Bergamasco Shepherd Dog
Male: 32-38 kg, Female: 26-32 kg
Male: 58-62 cm, Female: 54-58 cm at the shoulder
13-15 years
Italy (Bergamo region)
About the Bergamasco Shepherd Dog
The Bergamasco Shepherd Dog is a medium-to-large ancient herding breed, instantly recognisable by its extraordinary 'flocked' coat. This coat served as a natural armour against the freezing temperatures and predatory wolves of the Italian Alps. Despite its rugged appearance, the Bergamasco is an exceptionally intelligent and 'thinking' dog, often viewing itself as a partner to its owner rather than a subordinate. They possess a unique ability to assess situations and act independently, a trait honed over centuries of managing livestock in isolation. In a domestic setting, the Bergamasco is a calm and vigilant companion. They are famously patient with children and tend to be protective without being unnecessarily aggressive. Unlike many other herding breeds that can be hyperactive, the Bergamasco has a 'low-idle' setting indoors, preferring to observe their surroundings quietly until it is time to work or play. Their loyalty is absolute, and they form profound bonds with their entire family unit, often acting as a gentle guardian of the home.
Breed Standard
Key characteristics from the breed standard
In the ring, the Bergamasco should exude a rustic, functional elegance. The movement is a highlight—an effortless, elastic trot that covers ground efficiently, reflecting their mountain heritage. The structure must be powerful and well-proportioned, appearing slightly longer than tall. The defining feature is the coat; judges look for correctly formed 'flocks' that are flat and wide, starting from the spine and falling down the sides.
Bred For
Herding and guarding sheep and cattle in the harsh terrain of the Italian Alps.
Temperament
Patient, intelligent, observant, courageous, and deeply devoted to its family with a calm and balanced disposition.
Health Conditions Reported in the Breed
While generally a very robust and healthy breed, they can be predisposed to , , and (). Their deep-chested conformation also makes them susceptible to (), or .
Exercise Needs
Moderate to High.
Grooming Needs
Unique and complex during development. The coat must be 'organized' into flocks (mats) between ages 1 and 3. Once established, they require surprisingly little grooming — they should never be brushed and only bathed a few times a year.
Living Suitability
Suited to homes with a medium-to-large yard. While they are calm indoors, their size and heritage make them ill-suited for small apartments unless very high levels of daily outdoor exercise are provided.
Good with Kids
Excellent; known for being extremely patient and gentle with children of all ages.
Good with Other Pets
Generally good with other dogs and pets if socialised early; they tend to be dominant but not aggressive.
Trainability
Highly intelligent but independent; they respond best to positive reinforcement and a firm, consistent leader who respects their intelligence.
Coat & Colours
A unique 'felted' coat consisting of three types of hair: a dense oily undercoat, long 'goat hair', and a woolly topcoat that weave together to form flat flocks.. Grey of all shades (from light to dark), including solid grey or grey with black patches; solid black is also permitted.
Exercise needs vary by age, fitness, health, weather and individual temperament. Consult your veterinarian for an exercise plan appropriate for your dog.
Things to Consider
Every breed has its quirks — here's what to know
The Bergamasco is more likely to experience certain challenges that owners should prepare for. The coat, while low-maintenance once mature, requires a 'ripping' process between 1-3 years of age to form the flocks; if not done correctly, the coat can become a solid, uncomfortable mat. Because of their thick coat, they are more likely to be sensitive to heat, so climate control in Australian summers is vital. They can be predisposed to Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (bloat); feeding smaller, frequent meals and avoiding exercise around feeding times can help manage this risk. Like many large breeds, they are more likely to develop hip and elbow dysplasia, so maintaining a lean weight is essential for joint health. Their independent nature means they may occasionally 'disagree' with a command if they feel they have a better idea—this is a sign of intelligence that should be met with patient, consistent training. Finally, their long facial hair can trap food and debris, so the 'beard' area may need occasional cleaning to prevent odours.
Feeding Guide for Your Bergamasco Shepherd Dog
Healthy Weight
26-38 kg
Daily Feeding Amount (general starting estimate)
650-950 grams
For an adult Bergamasco, a fresh raw diet should be fed at approximately 2.5% of their ideal body weight. For a typical 32kg adult, this equates to 800g per day, divided into two meals.
Feeding quantities are general starting estimates only. Individual needs vary with body condition, weight trends, age, health and activity. Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition — consult a veterinarian for individualised dietary guidance.
Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition. Seek veterinary or qualified canine nutrition guidance for individualised dietary advice. Raw feeding, specific proteins or fresh foods should not be presented as preventing, treating or managing breed health conditions without veterinary diagnosis and supervision.
Majestik's Recommended Feeding Approach
Breed Diet Notes
A high-quality, protein-rich diet focusing on lean muscle meats and healthy fats to support their large frame and energy needs. They typically thrive on a fresh, raw diet that mimics their ancestral intake.
A varied protein rotation is ideal, utilizing Australian staples like Kangaroo (lean protein), Beef (rich in iron), and Lamb (high in essential fatty acids). Majestik's Kangaroo and Beef blends are excellent choices. Include raw meaty bones like turkey necks for dental health and organ meats (liver and kidney) for essential vitamins. Given their Alpine heritage, they digest fats well, but portions should be monitored to prevent obesity.
These are general breed-level notes only. The appropriate food and serving amount depend on the individual dog's age, health, body condition, activity and tolerance.
Majestik Recommendation
Majestik BARF meals follow our practical 70/10/10/10 approach: approximately 70% quality meat and protein ingredients, 10% edible bone, 10% vegetables and 10% offal. This gives customers a convenient fresh-food option without needing to source and portion every ingredient themselves.
Our Beef, Lamb and Roo BARF meals provide convenient fresh-food options, with suitable proteins chosen or rotated according to the individual dog.
Suitable for different needs
- Healthy adult: Majestik adult Beef, Lamb or Roo BARF meal.
- Puppy: Majestik Premium Puppy.
- Senior: Majestik Senior Blend.
- Working or highly active dog: Suitable Majestik adult meal with quantity adjusted to workload and body condition.
- Protein trial: One Majestik protein at a time.
This is a practical starting recommendation for healthy dogs. Individual needs vary with age, health, body condition and activity.
Bergamasco Shepherd Dog Feeding Calculator
Personalised raw and cooked feeding recommendations based on your dog's profile
Ideal — Ribs palpable without excess fat. Visible waist. Abdominal tuck present.
Have a question about your Bergamasco Shepherd Dog? Dog Health AI
Why Majestik?
Fresh, raw pet food made with integrity in South Australia
Australian Made
Made in Two Wells, South Australia
Freshly Prepared
Real meat, organs, bone & wholefood ingredients
No Fillers
No cheap fillers or artificial preservatives
Family Owned
Locally owned and operated
Local Delivery
Delivery across Adelaide & selected areas
Secure Checkout
Secure payment via Shopify checkout
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Breed Records & Facts
Average Litter Size
6-10 puppies
Bergamasco Shepherd Dog Owner Feedback
Real experiences and tips from Bergamasco Shepherd Dog owners
Other Large Breeds
References & Sources
Breed information verified against recognised breed authorities and veterinary evidence.
