• Hungarian Language
  • English Language

Bergamasco Information & Dog Breed Facts

Collection of all the general dog breed info about Bergamasco so you can get to know the breed more.

Group Pastoral / Herding Dogs
Popularity Rank181
Reviews0
User Ratings
Compare the Bergamasco With Other Dogs
Select at least one dog breed to make the comparsion.
 
 
Bergamasco dog profile picture
OriginItaly flagItaly
Common Names & Aliases
What other names is a Bergamasco known by? Discover all traditional, regional and informal names used for this breed.
BergermaschiCane da pastore BergamascoBergamasco Shepherd Dog
Breed Classification
What type of dog breed is a Bergamasco? Learn about its genetic classification and breeding category.
Purebred

Bergamasco Size and Weight

Size Classification
What size category is a Bergamasco? Learn how big the Bergamasco breed typically grows.
Large
Weight Statistics
How much does a Bergamasco weigh? Discover typical weight ranges for adult males and females of the Bergamasco breed.
Male: 70-84 pounds (32-38 kg), Female: 57-71 pounds (26-32 kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of a Bergamasco?
Male: 77 pounds (35 kg), Female: 61 pounds (29 kg)
Height
How tall is the Bergamasco? Bergamasco height:
22-24 inches (54-62 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of a Bergamasco?
23 inches (58 cm)

Bergamasco Price and Availability

Price Range
How much does a Bergamasco puppy cost? Find current market prices and factors affecting Bergamasco costs.
$1000-$1300
If you choose to purchase the Bergamasco, you should know that the mentioned amount of money is an average of the collected data from breeders’ sites and puppy finder places. If you have a Bergamasco for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the Bergamasco gets to a happy place.
Availability
How easy is it to get a Bergamasco? How many Bergamasco are there in the world?
Frequent: The Bergamasco is easier than average to get. Maybe there is some risk of overbreeding, as it is a popular breed.

Due to its popularity, inbreeding may occur. A new study shows that inbreeding contributes to the incidence of disease and health problems.

So be careful and seek the help of an experienced person or a professional, in making your decision.

Bergamasco Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligence Rating
How intelligent is a Bergamasco? Discover the Bergamasco's intelligence ranking and learning capabilities.
Low to average: This canine intelligence is not the brightest one. Keep in mind that if you want to teach them any tricks, they understand and memorize new commands in 40-80 repetitions. Bergamasco obey the first command 30% of the time or better. So if you want to have a smart dog, you might have to reconsider your choice with this breed.

The Bergamasco ranks below average in the intelligence ranking of dogs.

Training Difficulty
How easy is it to train a Bergamasco? Learn about the Bergamasco's trainability and response to training methods.
A slightly harder to train than average. Bergamasco dogs aren't famous for their trainability. This breed needs more time and repetition to obey. It's challenging to teach them new commands, but not impossible.
Watchdog Rating
How good is a Bergamasco as a watchdog? Learn about the Bergamasco's alertness and guarding instincts.
Bergamasco dogs are good watchdogs. Their main job is to observe and they're consistent in their effort. Good vocal cords and a sense of hearing belong to them. Usually, they're territorial and protective about their property, so the Bergamasco dogs will alert you if they sense something different.
Territorial Protection
Is a Bergamasco protective of its territory? Learn about the Bergamasco's guarding instincts and behavior.
Bergamasco dogs strongly protect their territory. This breed is a complete security guard, so you don't have to be afraid in case of danger.

Bergamasco Personality and Temperament

Personality Traits
What personality does a Bergamasco have? Learn about characteristic Bergamasco temperament and behavior traits.
PatientQuietDeterminedVigilant
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Bergamasco sensitivity:
Bergamasco dogs are less sensitive than other dog breeds. They aren't receptive to their owner's emotions and handle soft punishment quite well.

