Name of Kennel:
Bergamaschi del Bergamontania
What age were you and how did you become involved in the world of Dogs?:
I have always had a strong connection with animals, especially dogs, throughout my life, but my focused involvement began when I discovered the Bergamasco Sheepdog. In 2012, I brought the first Bergamasco to Ireland, marking the beginning of my journey in preservation breeding.
What Breeds of Dogs have you had over the years?
Many rescue mixed breeds, and a German Shepherd were our family dogs when I grew up. My work as a breeder has been dedicated almost entirely to the Bergamasco. I believe in focusing deeply on one breed to truly understand and preserve its character, structure, and purpose.
What Breeds of Dogs have you got now?
I currently have Bergamasco Sheepdogs, continuing a carefully developed line rooted in strong health, temperament, and true breed type.
What would you consider to be your main breed and the one people associate you with?
The Bergamasco Sheepdog is the breed I am fully dedicated to, and the one people associate me with.
What attracted you to this breed?
The Bergamasco is an ancient Italian herding breed — rare, intelligent, and deeply connected to its human. What drew me to the breed was its independent mind, emotional depth, and quiet strength. It is not a typical dog; it is a true partner. Also, the unusual coat is something I love about Bergamaschi. They turn every head with their lovely spirit and unusual appearance, and they are so smart.
What advice would you offer to anyone interested in becoming an owner of the breed?
This is not a breed for everyone. Bergamascos require genuine engagement, connection and interaction. They need to be part of everyday life and do not thrive when left alone for long periods.
I would strongly encourage anyone interested to take the time to understand the breed properly and be ready for a committed, long-term relationship.
Does the breed have any specific requirements by way of exercise & grooming?
Yes — particularly when it comes to coat development.
Bergamascos require a fair amount of coat care during the first two years. This is a critical period where frequent hands-on work is needed to guide the coat as it begins to form its natural flocks. If this stage is neglected, the coat can later become difficult to separate properly.
Owners should be prepared to learn the process from their breeder.
Once the coat is fully developed into flocks, maintenance becomes much lower. It is a self-cleaning coat, but Begamasco should not be left wet for days to prevent mildew. Washing and drying can be time-consuming, but they are not needed very often. No shampoos should be used on a Bergamasco coat; instead, sheep-washing liquids rich in lanolin are suitable.
Bergamasco are also known to “bring the outside in” — grass, twigs, and debris can easily get caught in the coat, so regular cleaning around the home is part of life with the breed.
In terms of exercise, they need space to move, explore, and engage both physically and mentally. They are active but not hyperactive, and they thrive when included in daily life.
Does the breed have any specific health tests that should be done before a Dog or Bitch is used at stud or bred from?
Bergamascos are generally a healthy breed, but the main concerns include hip dysplasia.
All responsible breeding dogs should be tested for:
Hip dysplasia
Elbow dysplasia
In my programme, all breeding dogs are tested.
Health is part of every breeding decision. I believe in looking at the long-term picture — not just one litter — and I provide proof of all testing to puppy homes. Anyone looking for a Bergamasco should ensure they are getting a puppy from fully health-tested parents.
How would you sum up the characteristics of this breed and what type of household would they best be suited to?
The Bergamasco is intelligent, observant, and deeply loyal. They are independent thinkers who form strong emotional bonds with their people. They are calm in the home, playful outdoors, and naturally protective without being aggressive.
Bergamascos are best suited to homes that value connection and are willing to include the dog in daily life. They love children, other animals and develop their individual connection with everyone in their environment. Their emotional connections are deep and loyal. Bergamasci thrive when their affection is returned, but they are not needy.
In terms of the living space – Bergamasco need access to space for exercise, ideally a secure outdoor area, and should not be required to climb stairs excessively as young puppies while their joints are developing. They can also be vocal, so tolerant neighbours are important.
In the right environment, they are exceptional companions — thoughtful, steady, and deeply devoted.
Check out my contact details on the Approved Breeders Tab on this site
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