The Bergamasco is a compact herding dog. Beneath their flocks of hair, the Bergamasco is a muscular and heavy-boned breed with calm, balanced movements.
Group: Herding
Lifespan: 13–15 yr
Height: 21–24 in
Weight: 57–84 lb
Care
Despite their well-coiffed appearance, the Bergamasco has a maintenance-free coat once the flocks are established. Puppies do not have goat or wool hair on their outer coats; it comes in when the dogs are around one year old. When it appears, the coat must be “ripped” into flocks, which can take a few hours but it needs no further maintenance after that.
Bergamascos are a non-shedding breed and their hair requires no brushing; these dogs rarely even need baths! The thick coats help Bergamascos regulate their temperatures and should never be shaved.
Trim their nails to prevent cracking, splitting, and painful overgrowths, and clean their ears. Regular dental care that includes at-home teeth brushing and professional cleanings is also an essential part of their grooming routines.
Feed Bergamascos a high-quality dog food that is appropriate for their life stage (puppy, adult, senior) and consider a diet formulated for active breeds. Portion out their food with a standard measuring cup and limit treats to no more than 10% of their daily calories to avoid overfeeding and prevent weight gain.
Always visit a professional veterinarian if you believe your dog may have health issues.