They don't mind an always changing daily routine, a hectic household, young children, a noisy or office environment, and frequent guest visits.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is a Bergamasco a good family dog?
Average to High: Bergamasco dogs are highly affectionate dogs. They like being involved in the family's life. This breed isn't considered an aloof dog.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Bergermaschi need? Bergamasco social needs:
Bergamasco dogs are a social breed. They enjoy being around people or other animals. This breed doesn't tolerate being left alone.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Bergamasco to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Bergamasco roam?
Bergamasco dogs tend to escape less than other breeds. They have low to average wanderlust potential. Exploring the world is not the best activity they can imagine.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Bergamasco have high prey drive?
Bergamasco dogs have an average prey drive, which means that they don't have a high impulse to chase and catch something like a cat or any other small aminals, but it might happen. Training can help to achieve good behavior.

Bergamasco Activity and Playfulness

Barking Frequency
Does a Bergamasco bark a lot? Learn about typical Bergamasco vocalization patterns and triggers.
Low to Average: The Bergamasco rarely barks. This breed could be a good choice if you're looking for a quiet breed. They don't bark unless there is a good reason.

Top reasons for barking: protection, alarm, fear, boredom, attention-seeking, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking.

Playful Nature
How playful is a Bergamasco? Understand the typical play drive and energy level of the Bergamasco breed.
Average: Bergamascos, like any other dog breed, like playing. Sometimes they bark in excitement for playing, but they are not the most playful dog breed.
Apartment Adaptability
Can a Bergamasco live in an apartment? Learn about the Bergamasco's suitability for apartment living.
It is not the best choice if you want to keep them indoors, however, with careful exercise and several walks a day, they will tolerate the indoor environment, so it is possible to keep Bergamasco indoors.

Bergamasco Adaptability and Independence

Lifestyle Adaptability
How adaptable is a Bergamasco to lifestyle changes? Learn about the Bergamasco's flexibility to new situations.
Bergamasco dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments. They don't mind moving from one place to another with their owner.
Alone Time Tolerance
Can a Bergamasco be left alone? Learn about the Bergamasco's tolerance to solitude.
Bergamasco dogs do best when a family member is at home during the day or if their workplace is dog-friendly so they can take the dog at work.

Bergamasco Bite Characteristics

Bite Risk Assessment
What is a Bergamasco biting potential? Learn about the Bergamasco's bite risk factors.

Low 🔽

The Bergamasco has a low chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.)
Mouthing Tendency
Is a Bergamasco mouthy? Learn about the Bergamasco's tendency to use mouth during play.
Bergamasco dogs have an average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but Bergamasco dogs need to be taught a good attitude.
Bite Strength Rating
How strong is a Bergamasco bite? Learn about the Bergamasco's bite force measured in PSI.

Between 200 and 400 PSI

Bergamasco bite force: Ordinary. Bite force Bergamasco measurements typically fall within the range of 200 to 400 PSI. The bite force of a Bergamasco is considered ordinary when compared to other dog breeds, but it is still quite powerful. This Bergamasco bite force PSI can cause bite wounds. Bergamasco bite PSI is not something that should be feared if the dog is well-trained and managed. To avoid any issues, it's essential to learn how to train a Bergamasco puppy not to bite from an early age.

The Bergamasco, and many others, have a fearsome presence because they have significant jaw strength, so it is important not to anger the dog and have it around strangers until it is fully trained.

However, they are usually quite calm and good companions, they work well in families and are easy to care for.

In conclusion, while the Bergamasco bite force is certainly an interesting aspect of the breed, it is important not to let it overshadow the many other reasons why these dogs are so loved and respected. With proper training and socialization, a Bergamasco can be a loyal and protective companion for your family.

Bergamasco Health and Lifespan

Average Lifespan
How long does a Bergamasco live? Learn about the typical lifespan of the Bergamasco breed.
13-15 years
The average lifespan of Bergamasco: 14 years
Climate Tolerance
How well does a Bergamasco handle different weather? Learn about the Bergamasco's climate adaptability.
Prefers average to cold weather conditions
The Bergamasco can adapt to well to cold weather conditions, some dogs even can be a good mountain dog.
Health Concerns
What health issues are common in a Bergamasco? Discover typical conditions affecting the Bergamasco breed.
Bergamascos tend to have more frequent health issues than other breeds. Regular vet check-ups are needed.
Vet Care Frequency
How often does a Bergamasco need vet visits? Learn about the Bergamasco's veterinary care requirements.
Frequent
The Bergamasco should have a complete physical check-up at least once (but preferably twice) per year. If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.
Health Problems
What genetic/health problems does the Bergamasco breed have? What are the health issues and concerns of the Bergamasco breed? Most common health risks of Bergamasco:
BloatSkin AllergiesJoint Dysplasia

