A devoted and wise Bergamish shepherd

This breed, described as a shepherd dog from the Bergamasco region, was mentioned by the Romans two thousand years ago. It is believed that the Bergamish sheepdog was brought to Northern Italy by the ancient Phoenicians, and has since settled down there. Pre-Alpine region for centuries has built its economy on the production of wool, and therefore, needed dogs of shepherds. A shepherd from the vicinity of Bergamo has proved to be the best guard of the herds in the changing climate of the foothills of the Alps - sunny in the summer and rainy or snowy in the winter. Her eyes from the rays of the scorching sun protect the bangs, and thick and long hair protects the body from overheating and hypothermia, besides, it protects the animal from the attack of predators.

Unfortunately, with the reduction of pasture land, the need for four-legged guard flocks also decreased. In our region, the Bergman Shepherd was little known, but now the demand for it is growing. Due to its distinctive feature - wool, which is crocheted in long curly cords, the breed is easily recognizable. It is considered prestigious, and not at all for the ability to graze cattle. Thanks to exceptional wit and grandiose scent (the shepherds claim that Bergamasko smells its sheep from others by smell), the representatives of this breed are used for official purposes - as assistants to border guards, customs officers, police officers and even firefighters.

Exterior bergamasco is similar to the description of a Komondor dog. But the sheep dog from the Alps is slightly smaller: at the withers the height of the ideal representative is 60 cm in the male and 56 cm in the female (an error of two centimeters is allowed). The weight of the dog should vary between 32-37 kg in males and 26-33 kg in females. Ears are small, triangular in shape, hanging. Color preferably monophonic, different shades of dark gray. Very prestigious is the color of "salt with pepper". Small markings of white, pale or black color are admissible, but they should not exceed in size one fifth of the animal's body. This color, together with a long and wavy rune, serves as a shepherd dog as a kind of disguise from predators and thieves, who can not immediately distinguish "shepherd" from his herd.

The Bergman Shepherd has excellent health. No "thoroughbred" diseases have not been found yet. Despite the fact that these dogs belong to large breeds, they usually live longer - twelve or fourteen years. Females bring in an average of 8 puppies in one litter, less often six and ten. The nature of these dogs is good-natured and easy-going. If you start training at an early age, the pet will show considerable intelligence and ingenuity. To "his" people the shepherd is very attached, is an excellent guard for children, a balanced companion for the elderly. However, to other people, she is incredulous and can show aggressiveness.

Sheepdogs of bergamo breed need physical exertion. It is best to have such a dog if you have a house with a private plot. But if you decide to start a bergamasco in an apartment, you should clearly be aware of the need for daily and long walks with your pet. To other representatives of his species, this dog can show hostility, but not because of innate aggression, but because it may think that they threaten "his flock". If you want to have an obedient and intelligent companion with social behavior, do not stint on the services of a canine school.

The Bergman Shepherd needs care, primarily because of its thick and long fur. Do not even try to comb it - it still will not work. However, every day the pet's fur needs to be disassembled with fingers on strands, so that they do not gather in unaesthetic pancakes. Only the head and neck of a dog can be scratched. Bathing bergamasco only needs to be showered several times a year, however, after each meal, it is recommended to wipe the face of the pet with a wet napkin to prevent an unpleasant smell, and to keep the hair light.