Given that the coat is non-shedding, it will, in time, felt and thus the coat must be clipped off at least once a year. The companion or working Lagotto is usually clipped two or three times a year depending on the rate of hair growth. Show dogs are usually clipped 10 to 12 weeks before a major show and scissored between shows to maintain the outline.<\/p>\n

Heads are not clipped, as the coat on the head is much slower-growing. Scissoring to maintain head shape is preferable.<\/p>\n

When prepared for the show ring, the length of the coat should be about 1.5 inches (4 cm) springing back to about 3\/4 inch (2 cm), and must evenly follow the line of the dog. It can be longer on the head, but must not obscure the eyes. It is permitted to remove hair in the genital\/anal area.<\/p>\n

A dog presented like a Poodle or Bichon Frise, clipped, sculptured or in any way glamorized, is highly undesirable. The correct coat presentation is functional and helps to maintain and enhance the rustic look that is typical of the breed.<\/p>\n

The Lagotto is normally clipped using an Oster No. 10. If a midwinter clip is necessary, No. 8.5 is more suitable. The Lagotto also requires regular bathing, particularly its beard, and must always be allowed to dry naturally. Remember, the coat must never be brushed or combed while it is wet.<\/p>\n

From 7 weeks of age, the puppy should be groomed every few days, using a medium-toothed steel comb. Between 10 and 12 weeks, the coat on the head and body should be scissored to about 3\/4 inch (2cm) in length. The hair on the tail is trimmed to 1\/2 inch (1cm).<\/p>\n

At 5 months of age, a Lagotto is ready for its first clipping, which is undertaken with an Oster No. 10 or No. 8.5, depending on the time of year. The development of the desirable curls can be greatly increased by frequent clipping in the first two years of a dog’s life.<\/p>\n

Grooming Procedure<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

Equipment needed:<\/strong><\/em>\u00a0 Good-quality medium-toothed steel comb. Plastic or composite combs are not strong enough. A steel de-matter, good-quality slicker, and wide-blade grooming scissors are also required.<\/p>\n

Breed tip:<\/strong><\/em>\u00a0 When grooming \u2014 whether for a show, working or companion dog \u2014 it is important that the finished dog presents a thoroughly functional, appearance. Although of small size, the Lagotto is a working dog, not a large toy dog.<\/p>\n

Three days before the show, comb and demat the coat, bathe and dry naturally. Two days before, scissor over any loose curls to maintain the outline. The morning of the show, spray the coat lightly with water to encourage it to curl.<\/p>\n