Spanish Water Dog vs Bergamasco Sheepdog
Breed Compatibility
90% Compatible
Energy Level
Spanish Water Dog: Energetic0.8
Bergamasco Sheepdog: Calm0.4
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Spanish Water Dog: Eager to Please1.0
Bergamasco Sheepdog: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Spanish Water Dog: Specialty/Professional1.0
Bergamasco Sheepdog: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Less Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Spanish Water Dog4/5
Bergamasco Sheepdog3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Spanish Water Dog3/5
Bergamasco Sheepdog3/5
Good with Strangers
Spanish Water Dog3/5
Bergamasco Sheepdog3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Spanish Water Dog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
PRA: Progressive retinal deterioration
CHD: Congenital heart defects possible
Allergies: Environmental sensitivities
Hypothyroidism: Thyroid function issues
Epilepsy: Neurological disorder risk
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
Spanish Water Dog
Pros
Highly trainable
Excellent swimming ability
Low shedding coat
Versatile working dog
Cons
High grooming maintenance
Requires extensive exercise
Can be reserved with strangers
Strong herding instincts
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
Spanish Water Dog Fun Fact
Their distinctive curly coat naturally forms cords if left ungroomed, creating a unique appearance similar to dreadlocks.
Bergamasco Sheepdog Fun Fact
Their unique matted coat can take up to five years to fully develop into its characteristic flocked appearance.
Heritage & Purpose
Spanish Water Dog
Origin:
Developed along Spain's coastal regions during the Middle Ages, these dogs excelled in herding livestock and retrieving from water, serving as versatile working companions.
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
Spanish Water Dog
Professional grooming needed regularly. Requires extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation. Early socialization important for balanced temperament.
Bergamasco Sheepdog
Unique coat requires specific grooming knowledge. Regular exercise essential for mental stimulation. Monitor for common health issues like hip dysplasia.
Shedding
InfrequentShedding
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