Saturday November 26, 2016

I watched the National Dog Show out of Philadelphia and fell in love. I had seen the Bergamasco Shepherd on a commercial (Super Bowl I think) - but didn't know its breed until last night. From what they said about the dog, it had a spinal injury then rescued but runaway into the woods for 9 days, was rescued again, surgery was performed, and he went on to be a champion.

The Bergamasco is a muscular, heavy-boned herding dog with a large head and a thick tail that hangs down to the hock and curves slightly upward at the end. The entire dog is covered with an abundant coat that forms mats. The Bergamasco is compact in profile but is just slightly longer than tall. The Bergamasco's characteristic feature is its unique coat, made up of three types of hair. The coat forms flocks (strands of hair weaved together creating flat layers of felted hair) or loose mats, which cover the dog's body and legs, and protect the dog from weather and predators. The hair on the head is typically long and hangs over the eyes. The Bergamasco is an alert, observant and patient dog breed with good self-control and balance. This breed is suited even as a guard and companion dog. The Bergamasco establishes close bond with his owner. Read more ... -- Bergamascousa Sheepdog Club of America