Bergamasco Sheepdog

Bergamasco Sheepdogs are hard to miss because of their unique fur and the fact that they are not very common. These medium-sized dogs have a sturdy build and a square shape, with a coat that forms into locks over about three years. The thick, flat mats of their fur provide protection from the elements and threats. They are smart and friendly, making them great family pets, but they still have a strong instinct to herd.

Quick Info

Size
Large
Colours
Solid gray, patched with shades of gray through to black, black, Isabella (pale and or dappled fawn), or light fawn. White patches are possible.
Lifespan
13 to 15 years
Height
22 to 24 inches
Type
Herding
Hypoallergenic
no
Weight
57 to 84 pounds
Family
Herding

Personality

The Bergamasco is a type of working dog that instinctively wants to protect and herd. For them to fit well into a family setting, they require early socialization and continuous training. While they have a strong urge to make their owners happy, they may not be the best choice for someone who has never owned a dog before.

History

Hello, handsome! The Bergamasco dog originates from the mountainous region near Bergamo, Italy. These dogs are related to Asian sheepdogs that were brought over from the Middle East by the Phoenicians long before the Roman era. This breed probably helped shape other sturdy, thick-coated herding dogs found across Europe. Their unique, flat, greasy mats serve as protection against harsh weather, strong winds, and threats from predators. Since World War II, this breed has become less common, but it made its way to America about 30 years ago.

Ideal Owner

People who have experience with sheepdogs that enjoy protecting will find Bergamascos to be a great match. These dogs need plenty of training and exercise, but the effort is worth it for a beautiful, loving, and snuggly companion. Grooming isn't too demanding most of the time, but it can become time-consuming once or twice a year. Their long, curly hair can take a long time to dry, so be ready for that, along with the dog smell that can build up from rare baths.

Exercise Needs

These dogs require a minimum of one hour of physical activity each day, but it’s best if their owner aims for more. The Bergamasco loves to spend time outdoors and will gladly take advantage of any extra time available. To help tire them out, it's beneficial to include mental activities like training, puzzles, and games. Being mountain working dogs, they have a lot of energy to burn.

Space Requirements

If the scent of a dog isn’t appealing to you, then the Bergamasco may not be the right choice. These dogs often have a dog-like odor, and their unique dreadlocks can’t be cleaned as often as those of other breeds. Owners might consider creating “dog-friendly” areas in their homes to prevent the smell from spreading everywhere—unless you don’t mind it, of course! Their grooming needs are fairly minimal, but you should set aside a special area, like a mudroom, for washing and drying them once or twice a year. They thrive in spacious homes located in the countryside, especially those with large, fenced yards. These dogs are active and enjoy regular outdoor adventures without a leash.

Training

The Bergamasco is a smart and self-reliant sheepdog that thrives on positive training methods. They are good at spotting gaps in their handlers' training skills and may act quite differently depending on who is with them, much like teenagers do. They excel in sports and activities that tap into their natural herding abilities. It's important to teach them a solid recall command to prevent them from straying off to herd animals, other pets, or even little kids.

Grooming

The coat of a Bergamasco is truly eye-catching, resembling a mop in its appearance. As the dog grows, its grooming needs change, with the full coat taking about three years to develop its unique dreadlock style. Once the mats start to form around the age of three, maintenance becomes easier. Just brush the coat twice a month and bathe the dog once or twice a year, and your Bergamasco will stay happy and healthy. By the time the dog is five, the coat will reach the ground. At this stage, make sure to check for any dirt or leftover food that might get caught during walks. Doing this every day will help you avoid long washing and drying sessions for your Bergamasco, which can take quite a while.

Suitability for Family Life

The Bergamasco has a strong instinct to herd and round up, and it might see very young kids as “animals” and act accordingly without much guidance or training. They thrive in households with older kids or no children at all, but they are friendly enough to be good family pets if they have plenty of outdoor space to play and run around.

Did You know?

It takes about three years for a Bergamasco to grow its coat fully. This breed is quite uncommon, even within Italy. The origins of the Bergamasco go back more than 2,000 years to the Alps in Italy.

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Need to Know

Dogs suitable for experienced owners
Extra training required
Generally healthy breed
Enjoys active walks
Large dog
Some drool
Requires grooming every other day
Chatty and vocal dog