Bergamasco

History of Bergamasco

The Bergamasco is an ancient herding breed native to the Italian Alps, specifically the region around Bergamo. Originally bred to herd and protect livestock in mountainous areas, the Bergamasco's unique coat structure not only provides a distinctive appearance but also offered protection from harsh weather and predators. Today, the Bergamasco is a rare breed prized for its loyalty and working spirit.

Character and Temperament

The Bergamasco is a gentle, intelligent, and independent dog. They are loyal and form strong bonds with their family, but generally remain calm and reserved with strangers. This breed is friendly and sociable, provided it is properly socialized. Their natural tendency to solve problems independently makes them excellent working and family dogs.

Physical Characteristics

The Bergamasco is a medium-sized, robust dog with a unique coat consisting of three layers: an oily undercoat, a goat-hair-like middle coat, and a felted outer coat, which together form its characteristic "cords." An adult Bergamasco stands 54-62 cm at the withers and weighs an average of 26-38 kg.

Sizes for collar/harness:

Neck circumference: 50-60 cm
Chest circumference: 75-90 cm

Care

The Bergamasco's coat requires specific care, especially during the first few years when it begins to felt. Properly parting the coat into cords once is essential; after that, little maintenance is required. Regular checks of the ears, teeth, and nails remain important. This breed doesn't shed like other dogs and is often well-tolerated by people with allergies.

Movement and Activity

The Bergamasco is an active and intelligent breed that needs regular exercise but doesn't have excessive energy. Long walks and mental stimulation, such as puzzles or obedience training, keep them happy. They are working dogs by nature and enjoy having tasks.

Health

The Bergamasco is a robust and healthy breed with few known hereditary conditions. As with many medium to large breeds, they can be prone to hip dysplasia. Regular veterinary checkups and a balanced diet help ensure their health. The average life expectancy of a Bergamasco is 12-15 years.

Power supply

A balanced diet rich in protein and nutrients is essential for the Bergamasco. They need an average of 300-500 grams of high-quality dry dog food per day, depending on their size, age, and activity level. Ensure they always have access to fresh water.

Training and Socialization

The Bergamasco is intelligent and eager to learn, but has an independent nature, which can sometimes make training challenging. Positive reinforcement and patience are important. Early socialization helps ensure they interact well with other dogs, people, and new situations.

Owner Suitability

The Bergamasco is a great choice for families and individuals who want a loyal, independent dog. They thrive in environments where they are part of daily family life. This breed is less suitable for people who don't have the time to give them sufficient attention and stimulation.

Share your Bergamasco!

Do you own a Bergamasco? We'd love to hear your stories and experiences! Send a photo of your Bergamasco to customerservice@fidello.nl and receive a 10% discount on your next purchase. Want to contribute to a video for FidelloTV and earn €20 in store credit? Schedule an appointment via customerservice@fidello.nl and help us share more about this unique breed on YouTube!