Bergamasco Energy and Activity

Energy Rating
How energetic is a Bergamasco? Understand daily activity needs of the Bergamasco breed.
Bergamasco dogs have a higher energy level than other dog breeds. If you want a dog for snuggling on the couch, this breed isn't the perfect choice for you.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does a Bergamasco need? How much exercise do Bergamasco dogs require per day?

Do Bergamasco dogs need a lot of exercises?

Bergamasco dogs need quite a lot of exercise. Daily walks should be on schedule. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Bergamasco breed need?
Bergamasco dogs are quite energetic dogs and they don't spend too much time with sleeping. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.

Bergamasco Diet and Weight Management

Obesity Tendency
Is a Bergamasco prone to weight gain? Learn about the Bergamasco's obesity risks.
Average: The Bergamasco has an average risk for obesity. Daily walks should be on schedule. To make your dog happy and fit, feed him with quality dry dog food and live an active life together. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding.

If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the Bergamasco weight regularly.

Food Consumption
How much food does a Bergamasco need daily? Learn about the Bergamasco's feeding requirements.
4 to 5 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.

Bergamasco Allergies and Grooming

Allergy Friendliness
Is a Bergamasco hypoallergenic? Learn about the Bergamasco's suitability for allergy sufferers.
Yes
Bergamasco dogs do well with allergy sufferers by causing fewer allergic reaction. However there are no 100% hypoallergenic dogs in the world, there are a variety of breeds that are considered to reduce or minimize the possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
Coat Colors
What colors does a Bergamasco come in? Discover all possible Bergamasco color variations.
Grey
Grooming Requirements
How much grooming does a Bergamasco need? Learn about Bergamasco coat maintenance requirements.
Easy to groom: The Bergamasco doesn't require a lot of grooming. Seasonal flea treatment is needed, but cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer isn't necessary.

Ears and eyes should be cleaned regularly to avoid infections. Bergamasco is a good choice if you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of a high-maintenance dog.

Recommended for beginners.
Drooling Tendency
Does a Bergamasco drool a lot? Learn about the Bergamasco's drooling habits.
The Bergamasco is an average drooler. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem.

If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible.

Stinkiness Rating
Does a Bergamasco smell bad? Learn about the Bergamasco's natural odor levels.

Medium

The Bergamasco has an average chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Coat Characteristics
What type of coat does a Bergamasco have? Learn about the Bergamasco's fur characteristics.
FineDense
Bathing Needs
How often does a Bergamasco need baths? Learn about the Bergamasco's bathing requirements.
3-4 weeks
More often than average. These dog coats tend to be longer, softer, and oilier than short-haired breeds. While a good bath every now and then is a great way to keep your buddy from becoming overly smelly, be mindful about overbathing.

Bathing will wash away your dog’s natural oils, while a simple brushing every few days should keep them clean.

Shedding Level
How much do Bergamasco dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Bergermaschi? Do Bergamasco dogs shed a lot?
Bergamasco dogs shed none to minimal. Having a puppy from this breed you don't have to be afraid of your couch or car being covered by dog hair. Bergamasco dogs could be the best choice if you don't tolerate dog hair.

Bergamasco Good With

Child Compatibility
Is a Bergamasco good with children? Learn about the Bergamasco's behavior around kids of different ages.
Bergamasco dogs are very kid-friendly dogs. This breed enjoys being surrounded by children.
Pet Compatibility
How well does a Bergamasco get along with other pets? Discover the Bergamasco's compatibility with other animals.
Bergamasco dogs are generally with other pets.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Bergamasco temperament with other people:
Bergamasco dogs are not the most stranger-friendly dogs.
Cat Friendly
How well do Bergamasco dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the Bergamasco breed live with a cat?
Bergamasco dogs are average friendly towards cats.
Dog Friendly
Is Bergamasco good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Bergamasco dogs get along with other dogs?
Bergamasco dogs are average friendly towards other dogs.
Good For First Time Owners
Is Bergamasco breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Bergamasco breed suitable for first-time owners?
No
Bergamasco dogs are not good for novice owners, due to their stubborn personality.
Office Friendly
Are Bergamasco dogs good office canines? Do Bergamasco dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
No
Bergamasco is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Bergamasco dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Bergermaschi temperament with senior people? Are Bergamasco dogs good for elderly owners?
Bergamascos are one of the best breeds for elderly people.

