Bergamasco Sheepdog vs Australian Shepherd
Breed Compatibility
84% Compatible
Energy Level
Bergamasco Sheepdog: Calm0.4
Australian Shepherd: Energetic0.8
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Bergamasco Sheepdog: Agreeable0.6
Australian Shepherd: Eager to Please1.0
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Bergamasco Sheepdog: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Australian Shepherd: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Bergamasco Sheepdog3/5
Australian Shepherd5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Bergamasco Sheepdog3/5
Australian Shepherd3/5
Good with Strangers
Bergamasco Sheepdog3/5
Australian Shepherd3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Bergamasco Sheepdog
Hip dysplasia: Joint malformation
Eye problems: Progressive conditions
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Elbow dysplasia: Joint issues
Allergies: Skin sensitivities
Dental issues: Periodontal disease
Australian Shepherd
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
MDR1 Gene: Drug sensitivity issue
CEA: Hereditary eye condition
Epilepsy: Neurological disorder
Cataracts: Vision impairment risk
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development
Pros & Cons Comparison
Bergamasco Sheepdog
Pros
Excellent guardian instincts
Low-shedding coat
Intelligent and trainable
Good with families
Cons
Complex grooming needs
Strong-willed nature
Requires experienced owner
Needs regular exercise
Australian Shepherd
Pros
Highly intelligent
Excellent work ethic
Versatile abilities
Strong protective instincts
Athletic and agile
Cons
High exercise needs
Intense herding instinct
Heavy shedding
Can be too energetic
Requires constant mental stimulation
Bergamasco Sheepdog Fun Fact
Their unique matted coat can take up to five years to fully develop into its characteristic flocked appearance.
Australian Shepherd Fun Fact
Australian Shepherds, despite their name, were actually developed in the western United States, not Australia!
Heritage & Purpose
Bergamasco Sheepdog
Origin:
Dating back to ancient Persia, these dogs served as guardians and herders in the Italian Alps, particularly in the Bergamo region, protecting sheep from predators.
Australian Shepherd
Origin:
Developed in western United States during the 1800s, these dogs excelled in herding livestock across challenging terrain. Their versatile skills and keen intelligence made them invaluable to ranchers.
Special Considerations
Bergamasco Sheepdog
Unique coat requires specific grooming knowledge. Regular exercise essential for mental stimulation. Monitor for common health issues like hip dysplasia.
Australian Shepherd
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation. Health testing for MDR1 gene mutation recommended.
Shedding
InfrequentShedding
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