Bergamasco Sheepdog: Unique and Endearing
The Bergamasco Sheepdog is a unique and ancient breed. The Bergamasco has a thick, corded coat that sets it apart from other breeds. Its long-standing history and loyal nature make it an ideal companion for anyone looking for an intelligent and devoted pet.
The Bergamasco Sheepdog’s origins date back to the Middle Ages in Persia (Iran). They were used as herding dogs in the Italian Alps. Their thick coats are designed to protect them against harsh climatic conditions, while their intelligent minds allow them to excel at herding livestock.
History
The Bergamasco sheepdog is an ancient breed of livestock guardian dogs believed to have been used in the Alps since at least the 1600s. It’s a large, muscular dog with a long, corded coat hanging in clumps and reaching the ground. The coat protects from harsh weather conditions and predators while guarding its flock.
Its head is broad and slightly rounded, with almond-shaped eyes and ears that lay flat against its head. The Bergamasco is known for being loyal and courageous, making it an ideal companion for shepherds who needed help protecting their flocks from wolves and other predators.
Bergamascos are happiest when they have work — herding sheep or cattle, helping on a farm, or even playing fetch in the backyard. These gentle giants love spending time with their people — whether taking leisurely walks around the neighborhood or snuggling up for a nap on the couch! They’re also great family pets who get along well with children and other animals.
Physical Characteristics
The Bergamasco Sheepdog is a sturdy, medium-sized breed that usually stands between 24 and 28 inches tall. Its dense, oily coat is its most distinctive feature and comes in black or gray colors—the coat’s fur forms thick mats resembling dreadlocks on the dog’s back and flanks.
This breed is strong, agile, and energetic, well-suited for herding tasks. The Bergamasco Sheepdog has a calm, confident demeanor but can be stubborn if not properly trained. They are intelligent dogs that have been known to learn complex commands quickly.
They are also loyal and devoted to their owners, making them excellent family pets who thrive on human companionship. Despite their strong herding instincts, they rarely bark when working or playing, making them ideal for urban areas.
Temperament And Behavior
The Bergamasco sheepdog is a large breed, averaging 21-23 inches and weighing around 70-84 pounds. Physically, the breed is distinguished by its thick and wooly coat, forming three large flocks on the body – two on the sides and one in the middle of its back.
The Bergamasco sheepdog is calm regarding temperament and behavior, making it an excellent companion for families. It is also highly intelligent and eager to please, so it can be easily trained to follow basic commands.
Although this breed does not bark often, it will alert its owners when something strange or unusual happens in their environment. It will protect its family if necessary as an obedient dog but prefers to remain within its territory.
The Bergamasco Sheepdog needs plenty of daily exercises and mental stimulation to stay contented and happy – failure to provide these may lead to destructive behaviors such as chewing furniture or digging up your garden.
Bergamasco Sheepdog Price
A Bergamasco puppy can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $4,000. However, some breeders may charge more for puppies from champion bloodlines or with certain desirable traits.
The cost of a Bergamasco Sheepdog can vary depending on various factors such as the breeder’s location, reputation, and experience, the puppy’s pedigree, and the demand for the breed in the market.
The Bergamasco Sheepdog Club of America is a good place to start for a Bergamasco Sheepdog rescue.
Health And Care
The Bergamasco Sheepdog is a very hardy and resilient breed, but they still require regular care to maintain their health. As a large dog, they need daily exercise, including long walks and runs.
They should also get regular grooming to keep their thick coat clean and healthy. Brushing two to three times a week is recommended, as well as trimming the hair between their paws and around their eyes to prevent irritation or infection. Bathing is not required more than 1-3 times a year.
These dogs are prone to specific health issues, such as hip dysplasia, eye problems, skin allergies, and ear infections. Owners must be aware of these common ailments to watch for them in their pets. Regular vet visits are also necessary for vaccinations and checkups.
Popularity And Recognition
The Bergamasco Sheepdog is a majestic breed gaining traction in recent years. Their long, wavy coat and loyal and intelligent nature have made them popular among dog lovers worldwide. They are highly trainable and can make an excellent addition to any family.
Several organizations, including the American Kennel Club and the Fédération Cynologique Internationale, recognize the Bergamasco Sheepdog. The Bergamasco Sheepdog Club of America is the AKC parent club for this breed. Not only do these organizations recognize the breed, but they also provide resources to help potential owners learn more about this amazing animal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Bergamasco Sheepdog Good With Children?
The Bergamasco Sheepdog is known for its gentle and even temperament. This makes it an ideal companion for families with children, as it is loyal, friendly, and patient.
Are Bergamascos rare?
The Bergamasco Sheepdog is considered a rare breed. It is estimated that there are fewer than 5,000 Bergamascos worldwide, and all major kennel clubs do not yet recognize the breed.
Are Bergamasco dogs aggressive?
Bergamascos are generally known for their calm, gentle, and independent nature, and they can make loyal and affectionate companions. However, they may be reserved or cautious with strangers, and their protective instincts may cause them to bark or growl at perceived threats.
What Is The Average Life Span Of A Bergamasco Sheepdog?
The average life span of a Bergamasco sheepdog is between 12 and 14 years.
They are relatively healthy and can often live longer than the average dog of their size.
Is The Bergamasco Sheepdog Easy To Train?
Generally speaking, they are quite intelligent and eager to learn, which makes them relatively easy to train. With patience and consistency, they can grasp basic commands quickly and even more complex tasks with some repetition.
Conclusion
The Bergamasco Sheepdog is a robust and loyal dog breed, making them an ideal companion for those looking for a devoted pet. They are generally good with children and have a long lifespan, provided they are cared for properly. They need plenty of exercise to stay healthy, so be prepared to take them on daily walks.
