Bergamascos are calm, watchful herding dogs that may appear aloof with strangers but should not be aggressive without cause; their heavy, flocked coat often hangs over the eyes, so sudden side or rear approaches can startle them—greet from the front and move predictably. As independent problem-solvers, they may try to manage movement in busy spaces; a quiet area and owner in view can reduce stress. Their coat helps insulate in cold and can keep them reasonably cool in warm weather, but any dog can overheat in hot, humid, or poorly ventilated settings; if a caller reports unrelenting heavy panting, drooling, confusion, collapse, or seizures, instruct them this is an emergency and to proceed to the nearest ER now.
Front desk script: Thanks for letting us know your dog is a Bergamasco. They can be reserved with new people, so we’ll approach slowly from the front and keep you nearby; we can also seat you in a quieter area if available. If you notice nonstop heavy panting, drooling, confusion, collapse, or seizures—especially after heat or exertion—this is an emergency; please go to the nearest emergency clinic now and call us on the way.
Bergamasco Sheepdogs are generally robust but have a few breed-linked priorities: orthopedic screening for hip and elbow dysplasia is recommended by the AKC parent-club; DNA testing for degenerative myelopathy (DM) is also advised to identify carriers; their large, deep‑chested build means they can be susceptible to life‑threatening gastric dilatation–volvulus (bloat); and the heavy, flocked coat can trap moisture/debris, predisposing to skin infections or hot spots if poorly maintained. Escalate immediately if an owner reports unproductive retching, a tight/bloated abdomen, restlessness, or collapse, as these can indicate bloat.
Front desk script: For Bergamascos, we note any hip/elbow certifications and whether a DM (degenerative myelopathy) DNA test is on file—please ask owners to bring those records. If a caller reports gagging/retching without vomit and a swollen, tight belly, advise: “This may be bloat and is an emergency—go to the nearest emergency hospital now.” If they mention foul odor or oozing sores hidden under coat mats, offer a same‑day appointment for a skin check.
The Bergamasco Sheepdog is a smart, medium‑large herding breed with a unique felted “flock” coat. Expect moderate daily exercise and early socialization. Coat care is simpler than it looks: around 1 year of age the coat is separated into flocks once, then no routine brushing is needed; plan only occasional baths (about 1–3 per year) and extra drying time, plus regular nail, ear, and dental care. The breed is generally healthy with an average lifespan around 13–15 years; when buying a puppy, ask breeders for OFA hip results and a recent veterinary ophthalmologist eye exam on the parents. Seek immediate emergency care if you ever see unproductive retching, a suddenly tight/bloated abdomen, collapse, or extreme restlessness, as these can indicate life‑threatening bloat (GDV).
Front desk script: Bergamascos need moderate daily activity and routine wellness visits. Their coat is separated into flocks once at about a year old; after that, no brushing is needed—just occasional baths and regular nail/ear/teeth care. If an owner reports non‑productive retching or a suddenly swollen, painful belly, advise: “This could be an emergency (possible bloat). Please go to the nearest ER now and call us on the way.”
Front-desk commonly fields Bergamasco Sheepdog calls for coat/skin concerns related to their dense, flocked hair (odor after bathing, slow drying, matting/irritation), ear problems (head-shaking, odor, discharge), and bad breath/dental cleaning estimates. Owners also book wellness/parasite updates, nail/coat maintenance, and mobility/lameness checks or breeder-requested screenings (e.g., OFA hip x‑rays and CAER eye exams). Triage same-day for persistent ear discomfort or skin sores from mats. Escalate immediately to emergency if the caller reports non‑productive retching with a tight, distended abdomen (possible life‑threatening bloat/GDV in large, deep‑chested dogs) or heat stress signs such as collapse, confusion, or seizures.
Front desk script: Thank you for calling—let me get a few quick details about what you’re seeing and when it started. For ear odor/head‑shaking, skin irritation from mats, or new limping, we recommend a same‑day exam; I can reserve that now. If you are seeing non‑productive retching with a swollen belly or heat distress (collapse, confusion, seizures), please proceed to the nearest emergency hospital immediately and let us know which ER you’re heading to so we can share records. For OFA hip x‑rays or a CAER eye exam, I can schedule those and we’ll review any scheduling/prep requirements with you.
Bergamasco Sheepdogs have a unique three-layer coat that forms flat, felted “flocks” beginning around 8–12 months; owners typically do a one-time hand separation when felting starts, then check weekly for about 6 months so flocks don’t rejoin, after which brushing is minimal and baths are only needed a few times per year. Dense flocks and hairy, pendulous ears can trap moisture and reduce airflow, so allow extra time for bathing/drying and advise thorough drying; watch for ear odor/discharge, head shaking, or moist, weeping skin under flocks—these warrant a same-day exam. Plan longer adolescent visits (8–14 months) for coat checks and refer to groomers experienced with flocked/corded coats. In hot/humid weather, thick coats increase heat-stress risk; if heavy, unrelenting panting, collapse, or confusion occur, treat as an emergency and direct the client to immediate care.
