Bergamasco Shepherd Dog
Summary
The Bergamasco Shepherd Dog is an ancestral Italian breed, originating from the Bergamasque Alps near Bergamo, that worked for centuries as a flock guardian and driver at high altitudes. It is immediately recognizable by its coat, unique in the canine world, formed by three types of hair that naturally interweave into flat tufts or mats (different from the cords of the Puli or Komondor). This extraordinary coat functioned as insulation and protection in extreme alpine conditions.
Physical Characteristics
- Size
- Medium to large
- Height (male)
- 58–62 cm
- Height (female)
- 54–58 cm
- Weight (male)
- 32–38 kg
- Weight (female)
- 26–32 kg
- Life Expectancy
- 13–15 years
- Coat
- Unique — formed by three types of hair (woolly undercoat, intermediate hair and harsh outer hair) that interweave into flat tufts/mats
- Common Colors
- Grey (in all shades), black, fawn with or without black or grey patches; merle
Temperament & Personality
The Bergamasco is a balanced, patient and independent dog, with intelligence developed over centuries of autonomous work. It is extremely loyal and affectionate with the family, but reserved with strangers. It possesses a natural protective instinct but is rarely aggressive without reason. Its patience makes it especially good with children, and its intelligence allows it to assess complex situations with great ease.
Activity & Exercise
- Energy Level
- Moderate
- Recommended Daily Exercise
- 60–90 minutes
Grooming & Care
- Grooming Needs
- High
- Shedding
- Minimal
- Bathing Frequency
- Every 12 weeks
Health
- Common Health Issues
- Cataracts
- Gastric torsion
- Hip dysplasia
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
- Recommended Health Tests
- Eye examination
- Orthopedic evaluation
Compatibility
- With Children
- Excellent
- With Other Dogs
- Excellent
- With Cats
- Good
- For First-Time Owners
- Acceptable
