Bergamasco Standards
- 22-24"
- 57-84 lbs
- medium-sized herder
- soft, thin, hanging ears
- full length, long tail
- coat weaves together to form mats or flocks
- black
- gray
History of the Bergamasco
The Bergamasco is an ancient breed of dog from northern Italy. Their name is taken from Bergamo, near Milan, where the surrounding mountains are their homeland. It is believed their ancestors are from Asia, brought by the Phoenician traders in pre-Roman times. French experts say the Briard is an ancestor, while the Italians insist it is the Bergamasco that is the Briard’s ancestor. Geographically it would make sense that these dogs would first come to Italy, which would make them the ancestor, not only to the Briard, but to other European herders. After WWII their numbers had fallen dramatically, but dedicated breeders persevered the bloodline and today the Bergamasco is slowly becoming known worldwide.
Related Breeds: