Bergamasco Notes

1. The Bergamasco is a great family dog, companion of all ages and adores children. However, the Bergamasco can be leary of strangers, folks they do not know and not so dog friendly of other dogs outside of their home. “Herding, Flock, Guardian” — They are not a Golden Retriever or anything like the doodle dogs that are now popular.
    
2. The coat is very slow growing. It is part of their make-up, as our hair is to us. The coat helps to protect from the outside elements, possible attacks from other animals, and especially the hot sun or zero degree temperatures.
    
3. Shearing the Coat — We are highly against keeping the coat clipped or sheared short for the reasons stated above; however, we recommend a mid-length, around 3 to 4 years, if not involved in shows or just prefer the coat from growing to the ground. This is a very manageable length and easy to care for, especially for the males.
    
4. Washing — The coat itself is very clean. The less you wash it, believe it or not, the cleaner it stays. The natural oils in the coat help to protect it from getting dirty. Spot bathing is recommended around the face, undercarriage and around the tail. When you do wash the coat fully, using high velocity fans helps to make the drying process quicker and prevents mildew if the coat does not dry all the way through, similar to a wool sweater left in the washer.
    
5. Grooming — There is very little grooming once the Bergamasco reaches maturity. It is important that the face has little or small mats — This helps to keep it clean from food and constant wetness from water. We have custom water bowls available in our Flock Shop that have smaller openings to prevent the snout from getting too wet and for those who are face dunkers.
    
6. Brushes — There are only two brushes that you would need besides the natural grooming of your hands, which is what is preferred. A Pin Brush for the head, face, ears, and muzzle which should be used to keep this area from matting up too much and a Slicker Brush for the later years to brush off any surface dirt.
   * It has been noted on other sites to use a mat splitter. One should never ever use a mat splitter on a Bergamasco coat. This is a natural breed, and should be left as natural as possible.
    
7. Males/Females — There is not a big difference between the sexes. Females traditionally are smaller, more independent at times and yes, a bit more vocal outside. Males are larger, can be more protective of other dogs, especially other male dogs, and at times a Mama’s Boy.
    
8. Do they love cats? Many of our owners have lived peacefully with both cat and dog. I recommend the cat should be in the house prior to the arrival of your new puppy.
    
9. Live outside — NO. The Bergamasco is a family dog and prefers to be with their human partner and cannot be left outside. Plan on having a forever follower, foot warmer, couch buddy, as well as a warm body on those cold nights.
    
10. Therapy Dog — I get many questions about being a therapy dog. Yes, the Bergamasco can be a very good therapy dog. I myself have two that are TDI license. However, early obedience training is recommended since there are a few obedience commands the Bergamasco must learn in order to pass the test.
     
11. Training — The Bergamasco is eager to please. We never use crates or crate training method. Our puppies are used to going outside and staying alone during the day and at night. The word “No,” a little common sense, and positive reinforcement goes a long way.
     

12. Off to their Forever Homes ❤️ Our puppies are placed between 10-12 weeks, never sooner. They are now mature enough to leave the pack and secure enough to start their life with their Forever Family ❤️

     
    
     

     

    ❤️ Every Puppy that leaves my home is the Best Puppy, and will remain in my heart forever,

    Donna