Cheap way to live in Italy for a year...?

I have two dogs and i'm graduating college this year. before my "life" starts, i want to travel a little bit. I want to live in the countryside of Italy for like a year- I could care less if its near any major attractions or tourism, is there a cheap place or any tips so I (and my dogs) could live? not as a vacationer, but more as a resident. I dont want to pay vacation rates, i'll be totally happy living on the country side (pref. near water the ocean) and working on a farm or whatever. I have some money saved but I need to work while i'm there as well. If anyone has any beautiful places and some good ideas please let me know.. THANKS!