Understanding the Health and Care of the Lagotto Romagnolo

Quick answer

The Lagotto Romagnolo is a resilient and energetic breed that requires significant mental and physical engagement to thrive. While generally robust, owners should be aware of specific orthopedic and neurological conditions that are recognised in the breed. By focusing on consistent training, regular coat maintenance, and prompt veterinary assessment of any changes in gait or behavior, you can provide the best possible care for your companion.

Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia involves an abnormal development of the hip joint. You might first notice your dog struggling to rise from a lying position, showing a hesitant or swaying gait, or appearing reluctant to jump or climb stairs. At the clinic, a veterinarian will perform a physical examination to check for joint laxity and pain. A definitive diagnosis is typically confirmed through radiographs, which allow the vet to visualize the fit of the hip joint. This is a well recognised condition in the breed. The common mistake owners make is waiting too long to seek help, assuming the dog is simply tired or aging, which can allow joint damage to progress unnecessarily.

Elbow Dysplasia

Elbow dysplasia refers to a collection of developmental abnormalities in the elbow joint. Owners often notice a subtle limp in the front limbs, which may worsen after exercise. The dog might also hold the affected limb outward while standing. A veterinarian will manipulate the joint to assess range of motion and discomfort. Imaging, such as X-rays or advanced scans, is used to identify the specific nature of the joint irregularity. This is a recognised tendency in the breed. It is vital to address any persistent lameness early, as ignoring these signs can lead to chronic joint inflammation and reduced mobility.

Benign Familial Juvenile Epilepsy

This neurological condition manifests as seizures that typically occur in younger dogs. You may observe sudden tremors, loss of balance, or rhythmic muscle contractions. Because these episodes can be frightening, it is helpful to record a video of the behavior to show your veterinarian. The vet will likely perform a neurological exam and may recommend blood tests or other diagnostics to rule out other causes of seizure activity. This is a well recognised condition in the breed. The most important action is to keep the dog safe during an episode by clearing away furniture and avoiding physical contact with the mouth.

Lagotto Storage Disease

This is a complex metabolic condition that affects the nervous system. Owners might notice signs such as changes in behavior, uncoordinated movement, or unusual eye flicking. Because the clinical signs can be varied, a veterinarian will conduct a thorough neurological evaluation and may discuss genetic testing to confirm the diagnosis. How this passes down is not settled, making it a condition that requires careful monitoring. If you notice persistent behavioral changes or motor difficulties, seek veterinary attention immediately to discuss the possibility of this condition.

Cataracts

Cataracts involve the clouding of the lens within the eye, which can eventually lead to vision loss. You may notice a milky or opaque appearance in your dog's eyes or observe that they seem hesitant in low-light environments. A veterinarian will use specialized lights and magnification to examine the structures of the eye. This is a recognised tendency in the breed. While cataracts are not always an emergency, they should be monitored regularly by a professional to manage any secondary inflammation or pressure changes within the eye.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy

Progressive Retinal Atrophy is a condition that causes the gradual degeneration of the cells in the retina, leading to impaired vision and eventual blindness. Owners often notice that their dog struggles to navigate familiar spaces at night or seems startled by movements they should be able to see. A veterinarian will perform an ophthalmic exam to assess the health of the retina. This is a well recognised condition in the breed. Because this condition is painless but progressive, the main goal is to adapt your home environment to assist your dog as their vision changes.