Bergamasco Shepherd: Size, Weight & Temperament

The Bergamasco is calm, patient and deeply bonded to its family, yet reserved and watchful toward strangers. As an independently working herding dog, it prefers to think for itself rather than blindly follow every command.

It needs regular mental stimulation and tasks; classic endurance running matters less to it than mental work. Without occupation, its herding instinct can surface as unwanted behaviour, such as herding family members.

The characteristic coat naturally mats into protective flocks and is not brushed but instead separated by hand into strands, which requires specialized knowledge. The coat takes about two years to fully form and is more labour-intensive than it first appears.

The breed is considered robust with comparatively few hereditary conditions, though hip dysplasia occurs occasionally. Because of the dense coat, the skin should be checked regularly for skin problems.