Bergamasco

The Bergamasco is a native of Italy, specifically in the Italian Alps near Bergamo. It was originally bred as a herding and guarding dog because of its exceptional intelligence and independent nature. However, the Bergamasco breed can be traced back seven thousand years in the Middle East, now believed to be somewhere between Iran and Iraq. The ancestors of the Bergamasco arrived in Italy in the middle of migratory populations, some spreading over the borders of the Alps.

This dog breed was once in danger of becoming extinct during World War II when the need for wool was driven low. Thus, shepherds and dogs found themselves unemployed. Dr Maria Andreoli, an Italian breeder, saved the breed in the early 1960s when she re-established the consistency and homogeneity to the Bergamasco Breed.

Today, the Bergamasco standard is upheld by enthusiasts in the United Kingdom, Sweden, Finland, United States, Canada, and other countries.

• Senior and less active: up to 1,500 calories daily
• Typical adult: up to 1,700 calories daily
• Physically active/working dog: up to 1,900 calories daily

When you own a Bergamasco dog or any dog breed for that matter, full commitment is involved. This means you are ready to care for it in its lifetime, which includes paying for its needs. To start, a Bergamasco puppy will cost £700 to £1,000 for a well-bred pedigree. Pet insurance will depend on the coverage (basic cover is £30 a month; lifetime policy is £80 a month). When it comes to food, be prepared to shell out £40–£50 a month.

Regular health checks, vaccinations, boosters, spaying/neutering, and other basic vet procedures will quickly cost you around £1,000 a year. However, this estimate does not include special procedures to treat other medical conditions, so consult a veterinarian so you can get a quote and to check if insurance covers it. On top of this, you might want to set aside budget for dog supplies and equipment such as leads, toys, collars, and beds.