As well as having the potential to be a working dog, the Lagotto makes an excellent family companion and a good warning dog (with a Lagotto sleeping on your landing you need never fear someone trying to break into your house without you knowing as, unlike many breeds, Lagotto sleep with one ear open). The Lagotto has an acute sense of hearing and although he is not a “yappy” dog he can be quite vocal if strangers are in the vicinity of his home. Lagotto are quire territorial and they may take a time before admitting strangers into their personal space.
Obviously dogs differ in the amount of working ability they inherit and it is important that the puppy’s particular temperament suits the lifestyle that it is destined for. Whilst most Lagotto develop into sensible friendly dogs, some are obviously more suited to being urban companion dogs (latent couch potatoes) whilst others show that streak of independence and hunting ability that makes them suitable for a family with an active lifestyle. A breeder will be able to help in matching the lifestyle of any prospective owners with puppies available.