Bergamasco Shepherd - description of the breed

Brief historical background

Bergamascos are classified as so-called shaggy shepherd dogs, whose ancestors are considered to be Tibetan shepherd dogs. Distant ancestors most likely came to Europe through China and Central Asia along with wandering Phoenician traders or nomads more than two thousand years ago. As a result of crossing with local herding dog breeds, shaggy shepherd dogs appeared in the form in which we know them today.

The greatest concentration of these dogs was observed in the Italian province of Bergamo, which was one of the main centers of cattle breeding in Italy and gave the name to the breed. Over the course of many centuries, individuals with the best working qualities have been painstakingly selected under conditions of harsh natural selection. Purposeful breeding of these shepherd dogs began only towards the end of the 19th century.

In Italy, Bergamascos still herd sheep to this day.

Another version explaining the name of the breed is associated with the Italian word “bergamino”, which literally means “assistant of the herd owner”.

The world canine community recognized the breed in 1959, at the same time the first breed club was founded, and a preliminary breed standard was described and approved. In the FCI registry, the Bergamasco Shepherd Dog is listed in group 1 - herding and cattle dogs (section 1 - shepherd dogs) under number 194. The latest current edition of the standard is dated June 1, 1992.

Bergamasco came to the territory of our country in the 60s of the last century.

History of the origin of the breed

The Bergamasco Shepherd is a herding dog whose ancestors appeared in the Alps several thousand years ago. It is believed that their ancestors were Tibetan mastiffs, who came there with traders. These hardy large dogs naturally interbred with local breeds.

The original habitat of such dogs is considered to be the central region of Italy - Tuscany. But in the north of the country, or rather in the province of Bergamo, cattle breeding was more developed. Local shepherds spent most of the year on pastures located in deserted green valleys, and needed four-legged helpers to guard, herd and drive large flocks of sheep. Thus, most of the dogs were moved to this area, which is why they received the name Bergamasco.

Despite its thousand-year history, international dog breeding associations, including the FCI, officially recognized the breed and published a standard only in 1992.

Description of Bergamasco

The standard positions Bergamasco Shepherd Dogs as herding dogs, whose main purpose is to drive and protect herds . For centuries, animals that have been close to humans have become accustomed to this at the genetic level and therefore are often used as guards, watchmen and defenders, as well as faithful companions and simply pets.

Breed standard

The Bergamasco is a medium-sized dog of proportional build with strong bones and a well-developed muscular corset . A well-balanced body of a square format (the length of the body is equal to the height at the withers) with high and long, clearly defined withers, a straight, wide and muscular back, a somewhat convex loin, a sloping, powerful, widened croup, a voluminous sternum lowered to the level of the elbows and smoothly rising up the belly line.

The Bergamasco's physique is powerful and muscular.

Breed standard:

• The large head, shaped like a parallelepiped, with a wide rounded skull, a well-defined central groove and a noticeable bump on the back of the head, is set on a slightly curved neck (the scruff is pronounced). The truncated muzzle, equal in length to the skull, tapers towards the nose.
• The jaws are developed (the lower one is larger and more powerful) in a regular scissor bite. Complete dentition. Thin lips, brightly pigmented at the edges, barely covering the teeth.
• The eyes are large, oval, closely spaced with very long eyelashes and black-rimmed eyelids. Iris of all shades of chestnut. The look is intelligent, attentive, calm and soft.
• Triangular, rounded at the tips (with fringe), half-lowered ears are set high, hanging on cartilage.
• The large, moist nose is pigmented black. The stop is well balanced.
• Powerful and thick, the saber-shaped tail tapers towards the end. When calm, it hangs down, when excited, and also rises in the form of a flag when in motion.
• The straight limbs, proportional to the height, are massive and muscular, the paws are oval with arched, closed toes, dark elastic pads and hard, strong, curved claws (black or brown).
• Body weight: in females - 26–32 kg;
• for males - 32–38 kg.

The Bergamasco Shepherd moves freely and easily, mainly at a wide trot with a large amount of space. The dog is able to quickly switch to a gallop and move at this pace for quite a long time.

Features of the coat

The original coat is the hallmark of this breed . The coat is extremely long, shaggy and abundant with a very dense and short undercoat that tightly covers the skin and is greasy to the touch. On the body (especially in front) the hair is hard and coarse, reminiscent of a goat's, and as it grows, it is twisted into cords (dreadlocks) of uniform thickness, and can form dense discs (cakes) that cover the dog like a shell.

The Bergamasco Shepherd's coat is very long and matted.

Corded dreadlocks that hang from the back grow throughout life and can reach the ground. On the legs the fur is softer and falls in strands. Shorter coat on the head, but the strands fall over the eyes and also cover the muzzle and ears.

