The Bergamasco Shepherd is a medium-sized dog with a rustic appearance and long, abundant fur that forms very characteristic locks. It has an exceptional character and is a great dog, both for herding and for company. If you're thinking of adopting a pet, you can't miss this file on the breed of the Bergamasco shepherd dog, a pet that, contrary to what many may think, does not need any special care in its abundant fur since the locks that they are formed naturally and it is only necessary to bathe them when they really need them. In addition, their peaceful and docile temperament makes them get along great with children and other pets.
Origin of the Bergamasco shepherd
The origin of this breed is unknown, since it is very old. However, it is known that the Bergamasco shepherd inhabited the entire region of the Italian Alps and was very numerous in the Bergamasco valleys of Lombardy, from which it takes its name.
Although it is not a very popular breed throughout the world, it has been spread throughout Europe and there are some specimens in countries of America.
Physical characteristics of the Bergamasco shepherd
The ideal height at the withers for males is 60 centimeters, while for females it is 56 centimeters. The weight of the males is between 32 and 38 kilograms. The weight of the females is between 26 and 32 kilograms. The body of this dog has a square profile, since the length from the shoulder to the buttock is equal to the height at the withers. The chest is broad and deep, while the belly is somewhat retracted.
The head of the bergamasco is large in appearance, and the fur that covers it makes it look even larger, but always in proportion to the body. The eyes, large and dark brown, have a sweet, calm and attentive expression, although it is not easy to see them due to the abundant fur on the face. The ears are semi-fallen and with a rounded tip. This dog's tail is thick and strong at the base, but tapers towards the tip.
The fur is abundant, long and of different textures on different parts of the body. In the anterior part of the trunk it is rough, similar to goat hair. On the head, the hair is less coarse and falls covering the eyes. On the rest of the body, the hair forms tufts. The coat can be gray with gray spots of different shades, and even black spots. It can also be full black, as long as it is opaque. White spots are accepted when they do not exceed one fifth of the total surface.
Character of the Bergamasco shepherd
These dogs are intelligent, caring and patient. They have a stable temperament and great concentration, making them excellent dogs for multiple functions and especially for driving and herding.
Bergamasco Shepherds are peaceful dogs that do not usually show aggression, so they are not very good as attack dogs. However, they are reserved with strangers, so they can be good watchdogs. They tend to get along with their humans and children in general. They also tend to get along with other dogs and have a certain facility to socialize with other pets. Of course, to have a balanced Bergamasco, it is necessary to socialize it from puppyhood.
These dogs do not usually develop behavior problems as long as they have enough space to exercise and receive adequate attention. They can be excellent pets for families with children, but it is necessary to prevent the dog from being mistreated by small children. As with any breed, it is not recommended that a small child and dog be left alone without adult supervision.
Care of the Bergamasco shepherd
Unlike other dog breeds, the Bergamasco requires virtually no grooming. The strands form naturally, although occasionally they have to be separated manually. Beyond that, you only have to bathe the dogs when they get dirty. Especially dogs that live outside should be bathed very infrequently, only two or three times a year, to prevent the coat from losing its natural resistance. These dogs take a long time to dry after bathing.
Bergamasco shepherds need a lot of exercise and they are not suitable dogs to live in an apartment. Ideally, they live on farms where they help with herd management. When they live in a house, they need at least one long walk every day, plus some playtime. Dog sports can help channel these dogs' energies, especially herding.
Education of the Bergamasco shepherd
Because of their great intelligence, Bergamasco sheepdogs respond well to dog training They can be trained with different training techniques, but they must be Keep in mind that optimal results are obtained when these dogs are trained to drive herds. Although they can be trained using traditional methods, positive training tends to give better results when done correctly.
He alth of the Bergamasco shepherd
The Bergamasco Sheepdog tends to be he althy and there are no canine diseases typical of the breed. Of course, like any other dog, Bergamasco can develop any existing canine disease, so they must be given the he alth care they require.
