King Charles 'smitten' with first new dog in decades
King Charles is said to be 'smitten' with his new pet dog, a curly-haired Lagotto Romagnolo named Snuff. This news comes just days after it was announced that Queen Camilla rescued a dog called Mole.
The King is known to be an animal lover but hasn't had a pet since 2002, when his beloved Jack Russell Terrier, Tigga, sadly passed away.
Snuff is undoubtedly bringing fresh energy to the royal household, named after his dog breed's ability to sniff out truffles. 'King Charles is reportedly smitten with Snuff,' HELLO reported regarding the new arrival.
In addition to being an excellent forager, the breed is known for winning Best in Show at Crufts back in 2023, which gives the previously relatively unknown breed great kudos.
Orca, a four-year-old curly coated Lagotto Romagnolo, was the first ever win at Crufts for a dog of that breed and was praised for her infectious personality with a 'tail that never stopped wagging'.
It makes sense for the King to have opted for such a prestigious breed. Like Charles, Lagotto Romagnolo also suits owners who enjoy an active lifestyle and countryside pursuits.
Bill Lambert, Kennel Club spokesperson, explains: "The Lagotto Romagnolo is a wonderful breed and seems to be very well suited to His Majesty the King, who enjoys truffle hunting and an active lifestyle, which this breed is perfectly suited for.
"The striking breed, which is not numerous in this country, was crowned as winner of Crufts in 2023, and we saw its popularity reach peak levels at that time.
"Crufts wins generally have a limited impact on breed popularity, but in the smaller and lesser-known breeds, it can raise profile and awareness."
Since Snuff was put into the spotlight, the Kennel Club reports that searches for the breed have risen by a huge 723%. Meanwhile, searches for puppies within the breed on The Kennel Club’s Find a Puppy site also increased by 190% in the same time frame.
"Snuff's arrival in the royal household will likely boost interest in the breed, as the late Queen's Pembrokeshire Corgi famously peaked in popularity at key moments in the spotlight, such as after the coronation and following its moment in the TV series The Crown," Bill Lambert explains.
However, he also reiterates the importance of thoroughly researching a breed before investing in a new pet.
“We urge would-be owners to remember that research really is king when looking for a breed of dog," he continued.
"And if people want to find out more about this breed or any of the other 200 dog breeds in the UK then Crufts – with its unique Discover Dogs zone - starts today [Thursday, 6th March], where people can talk to experts and meet and greet the huge variety of breeds in this country."
Crufts, which showcases over 200 different breeds over four days, with one ‘top dog’ crowned Best in Show, begins on Thursday, 6 March at the NEC in Birmingham.
Tickets are available at crufts.org.uk.
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