Bergamasco Shepherd Dog Breed Information, Puppies & Breeders

Are you currently considering getting a Bergamasco Shepherd as your new furry companion? This unique breed is known for its distinctive coat and loyal temperament, making it a great choice for those looking for a devoted and protective pet. However, before bringing a Bergamasco Shepherd into your home, it’s important to understand their specific needs and characteristics to ensure you can provide them with the best possible care. In this article, we will explore the key traits of the Bergamasco Shepherd breed to help you make an informed decision about whether this dog is the right fit for you and your lifestyle.

Breed Category: Herding
Country of Origin: Italy
Average Size:60-80 cm
Average Weight:32-38 kg
Average Life Span: 13-15 years
Grooming Requirements: High – requires regular brushing and mat removal
Exercise Requirements:High – needs daily exercise and mental stimulation

History and Origin

The Bergamasco Shepherd is a breed of dog that originated in the Italian Alps, specifically in the region of Bergamo. This breed is known for its unique coat, which is made up of three different types of hair that combine to form mats or “flocks.” The Bergamasco Shepherd has been used for centuries as a herding dog, and its intelligence and loyalty make it a popular choice for families as well.

The exact origins of the Bergamasco Shepherd are not known, but it is believed that the breed has been around for at least 2,000 years. The breed was developed by the shepherds of the Italian Alps, who needed a dog that could help them herd their flocks of sheep and protect them from predators. The Bergamasco Shepherd was bred to be a hardy and versatile dog that could handle the harsh mountain terrain and the extreme weather conditions of the region.

The Bergamasco Shepherd’s unique coat is one of its most distinctive features. The coat is made up of three different types of hair: a fine, woolly undercoat, a coarser middle coat, and a long, matted outer coat. The mats or “flocks” that form in the outer coat help to protect the dog from the cold and wet weather of the Alps, as well as from predators such as wolves and bears. The coat also helps to give the Bergamasco Shepherd its distinctive appearance, which has been compared to that of a dreadlocked hippie.

Despite its long history and popularity in Italy, the Bergamasco Shepherd was not recognized as a breed by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) until 1988. Since then, the breed has gained a following in other parts of the world, including the United States and the United Kingdom. However, the Bergamasco Shepherd is still a relatively rare breed, with only a few hundred dogs registered with the Kennel Club in the UK.

The Bergamasco Shepherd’s intelligence and loyalty make it a popular choice for families, but it is important to note that this breed is not for everyone. The Bergamasco Shepherd is a working dog at heart, and it requires plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to be happy and healthy. This breed is also known for its independent streak, which can make training a challenge for inexperienced owners. However, with patience and consistency,

Size and Breed Category

The Bergamasco Shepherd is a large breed of dog that originates from the Italian Alps. They are a muscular and sturdy breed, with a thick coat of hair that forms into dreadlocks as they mature. The Bergamasco Shepherd is a working breed, traditionally used for herding and guarding livestock. They are highly intelligent and have a strong work ethic, making them an excellent choice for those who are looking for a loyal and hardworking companion.

In terms of size, the Bergamasco Shepherd is a medium to large breed, with males typically weighing between 32-38 kg and standing at 60-70 cm tall at the shoulder. Females are slightly smaller, weighing between 26-32 kg and standing at 56-64 cm tall at the shoulder. Despite their size, the Bergamasco Shepherd is known for their agility and athleticism, making them well-suited for a variety of activities such as agility training, obedience competitions, and hiking. They are a loyal and protective breed, making them an excellent choice for families who are looking for a dog that can both protect and entertain.

Fur Length and Colour

The fur of the Bergamasco Shepherd is one of its most distinctive features. It is a thick, matted coat that is made up of three different types of hair. The undercoat is fine and woolly, while the middle coat is made up of longer, softer hair. The outer coat is made up of harsher, coarser hair that is designed to protect the dog from the elements. The fur is typically grey or black, but can also be shades of fawn or brown. The colour of the fur can vary depending on the individual dog, and some may have white markings on their chest or feet. The fur is long and shaggy, and can grow up to 8 inches in length. It is important to regularly groom the fur to prevent matting and tangling.

