Description

The Bergamasco Sheep is an ancient breed which is at least 2000 years old. The ancestors of the Bergamasco spread out along the Alpine chain. Ancient dog lovers speak of a dog of the Alps and some describe a sheepdog in the Vallese region. The only common element in these vague sources is that the coat is described as long, thick and shabby. Strong, sound and brave, this dog is also very intelligence and has a good equilibrium. The Bergamasco is a medium size dog, well proportioned and harmonious having a rustic appearance. He is a solidly compact dog with a strong, powerful build that gives him great resistance without taking away any of his agility and speed of movement. His imposing aspect is increased by the thick coat which is one of his typical characteristics and makes him different from any other dog. The Bergamascos coat is characterized by three types of hair which is abundant and forms mats or flocks which is the distinguishing characteristic of this breed. The mats start from the spine and go down the flanks, growing every year to reach the ground. The thick curtain of hair that covers the eyes has a functional purpose as well. It serves as a visor so as not to be dazzled by the sun reflecting off the snow in the mountains. The color of the coat can be anything from gray or silver gray to anthracite (coal color). This color served as a camouflage when working in the mountains. The entire hereditary pattern is deeply ingrained in the breed. Even in our modern times, the Bergamasco remains the same.

Origin

The Bergamasco has ancient origins. In fact it comes from that stock of shepherds and cattle dogs that spread from the Orient to the Western world after migrations of the nomad populations and their herds. The exchange of the dogs took place when the sheep were sold. The progenitor of the Bergamasco Shepherd found its most suitable cradle in our country in the territory of the Alpine Arc, where sheep herding was much developed, and in the Po Basin of Piedmont and Lombardy, where they went for wintering. The Bergamasco was selected exclusively for its work aptitudes and for a long time its bloodlines were kept a secret by the shepherds.

Temperament

Strong, sound and brave, the Bergamasco is above all very intelligent and balanced. The intelligence of the dog has been refined for natural selection. Being alone with hundreds of sheep to look after and having to sort out different and unexpected problems, caused the Bergamasco's intelligence to develop steadily. A careful selection was applied to eliminate excessive aggressiveness. Bergamasco is a peaceful dog. Puppies play together, without impulse towards rivalry. They grow up in harmony with each other and develop strong personal links which are never broken. Bergamasco show great respect for each other, they avoid irritating or provoking one another. Attentive and reserved, it participates constantly in everything which goes on around it and, even when it appears to be asleep, it eyes will be following you, because it always wants to know where you are and what you are up to. Although not instinctively aggressive, the Bergamasco is an excellent watch dog because it doesn't likes strangers invading its world. Its relationship with children is something special. Their presence awakens its most profound and primitive instincts, first as a wolf and then as a sheepdog. Patient, tolerant, attentive and protective, it seeks their company encouraging their games establishing true friendship with them. Anyone who owns a Bergamasco is also lucky enough to have an excellent Nanny on hand, part from feeling protected, loved and safe at all times. The Bergamasco is both a watch dog and guard and will alert when people come to the home, however, the Bergamasco is not aggressive as long as there is no serious threat to the family. The Bergamasco is great with all children and have been used as Therapy dogs for handicapped children. Bergamascos are usually okay with other dogs as long as they don't challenge them or appear as a threat. It is not recommended to place a Bergamasco with a very okay with cats, but it is best if they were brought up together while the dog is still a puppy. The Bergamasco sees each individual that comes to the house as a separate person. As to whether to Bergamasco is friendly with strangers; all depends on the feel of that person and what the dog senses. The Bergamasco is not a dog for everyone, but with the right owner , are a true pleasure to own.

Height

Height: Males 23 ½ inches (60 cm) (with a tolerance of 1 inch (2cm) or

Weight

Weight: Males 70-84 pounds (32-38 kg.) Females 57-71 pounds (26-32 kg.)

Known Health Problems

Usually a very healthy breed.

Conditions for Living

The Bergamasco Sheepdog is best suited for seasonal to cold Climates. Given their dense coats which provides protection from the elements of the climate, it is not uncommon to find the Bergamasco spending their nights sleeping outdoors. The Bergamasco sheepdog would not do well in apartment living, rather a house with a yard to provide for daily exercise.

Exercise Requirments

The Bergamasco enjoys the outdoors and will exercise on their own herding the sheep or a romp with the kids is ample exercise that is necessary for a Happy Bergamasco.

Life Expectancy

About 13-15 years Litter Size

Grooming

The Bergamasco coat once fully flocked requires very little care, except for the occasional brushing and bathing. Forever changing, from the adorable, soft, fluffy, puppy coat to the beginning flocking stage which may start as early as 8-9 months to 1 yr. When the flocking starts, it lasts till the dog is approximately two years old. From 2-3 yrs the coat is settling into a flocking pattern and will continue to grow throughout the dogs life. The coat is made up of three types of hair:01: the Undercoat, fine dense and oily (not greasy) to the touch which forms a waterproof layer. 02: The Goat Hair, long strands of harsh hair similar to the coat of a goat. 03: The Woolly top coat, which is finer and softer to the touch. The combination of the woolly hair mixed with the goat hair weave together to create the flock. These flocks continue to grow throughout the dogs life creating multi layers of flocks that magically appear before your eyes, eventually reaching the ground at about the age of 5 years. The Bergamasco is a very simple genuine dog which is best reflected in his coat. The Bergamasco is a very simple, genuine dog which is reflected in his coat, it is best to let the coat develop as naturally and spontaneously as possible. The Bergamasco does not shed like a other breeds, however, at times, like humans, you will find hair especially during the puppy stage. Once the coat changes from puppy to adult and the flocks are set. Hair lost is at a minimal. The Bergamasco coat is considered hair not fur and is considered non-allergic, however, there are extreme cases that a person could still be allergic to the hair, for more details

Group

Sheepdogs and Cattledogs-except Swiss Cattledogs; Section 1(Sheepdogs) without a working trail. United Kennel Club (United States) Herding Group USA rare breed shows: Herding Group