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At a glance
| Energy level | |
|---|---|
| Shedding | |
| Grooming needs | |
| Apartment-friendly | |
| Handles cold | |
| Affectionate / cuddly | |
| Good with kids | |
| Good for first-time owners | |
| Easy to train | |
| Good with other dogs | |
| Good with cats | |
| OK being left alone | |
| Reliable off-leash | |
| Protective / watchdog | |
| Barking | |
| Drooling |
Great for
- Families
- Cold climates
- People who want a low-shedding large dog
Watch out for
- Felted coat takes years to form and work to maintain
- Independent
- Rare
Daily care
Exercise: About an hour a day.
Grooming: Separate mats as they form; occasional baths.
Cold weather: Felted coat insulates against cold.
*Yearly cost covers food, routine vet care, preventatives, toys and supplies. It doesn't include the purchase or adoption fee, emergencies or grooming beyond basics.
Gear for a Bergamasco Sheepdog
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- FoodLarge breed dog food
Formulas made for large breeds match their energy needs and kibble size. Look for "complete and balanced" (AAFCO) on the bag, and ask your vet what's right for your dog.
See options on Amazon - Crate42-inch dog crate
A 42" crate fits most adult Bergamasco Sheepdogs (up to about 84 lb). Choose one with a divider so it grows with a puppy.
See options on Amazon - Leash and harnessNo-pull harness and 6-foot leash
A front-clip harness helps with pulling while your dog learns leash manners.
See options on Amazon - ToysPuzzle and snuffle toys
Food puzzles keep a calmer dog's mind busy without a lot of running.
See options on Amazon - GroomingSlicker brush and metal comb
Low-shedding coats tangle easily; brush a few times a week between grooming visits.
See options on Amazon - WinterPaw balm
Protects paws from road salt and ice, even on cold-tolerant breeds.
See options on Amazon - BedOrthopedic dog bed
Big dogs are prone to joint problems; a supportive foam bed helps.
See options on Amazon
Find a Bergamasco Sheepdog near you
We're building a list of trusted Bergamasco Sheepdog rescues, breeders and trainers. Rescues are listed first.
Listings coming soon. In the meantime:
- Search adoptable dogs near you on Petfinder
- AKC's Bergamasco Sheepdog page, which links to breed club rescue networks
Run a Bergamasco Sheepdog rescue, training or grooming business? Get listed free.
Not sure a Bergamasco Sheepdog is right for you? Take the 3-minute quiz to see which breeds fit your home and lifestyle.
Take the breed quizSimilar breeds
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Large · 55–75 lb👪 Great family dogGolden RetrieverGentle, patient and famously friendly. Goldens are great with kids and other pets, but bring a lot of hair and energy.
Large · 50–90 lb👪 Good family dogGerman ShepherdSmart, loyal and protective. German Shepherds thrive with an experienced owner who gives them a job, training and lots of exercise.