5 Fascinating Facts About Snuff: King Charles III’s New Dog And The Royal Family’s Biggest Canine Surprise

The world of royal pets has just witnessed a seismic shift, one that breaks a tradition spanning nearly a century, as King Charles III and Queen Camilla officially welcomed a new dog into the royal household in what has been reported as early 2025. This new addition, a curly-haired Lagotto Romagnolo puppy named Snuff, has instantly become one of the most talked-about members of the British monarchy, not only for his adorable appearance but because his breed marks a dramatic departure from the long-reigning dynasty of Pembroke Welsh Corgis and the more recent prominence of Jack Russell Terriers. The news, which surfaced in late 2024 and was confirmed in early 2025, has sent a wave of curiosity through dog lovers and royal watchers alike, eager to learn more about the King's first new dog in decades.

The acquisition of Snuff, a breed historically known as an Italian waterfowl retriever and, more famously, the world's only specialized truffle hunter, is a clear sign of King Charles’ independent approach to the monarchy, even in his choice of canine companion. This charming new puppy is said to have completely 'smitten' the King, bringing a fresh, energetic presence to the royal residences, including Buckingham Palace and Highgrove. As of this current date in December 2025, Snuff is settling into his new life alongside the Queen Consort’s two beloved rescue Jack Russell Terriers, Beth and Bluebell, and is already generating massive public interest, with experts predicting a significant surge in demand for the Lagotto Romagnolo breed across the United Kingdom and beyond.

The Royal Canine Companion: A Complete Profile of King Charles III’s Dogs

King Charles III has a well-documented and lifelong affinity for dogs, a passion he shares with his wife, Queen Camilla. While the late Queen Elizabeth II was synonymous with her Corgis, King Charles has always shown a preference for other breeds, particularly the spirited and intelligent Jack Russell Terrier. The introduction of Snuff, the Lagotto Romagnolo, adds an entirely new chapter to the royal dog history.

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The King’s Current Canine Household

• Snuff (Lagotto Romagnolo): The newest and most surprising addition. Snuff is a curly-coated puppy of an ancient Italian breed, known for his high intelligence and working drive. He is the first Lagotto Romagnolo to ever join the British Royal Family.
• Beth (Jack Russell Terrier): One of Queen Camilla’s two rescue dogs, adopted from Battersea Dogs Home. Beth is a prominent figure, often seen in official photographs and even featured on the cover of Country Life magazine.
• Bluebell (Jack Russell Terrier): The second of the Queen Consort's rescue Jack Russell Terriers, also adopted from Battersea Dogs Home. Beth and Bluebell famously accompanied the King and Queen Consort to their Coronation.

A Lifelong Devotion: Charles’s Past Pets

The King's love for dogs extends back to his childhood, where he was exposed to the royal Corgis. However, his personal preference has always leaned toward working and terrier breeds, demonstrating a deep appreciation for their loyalty and character.

• Jack Russell Terriers: Charles has owned several Jack Russell Terriers throughout his life, highlighting his long-standing favour for the breed.
• Labrador Retrievers: The King has also been associated with Labrador Retrievers, another working breed, suggesting a preference for dogs with a strong purpose and trainability.
• Corgis: Although his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, was the most famous Corgi owner in the world, King Charles also had Corgis in his life, though they were not his primary personal choice.

Snuff: The Lagotto Romagnolo—A Royal Truffle Hunter

The selection of a Lagotto Romagnolo is arguably the most unique choice for a royal pet since Queen Victoria’s time. This rare and fascinating breed, which translates to "lake dog from Romagna," brings a wealth of history and specialized skills to the palace. The name 'Snuff' is likely a playful nod to the breed's incredible sniffing abilities.

The Ancient History of a Water Dog

The Lagotto Romagnolo is an ancient breed, with its origins tracing back to at least Renaissance Italy, specifically the marshlands of Ravenna in the Romagna region. They were originally bred as waterfowl retrievers, expertly navigating the wet, challenging terrain to retrieve downed birds. As the marshlands were drained in the 19th century, their role evolved dramatically.

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The World's Only Specialized Truffle Hunter

The most distinctive feature of the Lagotto is its second career as a truffle hunter. They are the only breed in the world specialized in tracking down the highly prized and valuable underground tuber, using their exceptional sense of smell to locate truffles in various terrains. Their dense, curly, woolly coat is water-resistant and non-shedding, offering natural protection from the elements while they work.

Temperament and Trainability

The breed’s temperament is a perfect match for a busy royal lifestyle, provided they get enough mental and physical stimulation. Lagotti are known for their:

• High Intelligence: They are highly trainable and eager to please, thriving on tasks and mental challenges.
• Affectionate Nature: They are loyal, loving companions who form strong bonds with their families.
• Energy: As a working breed, they require significant daily exercise and engagement to prevent boredom.
• Adaptability: Despite their working heritage, they can adapt to various lifestyles, making them suitable for a life split between royal estates and palaces.

Why a Lagotto? Breaking the Royal Corgi and Terrier Tradition

The choice of a Lagotto Romagnolo for King Charles III is a significant cultural moment, signaling a new era for the royal household's pets. For decades, the British monarchy was defined by Queen Elizabeth II's Corgis, and more recently, the Jack Russell Terriers have taken center stage. King Charles's decision to welcome Snuff is a fascinating move that highlights several potential intentions.

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A Shift in Royal Dog Culture

For nearly a century, the Corgi was the unofficial mascot of the British Royal Family. The shift to a Lagotto Romagnolo, a relatively uncommon breed in the UK, suggests a personal choice over a traditional one. It allows the King to establish his own canine legacy, distinct from his mother's, while still choosing a breed with a noble, working history.

The Truffle Connection and Estate Life

The King is a renowned environmentalist and passionate gardener, deeply involved in the management of his estates, such as Highgrove. The Lagotto's heritage as a truffle hunter perfectly aligns with the King's interest in sustainable and specialized agriculture. While it is unlikely Snuff will be deployed to hunt for truffles on a daily basis, the connection to nature, the countryside, and a specialized working role makes the breed a symbolic fit for the monarch's personal interests.

The 'Kennel Club Effect' and Crufts

King Charles III is the patron of The Kennel Club, the official body for dog health and welfare in the UK. His choice of a Lagotto Romagnolo, a breed that has previously won accolades at prestigious events like Crufts, is expected to have a massive impact. Experts have already noted a significant increase in searches and interest in the breed, a phenomenon sometimes called the 'Kennel Club Effect' or 'Royal Effect,' which can lead to a surge in responsible breeding and public awareness for the breed.

The arrival of Snuff, the Lagotto Romagnolo, is more than just a new pet story; it is a fascinating glimpse into the personal life and preferences of King Charles III. From the Italian marshlands to the halls of Buckingham Palace, Snuff represents a new, exciting chapter in the history of royal pets, one that is rooted in a working heritage and a strong, individual choice. As the King and Queen Camilla continue to be "smitten" with their new canine companion, the world watches with delight, ready to see what adventures await the royal truffle hunter.