The standard allows the following colors:

• all shades of gray;
• matte black;
• fawn light;
• Isabella (blue-fawn).

White markings are allowed, but their area should not exceed 20% of the dog's total coat area.

Disadvantages, defects and disqualifying characteristics

A defect is any deviation from standard characteristics, its severity is assessed by the degree of severity and difference from the standard.

The following are considered vices:

• the head is too light, narrow or rough;
• poorly pigmented nose;
• undershot;
• strabismus;
• curled tail;
• deviations from growth.

The reasons for disqualification will be:

• depigmentation of the nose or eyelids (complete);
• muzzle convex or concave;
• underdeveloped lower jaw;
• different eye colors;
• the tail is underdeveloped or absent;
• complete white color or spots more than 1/5 of the total body area.

Description of the Bergamasco Shepherd breed standard

The Bergamasco Shepherd breed standard was approved in 1992.

The Bergamasco color revolves around different shades of dark gray with minor splashes of other colors. White color is unacceptable; this is grounds for discarding the litter.

Photo 2. Bergamasco Shepherds are frequent guests of various exhibitions

Males at the withers can reach 62 cm, females - 58 cm. The weight of males reaches 38 kg, females - 32 kg.

The fur on Bergamasque Shepherds hangs in matted strands (flattened tangles), the thickness of which can reach 2-2.5 cm.

This is a strong and active dog with a well-proportioned, muscular body and powerful paws.

Many breeders consider this dog to be an ideal shepherd with excellent instincts.

Character of the breed

The Bergamasco's character is good-natured and flexible, but at the same time decisive, independent and a little stubborn . The pet is infinitely devoted to its only and dearly beloved owner, perceives all other members of the family as its own flock and is ready, if necessary, to selflessly protect them. The dog needs to constantly be close to people; it is extremely difficult for him to remain alone for a long time. Alone, he gets bored and is quite capable of destructive, even destructive behavior.

Bergamasco vigilantly guards the territory entrusted to him

A smart and cautious animal constantly keeps everyone in its field of vision, this is where its herding past comes into play. It is capable of making independent decisions without waiting for a response from people. Being very sociable, these dogs get along well with everyone, including other pets (including cats), to whom they are quite protective.

Bergamasco Shepherds develop cheerful and positive relationships with children; the dogs take part in children's games and pranks with great pleasure, but they do not allow frivolity and will not allow themselves to be offended. They perceive strangers warily, but never show open aggression. The protective qualities inherent in their genes allow these dogs to instantly concentrate and resolutely stand up to protect the property entrusted to them.

Bergamasco Shepherds are literally pathologically loyal and affectionate. They follow on the heels of their owner or other household members if he is absent. The Bergamasco's favorite pastime is to lie at the master's feet in a sweet slumber, looking at the others from under half-closed eyelids.

Care and maintenance

This dog is adapted to life in open space; it is absolutely not suitable for an apartment. As well as for the leash and for being in the enclosure. It requires hours of walking in the fresh air. But this is not enough, they need to have plenty of frolic in the open space. It's better if you have a country house.

There in the yard, not on a chain, she will feel great

This is important not only for the dog’s well-being, but also for the condition of its coat. Staying in the fresh air provides ventilation and keeps hair looking healthy.

If she is in the apartment, the tangles will begin to emit an unpleasant odor.

Of course, first of all, their unique coat needs attention. Caring for her requires patience and time. Until they are one year old, they need to be regularly bathed and combed, after which they need to be washed 2-3 times a year, no more often. You just need to do this carefully so as not to unravel the cords. Use special shampoos and conditioners for this.

The dog takes a long time to dry. Do not comb its famous “tangles.” It also needs to be trimmed according to a special pattern to give the dogs the appropriate appearance. It’s better not to do haircuts yourself if you don’t have experience in this.

A Bergamasco shepherd dog that is cut improperly will lose its unique appearance; besides, the coat is its protection from the external environment; it will feel “naked.” When caring for fur, it is also better to turn to professionals.

Your pet's teeth and ears should be regularly brushed, eyes wiped, and nails trimmed if they do not wear down naturally. The fur around the eyes is trimmed regularly. And after eating, wipe the fur near the mouth with a damp cloth to avoid darkening and unpleasant odor.

Bergamascos have fairly good health and good immunity. Due to their genetic resistance to harsh climates, they are hardy, and adapt quite well to different living and climatic conditions. Since the breed is rare and small in number, it is difficult to talk about birth diseases.

