The name of the breed reveals its origins; the expansive marshes of the Romagne district of Italy, where Lagotto (Italian dialect for curly coated duck retriever) were valued for their ability to retrieve ducks from water. The draining of the marshes in the early 1900s led to the decline of duck hunting and there was less demand for dogs to work to their traditional purpose. However, an alternative use was soon found for him: his natural scenting ability made him ideal as a truffle hunter and in his native land that is now seen as his primary purpose.

Although it is thought that the breed has been known in Italy for centuries, it was not recognised by the Italian Kennel Club until 1991, since when it has spread worldwide. In countries outside Italy where the truffle does not exist, the breed is seen primarily as a water retriever, aided for this purpose by his water-resistant double coat of tight curls.

The growth in popularity of the breed as a show dog has brought a fairly rapid increase of registrations in all countries. The coat, in a variety of colours, and skilful preparations of it, makes the Lagotto an eye-catching dog in the gundog group, but it is to be hoped that the breed does not lose its essentially ‘rustic’ or workmanlike appearance.

The Lagotto is sociable with other animals and loves human companionship. He can adapt to urban living, but retains his hunting ability and enjoys an active lifestyle. His coat has the attraction of being non-shedding, but it does require clipping at least once a year.