Aworking dog classified in FCI’S Group 8 (Retrievers, Spaniels, and Water dogs), the Lagotto is a small to medium sized dog distinguished by its curly, water resistant double coat.

Males should be 17 to 19 inches (18 is ideal) at the withers, and 29 to 35 pounds. Females are to be 16 to 18 inches (17 is ideal), and 24 to 31 pounds in weight.

Its colouring varies from any shade of solid brown to solid orange, solid off white, white with brown or orange markings, or brown roan. It's coat is wooly in texture, semi-rough on the surface, with very thick, ring-shaped curls, and a visible undercoat.

The following list is a selection of important characteristics that help distinguish Lagotti:

1. Medium-small size with slight mesomorphic general structure
2. Moderately massive head, trapezoidal form when seen from above
3. Stout, muscular neck, slightly shorter than head
4. Long, muscular, strong shoulders & strong chest
5. Rectilinear, muscular back
6. Robust, compact torso
7. Short, very robust hips, well linked up with back and rump

8. Long, large, muscular, slightly tilted rump
   
9. Thick curly hair (ring shaped curls) of slightly rough, woolly texture with visible undercoat
   
10. Particularly strong olfactory sense & good searching instinct
    
11. Eyelashes are very prominent. Eyes have attentive, intelligent, lively look.
    
12. Sensible, happy, affectionate, robust & agile little dog.

A happy, friendly dog, with surprisingly few inherited diseases and a longer than average life span, the Lagotto is an ideal family companion. SUMMARY

The Lagotto is a retriever type dog, rather than a water dog. A small to medium sized dog with a stout & very well proportioned appearance, it is distinguished primarily by its water resistant double coat.

Extroverted and lively as a puppy, it will grow up to be a happy, sensible, affectionate dog that is easy to train.

As a robust working breed, it functions equally well as a waterfowler or truffler, and makes an excellent family companion & good warning dog.