Bergamasco As a Working Dog

Service Dog Capability
Can a Bergamasco be a service dog? Learn about the Bergamasco's service work potential.

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

Bergamasco is not the best breed for service purposes.

Therapy Work Suitability
Is a Bergamasco good as a therapy dog? Learn about the Bergamasco's therapy work aptitude.

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.

Bergamasco is not the best breed for therapeutic purposes.

Scent Detection Ability
Is a Bergamasco good at detection work? Learn about the Bergamasco's scenting abilities.

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.

Bergamasco is not the best breed for detection purposes.

Search & Rescue Potential
Can a Bergamasco do search and rescue? Learn about the Bergamasco's SAR capabilities.

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and locating missing people.

The Bergamasco is not the best breed for SAR purposes.

Maritime Work Ability
Is a Bergamasco good on boats? Learn about the Bergamasco's maritime capabilities.

Not really

Bergamasco breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Draft Work Capability
Can a Bergamasco pull carts? Learn about the Bergamasco's drafting abilities.

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.

Bergamasco is not the best breed for drafting purposes.

Military Service Background
Was a Bergamasco used in military service? Learn about the Bergamasco's military history.

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Bergamasco Reproducibility

Puppy Litter Size
How many puppies does a Bergamasco usually have? Learn about typical litter sizes.
6-10 puppies
Pregnancy Duration
How long is a Bergamasco pregnant? Learn about the Bergamasco's gestation period.

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female Bergamasco: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.

During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge.

The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days.

The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color.

The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating.

The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months.

Breeding Frequency
How often can a Bergamasco have puppies? Learn about safe breeding intervals.

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year.

Bergamasco Recognition

AKC Classification
What AKC group is a Bergamasco in? Learn about the Bergamasco's AKC classification.
Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2015 as a Herding breed.
FCI Classification
What FCI group is a Bergamasco in? Learn about the Bergamasco's international classification.
Not recognized by FCI.
Kennel Club Recognition
Which kennel clubs recognize a Bergamasco? Learn about the Bergamasco's official recognition.
American Canine RegistryAmerican Kennel ClubAmerica's Pet RegistryDog Registry of America Inc.Federation Cynologique InternationaleNorth American Purebred Registry, Inc.American Canine Association, Inc.United Kennel Club

Bergamasco Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Allergy Friendliness: Bergamasco dogs do well with allergy sufferers by causing fewer allergic reaction.
  • Grooming Requirements: Easy to groom: The Bergamasco doesn't require a lot of grooming.
  • Shedding Level: Bergamasco dogs shed none to minimal.
  • Watchdog Rating: Bergamasco dogs are good watchdogs.
  • Impulse to Wander or Roam: Bergamasco dogs tend to escape less than other breeds.
  • Lifestyle Adaptability: Bergamasco dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
  • Child Compatibility: Bergamasco dogs are very kid-friendly dogs.
  • Senior Citizens Friendly: Bergamascos are one of the best breeds for elderly people.
Cons
  • Intelligence Rating: Low to average: This canine intelligence is not the brightest one.
  • Training Difficulty: A slightly harder to train than average.
  • Health Concerns: Bergamascos tend to have more frequent health issues than other breeds.
  • Alone Time Tolerance: Bergamasco dogs do best when a family member is at home during the day or if their workplace is dog-friendly so they can take the dog at work.
  • Office Friendly: Bergamasco is not the best dog breed for office environment.
  • Good For First Time Owners: Bergamasco dogs are not good for novice owners, due to their stubborn personality.

Rate The Bergamasco Breed

Bergamasco Comments, Reviews and Questions