The Lagotto Romagnolo is one of the oldest Italian dog breeds, with a fascinating history and a unique evolution in the world of canine breeds. Originally bred as a retrieving dog in the marshy valleys of Romagna, it is today recognized as the only dog genetically selected for truffle hunting, thanks to a perfect combination of scent, focus, obedience, and passion for work.

Ancient Origins: Marshes and Land Reclamation

The earliest records of the Lagotto date back to the 16th century, in the wetlands of the Comacchio Valleys and the lower Romagna plains. In this harsh environment, a resilient dog with great adaptability was needed, capable of working in cold water and dense vegetation. The Lagotto – whose name derives from the dialect “can lagòt” (water dog) – was used to retrieve waterfowl, already demonstrating versatility and a collaborative spirit.

However, with the progressive reclamation of the land, the Lagotto lost its original function. This environmental change marked the beginning of a new era for the breed: it was observed that some dogs showed specific traits such as an especially developed sense of smell and a natural inclination for searching.

The Transition to Truffle Hunting

Already in the second half of the 19th century, in various areas of the Tuscan-Romagnolo Apennines, the Lagotto Romagnolo began to be used consistently for truffle hunting, initially as an aid for farmers and local hunters, and gradually becoming the central figure. Its natural traits – concentration, ability to work on the ground, indifference to distracting smells, and desire to please the handler – made it superior to other breeds occasionally used for the same purpose.

Targeted breeding began at the end of the 20th century, aiming to establish the Lagotto as the ultimate truffle-hunting dog: a task carried out with rigor by breeders and enthusiasts, in collaboration with official canine organizations.

Official Recognition and International Spread

In 1995, the Lagotto Romagnolo was officially recognized by the FCI (Fédération Cynologique Internationale) as a truffle-hunting breed, distinguishing itself as the only dog in the world with this official specialization. Since then, interest in the breed has steadily grown, in Italy and abroad, among both professional truffle hunters and enthusiasts, thanks also to its balanced temperament and suitability for family life.

Today, the Lagotto Romagnolo is present in numerous countries and is used not only for truffle hunting but also in sports and social activities, without ever losing its primary role: that of an indefatigable and precise truffle-hunting dog.

A Scent Refined Through the Centuries

The Lagotto’s sense of smell is not merely a behavioral trait: it is the result of careful genetic selection, passed down through generations of breeders who prioritized dogs with the finest olfactory abilities. This makes the Lagotto Romagnolo not only an excellent truffle dog but also a breed unique in the world for its history, dedication, and vocation.