The Bergamasco Shepherd’s fur is not only visually striking, but also serves a practical purpose. The thick, matted coat provides insulation against both cold and heat, making it well-suited to a variety of climates. The fur also helps to protect the dog from bites and scratches during herding, as well as from the rough terrain of the mountainous regions where the breed originated. The fur is not shed like that of other breeds, but rather forms into felt-like mats that protect the dog’s skin. These mats can be separated by hand or with a special tool called a “stripping comb.” Despite the thick fur, the Bergamasco Shepherd is not hypoallergenic and may cause allergies in some people.

Termperament and Trainability

Bergamasco Shepherds are known for their calm and steady temperament. They are not easily provoked and are generally good-natured. They are also very loyal to their owners and are protective of their family. However, they can be reserved with strangers and may require proper socialization to prevent shyness or aggression. Bergamasco Shepherds are intelligent and independent, which can make them challenging to train. They have a strong will and may require a firm and consistent approach to training. However, they are also sensitive and respond well to positive reinforcement. With patience and dedication, Bergamasco Shepherds can excel in obedience and agility training.

Bergamasco Shepherds are a working breed and have a high level of energy. They require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. They enjoy activities such as hiking, running, and playing fetch. Bergamasco Shepherds are also known for their adaptability and can thrive in a variety of living situations. They are suitable for families with children and can coexist with other pets if properly socialized. However, they may not be the best choice for first-time dog owners due to their strong-willed nature and training requirements. Overall, Bergamasco Shepherds are a loyal and hardworking breed that requires proper training and exercise to reach their full potential.

Known Health Conditions

Bergamasco Shepherds are prone to certain health conditions that owners should be aware of. One of the most common issues is hip dysplasia, which is a genetic condition that affects the hip joint. This can cause pain, lameness, and arthritis in the affected joint. Owners should ensure that their Bergamasco Shepherd is screened for hip dysplasia before breeding, as it can be passed on to offspring. Additionally, the breed is prone to eye problems such as cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy, which can lead to blindness. Regular eye exams by a veterinarian can help detect and manage these conditions.

Another health concern for Bergamasco Shepherds is bloat, also known as gastric torsion. This occurs when the stomach fills with gas and twists, cutting off blood flow to the stomach and other organs. Bloat is a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate veterinary attention. Owners can help prevent bloat by feeding their Bergamasco Shepherd smaller, more frequent meals, avoiding exercise immediately after meals, and discouraging rapid eating. The breed is also prone to allergies, which can cause skin irritation and itching. Identifying and avoiding allergens can help manage this condition.

Openness to Strangers

Bergamasco Shepherds have a reputation for being friendly and welcoming to strangers. They are known to be sociable dogs that enjoy meeting new people and making new friends. Their open and approachable nature makes them a popular choice for families and individuals looking for a loyal and affectionate companion.

One of the reasons why Bergamasco Shepherds are so open to strangers is their natural curiosity. They are intelligent dogs that are always eager to learn and explore their surroundings. This curiosity extends to people, and they are often keen to meet new faces and discover new things. Additionally, their gentle and patient temperament means that they are unlikely to be aggressive or fearful towards strangers, making them a great choice for households with children or other pets.

Playfulness Level

The Bergamasco Shepherd is a highly playful breed of dog that loves to engage in various activities with their owners. They are known for their high energy levels and their love for outdoor activities such as running, hiking, and playing fetch. These dogs are also highly intelligent and require mental stimulation to keep them engaged and happy. Owners of Bergamasco Shepherds often find that their dogs enjoy playing games that involve problem-solving and learning new tricks. Overall, the Playfulness Level of the Bergamasco Shepherd is high, and they make excellent companions for active families who enjoy spending time outdoors.

