We are very pleased to announce the full introduction of our Bergotto (Burr-go-Tow), this is a combination of the fantastic Bernese Mountain Dog and the Lagotto Romagnolo.  Coming from the north-eastern section of Italy, the earliest confirmed identification of the breed was from a fresco created by Andrea Mantegna in 1456, the name derives from Romagnol can lagòt, meaning "water dog". With a history similar to the poodle, both bred to be “water retrievers”, working dogs who were bred to bring downed foul to the hunting party. The main difference being size, with a Lagotto standard male being 43-48cm at the wither, and weight 13-16kg.  Throughout much of the Renaissance, art depicting hunting or dogs usually included a Lagotto, while many people in this current century would regard the dogs as Poodles, this is in fact incorrect as the Poodle was limited to Germany at the time.

These wonderful working dogs not only did retrieval work but were also trained to find truffles. This practice continued through the centuries until the marshy lands the Vallaroli “the folk of Comachhio and Romagna” were reclaimed and disappeared, then focused solely on truffle searching. They survived the wars and continued to be the best at what they do, but by the 1970s the breed was in dire straits.  The lackadaisical nature in which the owners managed the breed was a disaster. Like the Bernese, originating from Bern SUI, they were a common dog to the area, but the Bernese owners promoted them as a true breed to set standards and promote healthy dogs and breeding practises. By the 1970s the breed was on the verge of extinction, thanks to a few good men, Quintino Toschi and Prof. Francesco Ballotta with Dr Antonio Morsiani and Lodovico Babini. They saved the breed, their work and Lagotto clubs all over the world have brought back this magnificent dog to such healthy standards.

Why have we chosen them? The inherent traits of affection, playfulness, adaptability, health, trainability and their openness to other dogs, people and children make them an easy choice to bring to our program.  Over the last couple of years, we have had test litters to see what the puppies are like in regards to behaviour, size and temperament.  The feedback has led us here, to release this delightful addition to the program. Working great in both family and therapy situations, the Bergotto continues to succeed.