Front desk script: This breed’s coat forms flat “flocks” as a teenager; around 8–12 months we suggest a longer visit or referral to a groomer familiar with flocked coats for the one-time separation and follow-up checks. After any bath or swim, drying takes time—if you notice ear odor/discharge, head shaking, or moist, weeping skin under the coat, we’ll schedule a same-day exam. If your dog shows severe heat signs like heavy, unrelenting panting, collapse, or confusion, that’s an emergency—head to the nearest ER and call us on the way.
Bergamasco Sheepdogs are large herding dogs with a corded (“flocked”) coat that can trap moisture/debris and obscure skin—ask owners if the coat is fully dry, if there’s odor, sores, or tight mats, and route skin/coat concerns to an extended exam slot; request prior records (OFA/PennHIP hips/elbows, any degenerative myelopathy DNA results, eye checks) and attach to the chart; screen for mobility issues (new limping, reluctance to jump/climb) and book as lameness/orthopedic if present; for routine care/new patients, route to a large-breed wellness slot and note extra time if heavy cords may limit skin access; set expectations that the doctor may recommend follow-up rechecks or imaging based on exam findings; if the caller reports a distended abdomen with unproductive retching, collapse/weakness, or trouble breathing, instruct immediate emergency care and do not delay scheduling.
Front desk script: Thanks for calling about your Bergamasco Sheepdog. Because their coat forms cords that can hide skin issues, is the coat fully dry today, and are you noticing any odor, sores, or tight mats? For mobility, is your dog bearing weight and comfortable moving around, or is the limping sudden and severe? If you’re seeing a swollen belly with unproductive retching, collapse/weakness, or trouble breathing, this is an emergency—please proceed to the nearest 24/7 ER now; I can text you the address while you go.
Lifecycle touchpoints for Bergamasco Sheepdogs: Puppies (to ~6–9 months) typically need visits every 3–4 weeks through 16–20 weeks for core vaccines, deworming, microchip, socialization counseling, and year‑round preventives; owners often ask about house‑training and coat care timing. Young adults (to ~3–4 years) shift to wellness every 6–12 months with parasite prevention, behavior reinforcement, and screening discussions (e.g., orthopedic/ophthalmic checks based on breed size). Mature adults and seniors (last 25% of expected lifespan) benefit from at least semiannual exams and baseline labs (CBC/chem/urinalysis) every 6–12 months, with added focus on mobility, dental health, weight, and cognition. Red‑flag triage for large, deep‑chested breeds: sudden nonproductive retching, rapid abdominal distention, collapse (possible GDV), or heatstroke signs (excessive panting/drooling, confusion, seizures) — advise immediate ER care.
Front desk script: For a Bergamasco puppy, we’ll book vaccine and parasite visits every 3–4 weeks until about 16–20 weeks, then move to regular wellness. As an adult, plan checkups every 6–12 months with year‑round preventives; as a senior, we recommend visits at least every 6 months with routine labs. If you report nonproductive retching with a tight, swollen belly, collapse, or heat‑related distress, this is an emergency—go to the nearest ER now and call us on the way.
For Bergamasco Sheepdogs, set expectations around their flocked coat and handling time: confirm the owner’s coat‑management routine (how flocks are separated and drying time after baths), ask that the dog arrive clean and fully dry, and note that exams may take longer for thorough skin checks. Screen gently for mobility changes typical of large breeds (difficulty rising, reluctance to jump, stiffness after activity) and any recent gastrointestinal signs after meals. Document heat tolerance under a heavy coat and any owner‑noticed hotspots or odor. If an owner reports unproductive retching, a tight/swollen belly, pale gums, sudden weakness, or collapse, clearly state this is an emergency and direct them to the nearest 24‑hour veterinary ER immediately.
Front desk script: “Because Bergamascos have a flocked coat, can you share how you separate and maintain the flocks and how long drying takes after baths? For today’s visit, please bring them clean and fully dry so we can examine the skin comfortably.” “Have you noticed any new limping, trouble rising, or reluctance to jump? I can book a longer slot to accommodate the coat if needed.” “If you ever see unproductive retching with a tight, swollen belly or sudden collapse, this is an emergency—please go to the nearest 24‑hour ER right away.”
For Bergamasco Sheepdogs, keep preventive care focused on: (1) orthopedic screening—confirm or schedule OFA hip/elbow imaging (prelims can be done before 24 months; final certifications require ≥24 months); (2) eyes—book an annual CAER exam with a board‑certified ophthalmologist (certification valid 12 months), especially for breeding dogs; (3) ears/skin under heavy cords—pendulous, hairy ears trap moisture/debris, so schedule prompt checks for head‑shaking, odor, pain, or swelling. Escalate urgently for head tilt, loss of balance, or sudden vision change; advise the client that these signs need same‑day care. Capture any prior OFA/CAER or DNA (e.g., DM) results in the chart and offer coordination if testing is due.
