Bergamasco

Europeans have traditionally relied on medium-sized dogs with thick, long fur coats to herd and protect their flocks of sheep. This family of dogs has included the French Briard, the Hungarian Komondor, the Caucasian Shepherd Dog, the Spanish Gos d’Atura, the Old English Sheepdog, and the Italian Bergamasco.

The Italian Bergamasco, or Bergamasco Shepherd is an intelligent breed of dog that is most distinguished by its coat. This coat is unique among modern breeds for its mixture of three types of hair, which forms thick mats or flocks. As a dog bred to roam amongst its flock as protector and steward, the Bergamasco Shepherd can be independent and sometimes stubborn. However, they are also playful and extremely patient; thus, making them good pets for children.

The Bergamasco is not aggressive, but alert and will watch strangers keenly making him a very effective guard dog. Its thick coat may make it seem like this breed requires high maintenance, but that could not be further from the truth. The Bergamasco actually surprisingly doesn’t need much exercise to stay in shape.

Despite its shaggy appearance, the coat sheds only lightly, and apart from some specific requirements while it is growing, it does not need regular grooming. This is a remarkably healthy breed, with very few health concerns, although the low numbers of these dogs found outside their native setting means it is difficult to be sure of any underlying genetic susceptibilities. The average life expectancy for the Bergamasco is 13 to 15 years.

The Bergamasco is a large, corded or matted sheepdog that comes in all shades of gray. They were originally bred as herding dogs, but these days they are mostly kept as family companions or show dogs. He has been bred to be independent and act more as a partner than a subordinate. He is intelligent enough to problem-solve, which may or may not be a positive characteristic, depending on what he decides to do. His work ethic is excellent.

The Bergamasco is usually gentle with his family and protecting them is his primary job if there isn’t a flock present. He’s always alert and ready to bark an alarm or step in and protect if he feels it’s necessary. Early socialization and training are foundations of his upbringing that need to be established from puppyhood in order to prevent him from being too suspicious or fearful of anything new.

The Bergamasco is not the right dog for you if you want one that will always obey without question. He is independent and self-sufficient, but responds to kind, firm, consistent training. Once introduced, he accepts strangers well. If raised together from puppyhood, he gets along great with other pets.

This breed enjoys daily exercise, whether it’s a moderate to long walk or some active play time. He excels at dog sports such as agility, obedience, and rally and loves hiking in the mountains.

Bergamascos are often thought of as outdoor dogs, but they are actually quite devoted to their families and should have access to a secure yard. However, when the family is home, the Bergamasco should be with them.