In addition to their love for physical activities, the Bergamasco Shepherd is also known for their playful and affectionate nature. They are highly social dogs that enjoy spending time with their owners and other dogs. These dogs are also known for their loyalty and protective instincts, making them excellent guard dogs. However, their playful nature can sometimes lead to them being overly exuberant, which can be a challenge for some owners. It is important for owners of Bergamasco Shepherds to provide them with plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. Overall, the Playfulness Level of the Bergamasco Shepherd is a defining characteristic of this breed, and they make wonderful companions for those who are willing to provide them with the attention and care they need.

Suitability as a Pet for Children

Bergamasco Shepherds have a calm and gentle temperament, making them a great choice for families with children. They are loyal and protective of their family, making them excellent watchdogs. Their thick, matted coat requires regular grooming, which can be a fun activity for children to participate in. Bergamasco Shepherds are also highly intelligent and trainable, making them a great choice for families who want a dog that can learn new tricks and commands easily. Overall, the Bergamasco Shepherd is a wonderful pet for families with children who are looking for a loyal, protective, and intelligent companion.

Exercise Needs

Bergamasco Shepherds require a significant amount of exercise to maintain their physical and mental health. As a medium to large breed, they need at least 60 minutes of daily exercise, which can be split into two or three sessions. This breed is known for its high energy levels and enjoys activities such as running, hiking, and playing fetch. It is important to note that Bergamasco Shepherds have a strong herding instinct, so they may enjoy activities that involve chasing and herding. Additionally, they are intelligent dogs that require mental stimulation, so incorporating training and puzzle toys into their exercise routine can be beneficial.

In addition to physical exercise, Bergamasco Shepherds also benefit from socialization and mental stimulation. This breed is known for its loyalty and affection towards its family, but can be reserved or suspicious of strangers. Therefore, it is important to expose them to different people, animals, and environments from a young age to prevent fear or aggression. Mental stimulation can be provided through training, obedience classes, and interactive toys. Bergamasco Shepherds are highly trainable and enjoy learning new skills, so incorporating training into their exercise routine can be a fun and rewarding experience for both the dog and owner.

Suitability for a Multi-Pet Family

Bergamasco Shepherds have a reputation for being friendly towards other pets in the household. They are known to be particularly good with cats and can form strong bonds with them. However, as with any breed, early socialization and training are important to ensure that they get along well with other animals. It is also important to supervise interactions between pets to prevent any potential conflicts.

Housing Requirements

Bergamasco Shepherds require a spacious and secure living environment that allows them to move around freely. They are an active breed that needs plenty of exercise, so a large yard or access to open spaces is essential. A fenced-in area is also necessary to prevent them from wandering off or chasing after other animals. Additionally, they need a comfortable and warm shelter to protect them from harsh weather conditions. A well-insulated dog house with a raised floor and a covered entrance is ideal for Bergamasco Shepherds.

In terms of grooming, Bergamasco Shepherds have a unique coat that requires special attention. Their hair is long, thick, and matted, which means they need regular brushing and trimming to prevent matting and tangling. They also need to be bathed occasionally to keep their coat clean and healthy. As a result, their living environment should have a designated grooming area with all the necessary tools and supplies. This includes a grooming table, brushes, combs, scissors, and shampoo. Regular grooming not only keeps their coat in good condition but also strengthens the bond between the dog and their owner.

Summary

The Bergamasco Shepherd has a reputation for being a loyal and protective companion. They are known for their intelligence and trainability, making them a good choice for experienced dog owners who are willing to put in the time and effort to properly socialize and train their pet. However, their high energy levels and need for regular exercise mean that they may not be suitable for all households, particularly those with limited outdoor space or a sedentary lifestyle. Overall, the Bergamasco Shepherd can make a great pet for the right owner, but careful consideration should be given to their specific needs and temperament before bringing one into the home.

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