Bergamasco Sheepdog
The Bergamasco Sheepdog is described by the AKC as independent, intelligent, sociable, a member of the Herding Group, originally from Italy.
Last updated: October 2026 · 5 sources · see sources
| Height | 23.5 inches (male), 22 inches (female) [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 70-84 pounds (male), 57-71 pounds (female) [1] |
| Life expectancy | 13–15+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Independent / Intelligent / Sociable [1] |
| AKC group | Herding Group [1] |
| Origin | Italy [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 183 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
The Bergamasco Sheepdog requires only a moderate amount of exercise every day. Because they bond closely with their owners, this exercise should come in the form of some sort of mutual activity rather than the dog being left alone in the backyard. And while they are generally calm, Bergamascos have a good deal of energy and are happy to join their owners in almost any sort of activity, whether that entails retrieving a ball, going on a brisk walk or hike, or romping together in an open field. [1]
Grooming
The coat of an adult Bergamasco is basically maintenance-free. It's made up of three types of hair, called 'dog,' 'goat,' and 'wool.' Goat and wool hairs don't start to appear until the dog is a year old. When they do, the coat must be ripped into mats, a process that can take a few hours or a few evenings. [1]
Health issues to budget for
Bergamascos are generally a healthy breed. Like all breeds there may be some health issues. Some dogs may be faced with these health challenges in their lives, but the majority of Bergamascos are healthy dogs. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: Hip Evaluation, Elbow Evaluation, Degenerative Myelopathy (Common Variant) (DM) - DNA Test. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a large dog (median $640) | $308 – $1,224 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, large dog | $698 – $1,580 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, large dog | $541 – $3,903 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC first recognized the Bergamasco Sheepdog in 2015. [1]
- It ranked No. 183 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list, compared with No. 174 in 2015. [2]
- Its nickname is the “Bergermaschi.” [1]
- The AKC lists Italy as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 3 recommended health screenings for breeding dogs, such as Hip Evaluation, Elbow Evaluation. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ People who want less dog hair at home (AKC shedding 1/5)
Common questions
How long do Bergamasco Sheepdogs live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 13-15 years.
How big does a Bergamasco Sheepdog get?
AKC breed information lists height 23.5 inches (male), 22 inches (female) and weight 70-84 pounds (male), 57-71 pounds (female).
How much are vet bills for a Bergamasco Sheepdog?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For large dogs like the Bergamasco Sheepdog, a typical vet bill runs $308 – $1,224 (median $640). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.