Exploring Genetic Health Concerns in Lagotto Romagnolo Lines: What You Need to Know

The Lagotto Romagnolo, an ancient Italian breed cherished for its truffle-hunting prowess and loving demeanor, is generally healthy but susceptible to certain genetic conditions. As responsible breeders, Northwest Lagotto, use rigorous genetic testing and selective breeding to manage these challenges, ensuring the breed’s vitality and quality of life. Below, we explore the primary genetic health concerns for Lagotto Romagnolos and how careful breeding practices help safeguard this remarkable breed.

Key Genetic Conditions in Lagotto Romagnolos

Lagotto Storage Disease (LSD)

Lagotto Storage Disease is a severe neurodegenerative disorder unique to the breed. Symptoms, which can appear between four months and four years, include incoordination, poor balance, and behavioral changes like aggression. Caused by a lysosomal storage defect, LSD often leads to a poor prognosis, with many affected dogs facing a shortened lifespan. About 11% of Lagottos are carriers, making genetic testing essential. Responsible breeders test for LSD and avoid pairing carriers with affected dogs or other carriers to eliminate the risk of affected puppies.

Benign Familial Juvenile Epilepsy (BFJE)

BFJE affects young puppies, causing seizures as early as five weeks old. These typically resolve by 8–13 weeks, but some dogs remain asymptomatic carriers. While the condition rarely persists into adulthood, testing is crucial to identify carriers and prevent breeding combinations that could produce affected offspring. Through diligent screening, breeders have reduced BFJE’s prevalence, but it remains a key focus for health testing.

Hip Dysplasia and Patellar Luxation

Hip dysplasia, a hereditary orthopedic condition, results from abnormal hip joint development, potentially leading to mobility issues and arthritis. Though manageable with weight control, exercise, or surgery in severe cases, screening for good hip scores is vital to reduce its incidence. Similarly, patellar luxation—where the kneecap dislocates—can occur and may require monitoring or surgical correction. Breeders prioritize testing to minimize these risks.

Hyperuricosuria (HUU)

HUU predisposes Lagottos to urinary stones due to elevated uric acid levels, which can cause painful blockages. Genetic testing identifies carriers, enabling breeders to avoid pairings that could produce affected puppies. Management may involve dietary changes or, in severe cases, surgery.

Cerebellar Abiotrophy

This less common neurological disorder causes degeneration in the cerebellum, affecting balance and coordination. While rare, it shortens life expectancy, making genetic screening valuable for early detection and prevention.

Other Considerations

The furnishing gene mutation, which results in a short coat rather than the breed’s signature curls, is a cosmetic issue that deviates from breed standards. Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), specifically prcd-PRA, can lead to vision loss but is monitored through genetic testing. Both conditions are managed through careful breeding to maintain the breed’s health and appearance.

The Role of Genetic Diversity

The Lagotto Romagnolo’s near extinction in the 1970s reduced its genetic diversity, increasing the risk of inherited conditions. Responsible breeders counteract this by using DNA testing for disorders like LSD, BFJE, HUU, and PRA, ensuring only healthy dogs are bred. At Northwest Lagotto, we prioritize health alongside temperament, using advanced tools to select pairings that enhance genetic diversity and reduce the risk of hereditary issues.

How Northwest Lagotto Protects the Breed

Our commitment to the Lagotto Romagnolo goes beyond producing charming companions. By leveraging genetic testing and thoughtful breeding practices, we aim to preserve the breed’s health and vitality. Our puppies, raised in a nurturing family environment, reflect this dedication, offering families resilient, healthy dogs ready to thrive as both working partners and loyal companions.

Interested in a healthy, well-bred Lagotto Romagnolo? Contact us at nwlagotto@gmail.com to join our waitlist for our Summer 2025 litter and bring home a vibrant, genetically sound companion from Northwest Lagotto.