Bergamasco Shepherd Dog

Bergamasco Shepherd Dog: A loyal and intelligent companion

Who is the Bergamasco Shepherd Dog suitable for?

The Bergamasco Shepherd Dog is a dog for active and experienced people who have plenty of time and patience to train and keep their four-legged friend busy. It needs consistent and loving leadership that sets clear boundaries but also respects its independence. He is very loyal and affectionate to his caregiver, but can also be suspicious of strangers. He gets on well with children and other animals as long as he is accustomed to them from an early age.

The Bergamasco Shepherd is not a dog for the apartment or the city. It needs plenty of space and exercise to live out its urge to move and its will to work. It is therefore best suited to people who live in the countryside or in a house with a garden. He loves being outside and going for walks in all weathers. He is also suitable for various dog sports such as agility, obedience or tracking.

How can you describe the character of the Bergamasco Shepherd Dog?

The Bergamasco Shepherd Dog is an intelligent and self-confident dog that forms a close bond with its human. It is very alert and courageous, but not aggressive. He has a strong herding and protective instinct, which leads him to defend his family and his territory. However, he is also very sensitive and sensitive, sensing the mood of his human and adapting accordingly. He is not a barker, but only barks when there is a reason.

The Bergamasco Shepherd Dog is a dog with a lot of personality that has a mind of its own. He is not always easy to train as he can sometimes be stubborn or headstrong. He needs a clear hierarchy and positive reinforcement to show him what is allowed and what is not. He learns quickly and willingly when he is motivated. However, he also needs a lot of variety and challenges so that he doesn't get bored or develop undesirable behaviors.

What does the Bergamasco Shepherd Dog look like?

The Bergamasco Shepherd Dog is a medium-sized dog with a robust and harmonious build. It has a broad head with a pronounced stop and a black nose. Its eyes are almond-shaped and dark brown. His ears are triangular and drooping. Its tail is long and bushy.

The most striking feature of the Bergamasco Shepherd Dog is its coat. It is long, dense and rough, hanging down in typical felt curls. These protect the dog from the cold, moisture and parasites. The coat can have different colors, such as black, grey or brown, often with white markings on the chest, paws or tip of the tail.

How do you care for the Bergamasco Shepherd Dog?

The Bergamasco Shepherd Dog requires regular grooming to avoid matting. The coat should be brushed or combed at least once a week. Particular attention should be paid to the ears, eyes and genital area, where dirt or bacteria can easily accumulate. The coat should not be shorn as it serves as natural protection for the dog.

The Bergamasco Shepherd Dog sheds very little, but still needs to be bathed from time to time. A mild dog shampoo that does not affect the pH value of the skin should be used. The claws should be trimmed regularly to prevent them from becoming ingrown or breaking off. Teeth should be cleaned daily to prevent tartar and gingivitis. Ears should be checked and cleaned weekly to prevent ear infections.

How healthy is the Bergamasco Shepherd Dog?

The Bergamasco Shepherd Dog is a robust and healthy dog breed that has a life expectancy of around 12 to 15 years. However, it is not free from hereditary diseases, which should be taken into account when breeding. The most common diseases include

• Hip dysplasia: A malformation of the hip joint that can lead to pain, arthritis and lameness.
• Progressive retinal atrophy: A degenerative eye disease that can lead to deteriorating vision and blindness.
• Hypothyroidism: An underactive thyroid gland that can lead to symptoms such as weight gain, hair loss, fatigue and susceptibility to infection.

To minimize the risk of these diseases, you should only choose a reputable breeder who tests their dogs for these diseases and can provide appropriate health certificates. You should also have your dog checked regularly by a vet and provide it with a balanced diet and adequate exercise.

How big and heavy does the Bergamasco Shepherd Dog grow?

The Bergamasco Shepherd Dog has a height at the withers of around 54 to 62 cm in males and around 52 to 60 cm in females. The weight is around 26 to 38 kg for males and around 24 to 32 kg for females.

Does the Bergamasco Shepherd Dog need a lot of exercise or is it also suitable for the city?

The Bergamasco Shepherd Dog needs plenty of exercise and activity to meet its natural needs. It is not a dog for the city or for people who have little time. He needs at least two hours of exercise a day, which should consist of walks, play and training. He loves to explore new places and use his nose. He is also suitable for various dog sports such as agility, obedience or tracking.

The Bergamasco Shepherd Dog is not a dog for the couch or for being alone. It needs a lot of human closeness and attention. He should always be close to his family and take part in their everyday life. He is not a dog for kennels or long periods of separation. If he is neglected or isolated, he may develop behavioral problems such as barking, destroying or aggression.

Conclusion

The Bergamasco Shepherd Dog is a fascinating dog with a unique appearance and a loyal character. It is an ideal companion for people who are looking for an active and intelligent dog that will faithfully stand by their side. However, it is also a demanding dog that requires a lot of care, training and activity. He is not a dog for beginners or for people who want a quiet or submissive dog. But if you give him what he needs, he will reward you with his love and trust.