Provide structured tasks and teach recovery after excitement.
How does it compare?
The Irish Water Spaniel is another curly breed with water-retrieving history, but the Lagotto's modern specialist role is truffle finding.
Questions to ask a breeder
What scent work do your Lagotti practise? Can you demonstrate coat maintenance and share the parents' health screening, handling history and everyday behaviour?
Sources and further reading
Reviewed October 2026. Breed tendencies are not a prediction for an individual dog. Exercise guidance concerns healthy adults; age, condition and weather change the plan.