Water dogs are an FCI group of dog breeds. The dog breeds in this group include the Italian and the Spanish Water Dog.
The Italian Water Dog is also called Lagotto Romagnola, the Spanish Water Dog’s second name is “Perro de Agua Español”.
But what is the difference between the two? I will try to explain that to you.
General
There are three types of water dogs – the Portuguese, the Italian and the Spanish Water Dog. They are used for hunting and retrieving in water, but there are a number of important differences between these three breeds. We will focus only on the Italian and Spanish Water Dog.
The Spanish Water Dog is a somewhat older breed, dating back to the 14th century. They were originally bred in Spain as working dogs and were used for herding, hunting, and retrieving game from the water.
The Lagotto is a relatively new breed, dating back to the 15th century. They were bred in Italy as working dogs and were used for retrieving game from the water.
Lagotto Romagnolo / Italian Water Dog
This breed originally comes from the Romagna region in Italy.
The Lagotto is a medium-sized dog. They have a square-built body and their head is round. Their coat is curly and dense. The coat can be brown, white, black, or a mix of these colors. The coat requires little maintenance, but should be trimmed every few months. This breed is hypoallergenic and does not shed.
The Lagotto is an intelligent breed and is easy to train. They are good with children and other animals. This breed needs daily exercise, but can live in an apartment if they are walked regularly.
Spanish Water Dog
The Spanish Water Dog is a water dog breed that originates from the Andalusia region in Spain.
The Spanish Water Dog is a medium-sized dog. They have a long, square-built body and their head is wedge-shaped. Their coat is curly or wavy and can be black, brown, gray, or white. The coat requires little maintenance, but should be trimmed every few months. This breed is hypoallergenic and does not shed.
The Spanish Water Dog is an intelligent breed and easy to train. They are good with children and other animals. This breed needs daily exercise, but can live in an apartment if extra exercise is provided.
Temperament
The Italian and Spanish Water Dogs are friendly and very sociable. They are intelligent and alert. Because of their intelligence, they are easy to train.
Their sense of smell is well developed. A fun fact about the Lagotto is that it is sometimes called the Truffle Dog. They were used in the past (and still are) to locate truffles in Italy
Another difference between the two breeds lies in their temperament. The Spanish Water Dog is an independent and spirited breed, while the Lagotto is more affectionate and gentle.
Appearance
Although both breeds are excellent swimmers and retrievers, there are some important differences between them. The most noticeable difference is in their build and coat.
The Spanish Water Dog is a muscular dog with a thick, oily coat that repels water. They have a broad head and chest, and their tails are thick and long. They range in size from 45 to 60 centimeters at the shoulder and weigh 13 to 22 kilograms.
The Lagotto is smaller and lighter than the Spanish Water Dog, with a thin, wiry coat that tangles easily. They have a narrow head and chest, and their tails are short and stubby. They range in size from 40 to 55 centimeters at the shoulder and weigh 9 to 18 kilograms.
Suitable as a family dog
The Lagotto is an ideal family dog. They are gentle, affectionate, and intelligent. They get along well with children and other animals.
The Spanish Water Dog is also a good family dog. They are intelligent and easy to train. However, their independent temperament may not suit every family.
Exercise
Both breeds have a lot of energy and require daily exercise. However, the Lagotto is more active and livelier than the Spanish Water Dog.
The Lagotto needs an hour of exercise per day. They are a good breed for people who enjoy walking, running, or swimming.
The Spanish Water Dog needs at least 30 minutes of exercise per day. They love swimming and retrieving games. Are you considering buying an Italian Water Dog? Then read this thorough article for more information.
Grooming
The Lagotto Romagnolo has a curly, dense coat that needs trimming every few months. The coat is hypoallergenic and does not shed.
The Spanish Water Dog has a curly or wavy coat that needs trimming every few months. The coat is also hypoallergenic and does not shed.
Which breed is best for you?
The Lagotto is a good choice for people looking for a smaller, more active dog. They are easy to train and make excellent pets.
The Spanish Water Dog is a good choice for people looking for an intelligent, easy-to-train dog. They are good with children and make great family pets.
Conclusion
So, which breed is right for you? If you are looking for a large, independent working dog, the Spanish Water Dog could be a good choice. If you are looking for a smaller, more affectionate breed, the Lagotto Romagnolo might be a better choice.
We at Woefkesranch can help you further with the Italian Water Dog. Via this link you can find more information about this breed.
Via this link you can read reviews from our customers with Lagottos. View our Lagotto Romagnolo puppies for sale on the Woefkesranch website for more information.