Owners and breeders are advised to pay attention only to the condition of the joints of the limbs (like all large dogs, the breed is prone to dysplasia of the elbow and hip joints), and also be attentive to the pet’s stomach and eyes. Their excellent health does not negate the need for regular vaccinations, as well as treating the dog for parasites

Pros of Bergamasco:

• Exotic look.
• Loyalty and communication skills.
• Innate love for children.
• Excellent guarding and herding abilities.
• Good health.

Minuses:

• Stubbornness and some laziness.
• Special care for unique coat.
• Keeping outdoors is desirable, not recommended in an apartment.

How to choose a puppy and its cost

Bergamasco Shepherds are considered a rare breed, their population is small . The bulk of nurseries are concentrated in their historical homeland - Italy. Buying a puppy is very difficult; in Russia it is almost impossible. You will have to contact the International Association of Fans of this breed, where they will suggest a reliable breeder.

The Bergamasco Shepherd puppy does not yet have dreadlocks; they appear only after a year

Baby Bergamascos cost about a thousand dollars, but there are so few of them that you have to pre-order and wait in line.

Features of care

Caring for a Bergamasco Shepherd is not that easy.

Grooming

The main difficulty is the unique rope-like dog hair, the care of which consists of the following:

• The formed tangles are separated by hand, tearing them into strips of the required width (1.5–3 cm). You can't unravel them. Stuck debris (twigs, leaves, etc.) is removed manually. Visible dirt is removed with a brush.
• Brush the hair on the neck regularly (2-3 times a week).
• Dreadlocks falling into the eyes are pinned with an elastic band or a hairpin.
• Water treatments are carried out no more than 2-3 times a year, using gentle shampoos and conditioners for long-haired animals.
• Periodically, as it grows, the hair between the paw pads, as well as around the genitals and under the tail is trimmed.
• The face is washed or wiped with wet wipes, removing any remaining food. This will help prevent unpleasant odors.

It is prohibited to cut show animals, since after this the wool may no longer regain its original exotic appearance.

Exhibition animals should not be cut under any circumstances.

Hygiene

The remaining hygiene procedures are no different:

• regularly (every 5-7 days) examine the eyes and ears, wipe and clean them using cotton swabs or disks soaked in zoo lotion, herbal decoction or simply clean boiled water.
• brush your teeth with a special brush and paste for animals that does not require rinsing (once every 7–10 days);
• shorten the claws once every 3-4 weeks, if they do not grind down on their own, using a nail clipper.

Training a large working dog to brush its teeth is very, very difficult. We were never able to cope with our German Drahthaar dog; she stubbornly refused to undergo this procedure and constantly bit the brush. It was necessary to start brushing your teeth at a very early age.

Walk

A shepherd dog, accustomed to freedom, needs to move a lot . She should be able to run around a large area and play with her relatives. You will need to walk your pet at least twice a day for 1.5–2 hours.

The breed is ideal for people leading an active lifestyle, since pets can be taken with them for a morning jog, bike ride and other outdoor activities.

Bergamasco is not averse to running and playing with his fellow tribesmen

Nutrition

It is preferable to feed working dogs with home-made, freshly prepared food, but it is quite acceptable to organize food based on store-bought freeze-dried formulations, giving preference to food of at least premium class (Royal Canin, Brit, etc.). Adults are given food twice a day; puppies, depending on their age, are fed more often (3–6 times).

The natural diet consists of:

• raw or scalded lean meat (turkey, beef, goat, etc.);
• offal (lungs, tripe, kidneys, heart, etc.);
• ocean fish;
• low-fat fermented milk products (ryazhenka, cottage cheese, kefir, etc.);
• boiled vegetables (cabbage, carrots, pumpkin, etc.);
• unrefined vegetable oils;
• cereals (rolled oats, buckwheat, rice, etc.), bran;
• vitamin and mineral supplements.

It is forbidden to give shepherd dogs fatty meats, smoked and pickled foods, bakery and pasta products, as well as sweets.

Maintenance and care

The Bergamasco Shepherd does not feel comfortable in the apartment.
Dogs with a herding instinct need free space and fresh air. Therefore, the ideal maintenance option is a house with a garden plot. If the Bergamasco lives in an enclosure, it should be spacious with a large booth. Install the enclosure itself not in a draft or in the sun. If the yard is securely fenced, then the dog can freely walk around the entire area, laying down to rest in the booth. He is a homebody and will never leave the territory he is supposed to protect. If you decide to keep a Bergamasco Shepherd in a house or apartment, be sure to walk it daily. The pet should have the opportunity to splash out the accumulated energy. A bored Bergamasco, locked in a confined space for a long time, can direct excess energy towards destroying its home. He may get sick and become depressed. While walking, the shepherd behaves calmly without a muzzle and even without a leash. She is so devoted to her owner that she will not leave him even a step. Does not show aggression towards strangers. The Bergamasco's reaction to strangers is indifference or friendliness, provided that they do not pose a threat. Among all the conditions for proper care of the Bergamasco Shepherd, the most important and time-consuming is the care of its unique coat. Of course, in addition to this, other procedures will be required, as outlined in the list below: The coat of the Bergamasco is not the same in different parts of the body.

