The Short Answers to Commonly Asked Questions

When strolling along with a full coated Bergamasco you come upon the same questions usually asked over and over again... Here are some of the most common questions asked.

What breed is it?

Berg a-mas-co; say it slowly.
Correct name is Pastore de Bergamasco, we are never called a Berg or Bergie.

Is it a Komondor?

Komondors are large sized dogs, white, from Hungary and were primarily guard dogs. Bergamascos are medium sized dogs, various shades of gray and black or black, from Italy and were primarily herding/flock guardians.

Can they see?

Yes, the Bergamasco can see through the hair over their eyes and sense objects as well.

Does the coat grow naturally?

Yes, the coat grows naturally into flat flocks, not cords that twist. However, you must help divide the coat into flocks roughly between the ages of 9 months to 1 1/2 years.

Do you have to do anything to maintain the coat?

Once the coat is set there is very little maintenance to the coat.

Can you brush the coat out?

No you cannot brush through the coat once it flocks. When mature, you can brush the surface to remove loose dirt.

Do they shed?

No. They can lose a little hair as you and I, but they do not shed their coat between seasons.

How much do they weigh?

A full coated male Bergamasco can weigh 75-85 pounds.
Females weigh between 60-70 pounds.

He must be soooo hot (referring to summer months)!

No. The Bergamasco is not hot to the way people think they are hot. The coat acts as an insulation to the heat as well as to the cold temperatures. However, I would not recommend running a full coated Bergamasco in 90 degree temperatures.

Does the coat smell?

No, the Bergamasco coat itself does not have a smell. However, once the Bergamasco is in full coat, there is a tendency to have a urine smell from the male or female dogs urinating on the long mats. Occasional spot baths are recommended as needed.

How do you wash the coat?

Like any coat, just bathe the dog using a all natural shampoo using lots and lots of water, rinsing and squeezing the flocks well. It is important to get out all the excess water.

How long does it take the coat to dry?

The Bergamasco coat can take up to 8 hours to dry. Hot, windy days work best for drying the coat or a good strong air dryer.

Is the Bergamasco friendly?

Yes, most bergamascos are very friendly. However, some Bergamascos can be reserved at times with unfamiliar faces and unfamilar dogs.