Miniature American Shepherd vs Bergamasco Sheepdog
Breed Compatibility
74% Compatible
Energy Level
Miniature American Shepherd: Energetic0.8
Bergamasco Sheepdog: Calm0.4
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Miniature American Shepherd: Eager to Please1.0
Bergamasco Sheepdog: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Miniature American Shepherd: Daily Brushing0.8
Bergamasco Sheepdog: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Less Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Miniature American Shepherd5/5
Bergamasco Sheepdog3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Miniature American Shepherd5/5
Bergamasco Sheepdog3/5
Good with Strangers
Miniature American Shepherd3/5
Bergamasco Sheepdog3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Miniature American Shepherd
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
MDR1 Gene: Drug sensitivity issue
PRA: Progressive retinal atrophy
Collie Eye Anomaly: Vision defect
Epilepsy: Neurological condition
Cataracts: Vision clouding concern
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
Pros & Cons Comparison
Miniature American Shepherd
Pros
Highly intelligent and trainable
Excellent family companion
Versatile working ability
Compact size
Strong herding instincts
Cons
High exercise needs
Regular grooming required
Can be vocal
Strong herding instinct may need management
Requires consistent training
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
Miniature American Shepherd Fun Fact
Despite their small size, they retain all the working abilities of their larger Australian Shepherd ancestors!
Bergamasco Sheepdog Fun Fact
Their unique matted coat can take up to five years to fully develop into its characteristic flocked appearance.
Heritage & Purpose
Miniature American Shepherd
Origin:
Developed in California during the 1960s as a smaller version of Australian Shepherds, these dogs were bred specifically for herding smaller livestock and companion work.
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.
Special Considerations
Miniature American Shepherd
Needs regular grooming to maintain coat condition. Requires substantial exercise and mental stimulation. Health testing for MDR1 gene mutation recommended.
Bergamasco Sheepdog
Unique coat requires specific grooming knowledge. Regular exercise essential for mental stimulation. Monitor for common health issues like hip dysplasia.