The temperament of the Bergamasco dog

A Bergamasco is a family dog and he or she will feel that his family is his flock (see history page for more details here). His lifestyle may have
changed from that of guarding and herding sheep but the Bergamasco
is still the same.

A Bergamsco dog does not pick a master as the dog feels in many ways he is equal to man. Due to the dog's intelligence he adapts to different individuals behaviour within the family and acts accordingly.

The breed will never blindly execute a given order and it is impossible to make a robot out of him. Instead he is friendly, affectionate and obedient on a spontaneous level - make him a member of the family and he will be a relaxed and easily trained dog.

They are not aggressive but they do not like strangers invading their territory and ensure they are prevented from stepping into "their world". However when introduced the dog is friendly with anyone. This breed makes for an excellent watch dog, not a guard dog.

A Bergamasco wishes to be a member of your family - no more, no less. It has a special relationship with children harking back from its sheep dog ancestors when looking after lambs. It will be patient and protective, tolerant and attentive, seeking the childrens company and establishing a true friendship with them.

For all those lucky owners that own a Bergamasco they will find they have an excellent breed making them feel loved, protected and safe.

The breed is not for everyone - its temperament, its sensibility and intelligence and its very special appearance have certainly made it a rare dog that is not easy to completely understand.