Front desk script: Because this breed has specific screening recommendations, can we add hip/elbow OFA imaging and a yearly eye (CAER) exam to your wellness plan, or do you already have recent results we can upload? If you notice head‑shaking, ear odor/pain, or any head tilt or balance changes, we’ll see your dog today. Are you planning to breed? We can also coordinate the parent‑club DNA test (DM) and specialist referrals.
Calm, thoughtful herding dog; typically loyal and protective without being aggressive, but often reserved with strangers. Use slow, low-stress greetings and allow owner presence; positive, patient handling works best. The hallmark flocked coat (flat felted mats) can slow exams and obscure venipuncture sites—let the medical team know if the coat is wet or if any areas are sensitive. Lobby behavior is usually steady, with moderate exercise needs and low arousal. As with other medium/large deep‑chested dogs, be alert for bloat/GDV red flags (sudden non‑productive retching, tight/distended abdomen, restlessness/collapse)—if reported, direct the client to immediate emergency care.
Front desk script: “Bergamascos are usually calm and people‑focused but a bit reserved with new folks, so we’ll greet slowly and you’re welcome to stay to comfort them. Their flocked coat can make exams or blood draws take a few extra minutes—please tell us if the coat is wet or any spots are tender. If you ever see sudden retching without vomit or a tight, swollen belly, please come in immediately or go to the nearest emergency hospital.”
Bergamasco Sheepdogs are rare, medium–large herding dogs with a unique triple coat that mats into broad “flocks”; puppies need the coat hand‑separated as it matures and adults are typically bathed only a few times per year, with extended drying time expected. For intake/placement, assess current coat condition (moist mats, odor, skin irritation), mobility, and temperament, and request any prior OFA/CHIC hip/eye/cardiac screening records; schedule a timely baseline veterinary exam post‑adoption. Educate adopters that this observant guardian/herding breed needs consistent exercise and heat‑management plans in warm climates. Urgent red flags to brief adopters on include signs of heat stress (excessive panting, weakness/collapse, vomiting/diarrhea) and possible bloat/GDV seen in large or deep‑chested dogs (restlessness, non‑productive retching, abdominal distention)—these require immediate emergency care.
Front desk script: This breed’s coat is meant to form wide, flat flocks—routine clipping/brushing like a typical long coat is not standard; if you notice strong odor, moist mats, or skin redness, let us know so we can book a vet/groom consult. Please share any OFA/CHIC health records you have, and we can schedule a post‑adoption wellness exam. If your dog shows heavy panting with weakness/collapse or repeated unproductive retching with a tight belly, go to the nearest emergency vet immediately and call us on the way.
Calm, intelligent herding dog that bonds closely with its person; typically easygoing but protective and often wary with unfamiliar people. For check‑in and lobby flow, avoid crowded greetings, keep distance from pushy dogs, and let the owner lead the dog—direct to a quieter room if the lobby is busy. Approach slowly from the front (vision may be partly obscured by coat), speak softly, and use treats and brief cues; avoid hugging or heavy handling. If body language escalates (hard stare, stiff posture, growling, repeated lunging), move the dog to a quiet space and alert clinical staff immediately.
Front desk script: “Bergamascos are usually calm but can be cautious with new people. We’ll give you space from other pets and let you lead them to a quieter room so our team can approach slowly with treats. If you notice hard staring, stiff posture, growling, or repeated lunging, please tell us right away so a technician can assist.”
For Bergamasco Sheepdogs, trigger immediate emergency escalation if you hear any of the following: unproductive retching with a tight or rapidly enlarging abdomen, restlessness or drooling (possible GDV/bloat); labored or noisy breathing, blue/gray or very pale gums, collapse/marked weakness; seizures lasting >5 minutes or more than one seizure within 24 hours; suspected toxin exposure (e.g., chocolate, grapes/raisins, xylitol, human medications); or heat-stress signs during warm weather/exertion such as heavy panting, thick drool, disorientation, vomiting/diarrhea, or collapse. Same-day escalation if there is repeated vomiting/diarrhea, straining with little/no urine or stool, sudden eye injury, or significant unexplained pain.
Front desk script: Based on what you’re describing, this could be life-threatening. Please bring your Bergamasco Sheepdog to our clinic or the nearest emergency hospital now—do not wait. If a toxin may have been ingested, call ASPCA Animal Poison Control at 888-426-4435 while en route so they can coordinate with our team. If you cannot safely transport your pet, proceed to the closest veterinary ER immediately.