The Bergamasco dog is an ancient breed of shepherds. It is thought that the breed is thousands of years old. Originating in what is now called Iran, the dog was originally bred to work with their masters, tending to flocks of sheep. These nomadic people eventually settled in the Italian Alps where the dogs became known as the Bergamasco. What is most interesting about this breed’s history is that, unlike other herding dogs that were taught to obey its master’s every command; the Bergamasco was allowed to be independent and developed a true problem-solving ability. After World War II, the breed was in danger of extinction. Through the efforts of Dr. Maria Andreoli, the breed was saved from this doomed fate. Although it is not a popular breed in America, it does have a following and numbers are increasing due to successful breeding programs.
The Bergamasco is an ancient sheepdog of the Alpine region. It is a medium-sized dog that has a strong and powerful build. This breed’s most distinctive features is its long, shaggy coat that forms mats or flocks. Their eyes and ears are completely covered by their abundant coat so it is important to check for ear and eye infections regularly. Their coat itself is low maintenance in terms of grooming and they do not shed often. However, their long coats tend to pick up dirt so they may have to be cleaned after.
Personality
Bergamascos are peaceful, highly intelligent and brave dogs that form strong social bonds with people. They are also independent and stubborn and need to be handled with gentle authority. They are very affectionate towards children, as well as patient, gentle playmates. They require daily exercise and will do better in environments where they can roam the outdoors, but can make good apartment dogs if they are taken for long walks or get the chance to romp. Like most sheepdogs, they are protective and suspicious of strangers. They are friendly towards other dogs unless they feel threatened.
Breed Characteristics
| Life Span: | 13-15 years |
| Nicknames: | No nicknames known |
Bergamasco Build Information
The Bergamasco is an ancient sheepdog of the Alpine region. It is a medium-sized dog that has a strong and powerful build. This breed’s most distinctive features is its long, shaggy coat that forms mats or flocks. Their eyes and ears are completely covered by their abundant coat so it is important to check for ear and eye infections regularly. Their coat itself is low maintenance in terms of grooming and they do not shed often. However, their long coats tend to pick up dirt so they may have to be cleaned after.
| Size: | Medium |
Behaviour and Personality
Bergamascos are peaceful, highly intelligent and brave dogs that form strong social bonds with people. They are also independent and stubborn and need to be handled with gentle authority. They are very affectionate towards children, as well as patient, gentle playmates. They require daily exercise and will do better in environments where they can roam the outdoors, but can make good apartment dogs if they are taken for long walks or get the chance to romp. Like most sheepdogs, they are protective and suspicious of strangers. They are friendly towards other dogs unless they feel threatened.
| Activity Level: | Moderately active |
| Affection Level: | Affectionate |
| Kid Friendliness: | Very Friendly |
Appearance
You wouldn’t know it to look at the dog, but it does not require much grooming. Brushing is all but impossible, and few owners choose to clip their dogs. The breed has three distinct types of hair. Each of these hairs intertwine as the dog matures, forming woven plates. These plates can eventually grow so long that they touch the ground. Once the unusual mats develop, it is not recommended to shave the dog. Some owners do choose to clip the mats to four inches in length once each year. This is strictly a personal preference and is not required. The breed does not need to be bathed more than once a year.
| Shedding: | None |
| Grooming: | Low Maintenance |
Bergamasco Common Health Conditions
There are few health problems that plague the breed. Like any larger dog, this one may be prone to hip and elbow dysplasia. It may also be prone to arthritis as it grows. The ears are covered by thick mats and moisture tends to accumulate. This may make the breed more prone to ear infections than dogs with pricked ears. Check your dog’s ears weekly to spot redness and smell odor before infection sets in.
Bergamasco Pet Insurance
When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.
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Breed Talents and Facts
Matting must be encouraged as the hair grows. This process begins when the puppy reaches maturity. The heavy mats occur in such a way that they do not pull at the skin. The dog is a tenacious one, but it is excellent with people. The intelligent breed is happiest when it is given a job to do. The Bergamasco is not known by any other names.
| Training: | Moderately easy |
