IF YOU ARE CONSIDERING A BERGAMASCO PUPPY...
The Bergamasco is not the breed for everyone. Please consider this in your search for a puppy:
1. The Bergamasco is meant to maintain it's natural coat. This breed should not be shaved down or live in a very hot and humid climate.
2. Bergamascos may bring in sticks, leaves, mud etc. from outside. They are clean dogs but will sometimes act as velcro to these objects, bringing them in the home.
3. As adults they don't always get along with adult dogs they don't know, but they tend to be wonderful with puppies.
4. They don't make good dogs for water sports or swimming due to the weight of the coat and need to keep the coat from being wet too often.
5. Although the coat is hypoallergenic, pollen, dander and other environmental allergens may still adhere to the coat causing allergies in some.
6. They do not do well without human companionship. They are not dogs that should live outdoors or without a family atmosphere.
7. This is a herding breed. Caution should always be taken with other animals and smaller children.
IF YOU ARE STILL INTERESTED...
Take your time to find a Bergamasco breeder who shares the values you consider important.
WHAT DOES RESPONSIBLE BREEDING MEAN?
GUIDELINES WHEN SEARCHING FOR A BREEDER
DO THEY....
1. Take the time to answer your questions about their breeding practices and the breed.
2. Require that puppies are picked up at their home and not shipped out to someone they have not met before.
3. Health test their dogs. The only recommended testing for this breed at this time is Penn Hip testing. Many of our dogs are also genetically tested, however no genetic defects (which are testable are noted).
4. Provide a written contract with health guarantee.
5. Allow visits once the puppies are of age.
6. Provide all the necessary paperwork and AKC registration for puppies.
7. Have all puppies dewormed and vet checked prior to going to their families and immunized for age according to breeder's protocol.
8. Keep puppies until 10 weeks of age or more.
9. Allow the parents to be seen on site if available.
10. Provide ongoing support, advice and guidance with the coat and care of the puppy.
11. Refrain from breeding their females under 22 months old.
12. Provide a healthy and social atmosphere for growing puppies.