Full Grown Lagotto Romagnolo

The Lagotto Romagnolo is a versatile breed of dog known for its skill in truffle hunting. As puppies, Lagottos are playful and energetic. But what happens when they reach full maturity?

This guide covers everything you need to know about a fully grown Lagotto Romagnolo, from appearance and personality to care needs and suitability as a pet.

About the Breed

The Lagotto Romagnolo originates from the Romagna region of Italy, where it has been used as a truffle hunter for centuries. Small but sturdy, Lagottos have dense curly coats and webbed feet that help them work in forests.

They were originally bred as companion dogs but are now renowned finders of the prized culinary delicacy, the truffle.

Size at Full Growth

On average, a fully grown Lagotto Romagnolo will reach the following size dimensions:

• Length: 16-18 inches
• Height: 12-15 inches
• Weight: 22-33 pounds

Both males and females reach full size between 12-18 months of age. Well-bred Lagottos will fall within the average size range, though individual dogs may be slightly bigger or smaller.

Appearance at Full Growth

At maturity, a Lagotto Romagnolo has the following distinguishing physical features:

• Dense, curly coat that is weather-resistant and comes in various shades like white, brown, orange, or gray
• Strong, compact body that is muscular yet agile
• Broad chest tapering to a narrow waist
• Webbed feet for swimming and truffle-hunting in wet conditions
• Expressive, intelligent face with dark eyes and long floppy ears
• Tail curls over the back when happy or interested

Personality at Full Growth

Here are some key things to know about a fully grown Lagotto Romagnolo's personality:

• Outgoing and eager to please their human companions
• Highly intelligent and easily trained, making them capable working dogs
• Affectionate pack mentality - they thrive on human interaction and do not do well if left alone for long periods
• Curious, playful spirits that retain a puppy-like zest for life into adulthood
• Loyal, devoted companions suitable for families with older children who can handle their energy
• Compatible with other dogs but may chase or bark at smaller pets due to their hunting instincts

Price

Because of their working pedigree and rarity as a breed, expect to pay $1,500-$3,000 or more for a well-bred Lagotto Romagnolo puppy from a reputable breeder. Adopted adult dogs may cost less.

Food and Feeding

At full size, feed a Lagotto Romagnolo 1-2 cups of high-quality dry dog food divided into two meals per day. The specific amount will depend on the individual dog's metabolism, activity level, and whether they are gaining or maintaining weight as per your vet's advice. Always use food made for adult dogs rather than puppy formulas.

Lifespan

With proper care, the average lifespan of a Lagotto Romagnolo is 12-15 years.

Health at Full Growth

In general, the Lagotto Romagnolo is a healthy breed. However, like all purebred dogs, they are prone to certain genetic conditions. Things to watch for in a mature Lagotto include:

• Hip dysplasia - common cause of lameness
• Elbow dysplasia - joint abnormality that causes arthritis
• Skin allergies - may develop seasonal or food sensitivities
• Eye issues - like progressive retinal atrophy
• Von Willebrand's disease - bleeding disorder

Regular veterinary checkups are needed to monitor health and catch any problems early.

Care and Nutritional Needs

Proper care of a fully grown Lagotto Romagnolo involves:

• Brushing curly coat 2-3 times per week to prevent matting
• Trimming nails as needed - about once every 2-4 weeks
• Brushing teeth 2-3 times weekly to prevent dental disease
• Daily exercise like walks, playtime, or dog sports to burn energy
• Clean ears weekly to avoid infection - never insert objects in ears
• Yearly vaccines and deworming as recommended by vet

As described earlier, high-quality dry kibble is the best diet for adult nutritional needs.

Costs of Ownership

Expect the following average costs for owning a fully grown Lagotto Romagnolo:

• $500-700 per year for high-quality food, treats, toys,
• $300-500 per year for preventive veterinary care like vaccines and checkups
• $1000-2000 emergency medical costs if major illness or injury occurs
• $10-30 per month for flea/tick prevention depending on product
• $50-100 per month dog walker or daycare if home alone 9+ hours daily
• $200-300 for training and obedience classes as desired

Possible Behavioral Changes

No major changes should occur in a well-adjusted, properly exercised Lagotto Romagnolo as it reaches full maturity compared to adolescence. However, some dogs may develop dominance-related issues if not given consistent leadership. Early puppy training establishes the owner as pack leader.

Notable Characteristics

Some of the most prominent traits of an adult Lagotto Romagnolo include its keen scent ability, playful yet focused working drive, attachment to owners, and intelligence that can make training fun challenges like tracking or agility.

When is it Truly Full-Grown?

Most veterinary sources define "adult" or "full grown" for Lagottos as reaching maturity between 12-18 months of age. However, the breed continues filling out musculature and may not be emotionally mature until closer to 2 years old. Full skeletal growth is generally complete within the first year.

Suitability as a Pet

The Lagotto Romagnolo can make an excellent family pet for the right owners. Its traits like intelligence, affection, and playfulness are rewarding for dog lovers. However, their high exercise demands and instinct for scent work mean they require substantial stimulation and engagement or may develop behavioral issues.

Overall this breed is most suitable for active households willing to provide professional training, daily interaction, and safe off-leash exercise areas.