Bergamasco

The function of the Bergamasco Shepherd is to guide and guard the herd, task for which he shows exemplary disposition thanks to his vigilance, his concentration and psychological balance- His learning faculty and determination combined with his moderation and patience make of him an excellent guard and companion dog, suited to the most divers uses. He establishes a close relationship with man.

This ancient breed of guard dogs of herds has spread all over the region of the Italian Alps; the total number of these dogs was especially great in the Bergamasca valleys, where the breeding of sheep was highly developed.

The Bergamasco is best suited for cold climates. They are not recommended for apartment or city dwelling. They do best in a rural setting with room to roam, being given a job to do, and playtime with their family.

Positive training and socialization.

The Bergamasco breed requires occasional brushing. The "cords" of the coat must be separated by hand and lightly brushed individually. Bathing should only be done when absolutely necessary as the Bergamasco takes an extremely long time to dry. Due to the rarity of this breed there are no known health issues or concerns.

It is not a hard to train dog. It needs to be socialized since an early age. The training must be firm, but without severe punishments.

While it is a cub, a regularly combing should be enough, but as it grows and the fur begins to tangle, little tufts of hair of 3 cm in diameter must be grabed by hand. The hair on its head needs regularly combing, bathing should be done regularly only during the summer time because it requires many days to dry.

Dewclaws may be removed. Flocks usually start growing before the dog's first birthday and reach the ground around the fifth year. Shaving or clipping can result in dense mats, not flocks, that block oil production in the skin and create severe skin condit