When you decide to welcome a Lagotto Romagnolo into your home, you are not just choosing a pet; you are making a long-term commitment to a living being. Consequently, understanding the genetic landscape of this ancient breed is the most critical step in your journey. While the Lagotto is generally a robust and hardy dog, like all purebreds, it is susceptible to specific hereditary conditions.
At Golden Truffle Lagotto, we believe that transparency is the hallmark of a responsible breeder. Therefore, we have created this comprehensive guide to help you understand what health tests are non-negotiable.
1. Why Health Testing is Paramount for the Lagotto Breed
The Lagotto Romagnolo was brought back from the brink of extinction in the 1970s. Because the initial breeding pool was small, certain genetic markers became more prevalent. However, thanks to modern DNA science, we can now identify these markers and ensure they are not passed down to future generations.
The Role of DNA Screening
In addition to physical exams, DNA screening allows us to look deep into a dog’s genetic code. By doing so, we can guarantee that our puppies will not suffer from preventable, breed-specific diseases.
2. Breed-Specific Genetic Conditions Explained
There are three primary genetic tests that every reputable Lagotto breeder must perform.
Lagotto Storage Disease (LSD)
LSD is a serious neurodegenerative disorder unique to the breed. Furthermore, it is a progressive condition for which there is currently no cure.
- The Good News: Because this is a recessive trait, we can ensure that through careful pairing, no puppy ever develops this disease.
Juvenile Epilepsy (JE)
As the name suggests, this condition causes seizures in young puppies. Nevertheless, with proper DNA testing of the parents, this condition is entirely avoidable. At Golden Truffle Lagotto, all our breeding dogs are cleared for the JE marker.
Furnishing (Short Hair Gene)
While not a “health” issue per se, the furnishing gene determines the iconic curly coat. In contrast to the standard look, some dogs can carry a gene for short hair (Improper Coat). Testing ensures that your puppy will have the beautiful, non-shedding wool you expect.
3. Structural Health: Hips, Elbows, and Eyes
Beyond DNA, the physical structure of the dog must be evaluated. This is especially important for active breeds like the Lagotto, who love to run, swim, and dig.
Hip and Elbow Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is a condition where the joint does not fit perfectly into the socket. Consequently, it can lead to arthritis later in life. We use OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) or equivalent European standards to certify that our dogs have “Excellent” or “Good” hip ratings.
Annual Eye Exams (CAER)
Because Lagottos can be prone to cataracts and other eye issues, annual exams by a certified veterinary ophthalmologist are essential. Moreover, this ensures that the parents remain healthy as they age, providing a strong foundation for their litters.
4. How Golden Truffle Lagotto Ensures Puppy Wellness
Our commitment to health does not end with the parents. We implement a rigorous protocol for every puppy born in our home to ensure they thrive from day one.
Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS)
Starting from day three, we perform ENS exercises. As a result, our puppies show improved cardiovascular performance, stronger heartbeats, and greater resistance to stress.
A Proactive Veterinary Schedule
In addition to genetic certainty, every puppy follows a strict medical protocol including:
- Initial Vaccinations: Protecting against parvovirus and distemper.
- De-worming Cycles: Ensuring a healthy digestive system.
- Microchipping: For lifelong security and identification.
5. Summary: Your Health Checklist
In conclusion, a serious Lagotto Romagnolo breeder should be able to perform at least the following tests, wish is our priority at Golden Truffle Lagotto:
- DNA Clearances for LSD and JE.
- OFA/Hip Ratings for both parents.
- Current Eye Certifications.
Ultimately, your goal is to find a companion that will live a long, pain-free life. By choosing a breeder who prioritizes science over profit, you are setting your family up for years of joy.