Therefore, you need to take care of each individual area taking into account the quality and length of the coat. Dreadlocks do not need to be combed; they are neatly tidied up by hand. We comb the hair on the neck two to three times a week. It is recommended to entrust the care of the coat of show dogs to experienced specialists. Grooming of the Bergamasco is not necessary, because of this the unique appearance of the dog is lost. It will take about 5 years for the strands of wool to fully recover after shearing. Only owners of working shepherd dogs, which are used as shepherds, regularly trim their pets to make it easier for them to move and endure the summer heat. Regardless of use, the Bergamasco Shepherd will need regular trimming around the genitals and anus, as well as hair between the paw pads. You should only bathe your Bergamasco when absolutely necessary.

Water procedures are recommended in the form of a shower. The fact is that thick strands take a very long time to dry. As a result, skin inflammation and irritation may appear under wet fur. To prevent the fur on the face from acquiring an unsightly brown tint over time and emitting an unpleasant odor, it is necessary to wipe the face with a damp towel or napkin after each feeding, removing any remaining food. If the claws do not grind down naturally during walks, we trim them using a nail clipper. We regularly examine the eyes and ears for signs of inflammation, excessive accumulation of secretions and injuries. Having discovered such phenomena, we urgently show the shepherd to a veterinarian. Provide a balanced diet for Bergamasco.

Buy dry, canned or natural food only of the highest class, high quality and in no case past the expiration date. We feed puppies 6-3 times a day, depending on their age. Adults need two meals a day. During estrus, the bitch usually loses her appetite, and sometimes even refuses to eat. During this period, it is recommended to switch the dog to one meal and reduce the daily intake. The Bergamasco Shepherd's diet should contain 30% or more protein (lean meats, offal, sea fish). Carbohydrates in the form of vegetables and cereals are also important. It is forbidden to feed: smoked meats, sweets, fatty meats, potatoes, legumes. Due to the fact that Bergamasco is not active and often leads a sedentary lifestyle, it can quickly gain excess weight, eventually suffering from obesity

It is important that the owner controls the calorie content of foods and the shepherd’s nutritional standards.

Health Bergamasco

Nature, harsh weather conditions and natural selection have endowed Bergamo Shepherds with good health and strong immunity. They do not suffer from any hereditary genetic pathologies. Occasionally problems with the musculoskeletal system (hip dysplasia) are identified, but this is typical for all large breeds. You will need to undergo annual vaccination, deworming (every six months) and fight skin parasites (fleas, ticks, etc.) using sprays, drops, collars and other means.

With proper care, Bergamasco can easily live up to 13–15 years.

Maintenance and care

The Bergamasco Shepherd is absolutely not suitable for keeping in a city apartment. It is permissible to keep this dog in the city only if the owner is always at home. A lonely Bergamasco is deeply unhappy; the shepherd dog needs constant physical activity.

The ideal option for keeping this breed is a private house with a large garden plot. These are dogs for active people; phlegmatic people are not recommended to take a Bergamasco Shepherd as a pet.

Due to the breed's predisposition to diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, breeders recommend feeding the dog with ready-made food. You cannot skimp on your pet’s health; the food must be of good quality and a reputable brand. Otherwise, diarrhea or constipation cannot be avoided.

A separate point should be made about the problematic care of Bergamasco fur. They should not be washed more than 3-4 times a year. There is no need to comb or trim the dog either. The fur tangles and protects the dog from harsh mountain weather conditions. If blades of grass, leaves and other debris get into the undercoat, you need to carefully pick them out with your hands, without unraveling the breed’s “dreadlocks.”

Grooming is very easy

It is strictly forbidden to cut the Bergamasco Shepherd's hair; the hair does not grow to the required length, and the dog loses the main distinctive feature of the breed.

Training and education of the Bergamasco Shepherd

Smart, quick-witted and extremely intelligent, Bergamasco Shepherds are highly trainable, but tend to be lazy and stubborn. It is necessary to socialize and educate a puppy from a very early age, literally from the very first days of his appearance in the house.

An animal with a stubborn and independent character is sometimes difficult to subdue, so when working with this breed it is necessary to act persistently and systematically, but it is better not to resort to rudeness.

Bergamascos are very easy to train