Bergamasco vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison | Petzlover

Bergamasco vs Atlas Terrier - Breed ComparisonAtlas Terrier is originated from United States but Bergamasco is originated from Italy. Atlas Terrier may grow 34 cm / 13 inches shorter than Bergamasco. Atlas Terrier may weigh 32 kg / 70 pounds lesser than Bergamasco. Both Atlas Terrier and Bergamasco has almost same life span. Both Atlas Terrier and Bergamasco has almost same litter size. Both Atlas Terrier and Bergamasco requires Moderate Maintenance.

Basic Information

Group:
Terrier dog
Herding dogs
undefined
United States
Italy
Height Male:
23 - 28 cm
9 - 12 inches
58 - 62 cm
22 - 25 inches
Height Female:
23 - 28 cm
9 - 12 inches
54 - 58 cm
21 - 23 inches
Weight Male:
2 - 6 kg
4 - 14 pounds
32 - 38 kg
70 - 84 pounds
Weight Female:
2 - 5 kg
4 - 12 pounds
26 - 38 kg
57 - 84 pounds
Life Span:
11 - 17 Years
13 - 15 Years
Litter Size:
4 - 8
6 - 10
Size:
Medium
Medium
Other Names:
None
Bergamasco Shepherd Dog, Cane da pastore Bergamasco
Colors Available:
Several - Brindle, Merle
Grey, sometimes black
Coat:
Short and dense
Coarse, long shaggy dreadlocks
Shedding:
Moderate
Minimal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Sweet
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Territorial
Grooming:
Moderate Maintenance
Moderate Maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
Yes
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

History

atlas terrierThe Atlas Terrier is a rare dog. He was developed in the USA and is a blend of Jack Russell Terriers, Rat Terriers, Border Terriers and Patterdale Terriers. It was in 1990 that Lauren Wolfe developed a breed similar to the Jack Russell, but with a solid colour, and in fact she had two dogs that were solid red in colour. This was as a result of a cross between a Jack Russell Terrier and a Border Terrier.

With the crossing of different terriers, the foundation for the Atlas Terrier was formed. Lauren Wolfe named the breed ‘Atlas Terrier’ because many terriers from various parts of the world were used to develop this specific breed. It was in 2001 that the Atlas Terrier Association was founded.

bergamascoThe Bergamasco comes from northern Italy. This medium sized sheepdog is of ancient origin. Known as an Italian sheep herding breed, his name actually comes from the town where he comes from - Bergamo.

It was after World War II that there was danger that this breed would disappear as the need for herding and shepherding was diminishing. An Italian breeder, however, Dr. Maria Andreoli, stepped in to save the breed.

It was in 2015 that the American Kennel Club also changed the breed’s status from Miscellaneous to the Herding Group.

Description

A Feisty, Fun Breed

atlas terrier puppy - descriptionAtlas Terrier dogs are a small to medium sized dog but with a strong personality. With their two coat varieties – smooth and wire – and coming directly from the Jack Russell Terrier, this feisty dog suits those who want a low maintenance, fun breed who will join them on their walks or jogs. These dogs are brave and loyal and will double as a watch dog and family pet.The breed is accepted for registry and it is classified under the Terrier dog category.

Different Sizes

There are 3 sizes of Atlas Terrier – toy, miniature, and standard. The toy variety is 23 to 28 cm tall at the shoulder and weighs 2.7 to 5.4 kg. All three varieties are the same except for height and weight.

The Coat - Smooth or Wavy?

The coat of this dog is thick and may come in a variety of colours such as brindle or merle. The Atlas Terrier is also found in solid colours and sometimes you will find that they have white markings on the face, feet or chest. Most times the tail of the Atlas Terrier is docked, but if not, the tail curls over the back. The ears of the Atlas Terrier are V-shaped and they fold forward.

A Rastafarian Look

bergamasco puppy - descriptionThis medium sized sheepdog stands 54 – 62cm in height and weighs up to 38 kg as an adult. It is his coat which draws the most attention. It is of a coarse texture and actually greasy to the touch. It actually forms into strands or almost like dreadlocks from the top of the body, so that people agree he is one of shaggiest dog breeds there are.

From age 1 on the coat starts to become woolly, and then the flocks start to form. As these clumps of hair appear, it will become necessary to separate them into smaller cords by hand to ensure attractive formation Brushing isn’t necessary but a big toothed comb can keep their hair ‘groomed’.

The colour of the coat is solid grey with patches of shades of grey and sometimes black. His dense, heavy coat makes it that he is suited to cooler climates. Because he is a herding dog, he wouldn’t do well in an apartment but would suit a home with a large garden.

Intelligent and Playful

He is intelligent and social but will need firm handling as he is a boisterous dog. He has a muscular yet compact body with a large head, long tail, high-set semi-drooping ears and large, gentle looking brown eyes. Although not instinctively aggressive, he makes an excellent watch dog with strong protective instincts to protect his human family.

He views new people into his circle with suspicion and wariness. He is good with kids and pets in the home and is playful and energetic.

Characteristics

atlas terrier dog - characteristicsAtlas Terriers most certainly have a bit of the Jack Russell in them and these dogs are social, outgoing, mischievous and affectionate. They’re just like your regular naughty child and having one of them in your home will mean energy and lots of fun and games.

This is a highly social breed and he won’t like to be left alone every day. Just like a human child, he will need to be stimulated to ward off boredom and to prevent him from becoming destructive.

Learning Abilities

The Atlas Terrier just loves games and if you’re ready for a game, he will be more than ready to take part. He is intelligent and will therefore responds well to training and socialization. When properly socialized, Atlas Terriers get along well with children, and because they’re not an aggressive breed, if they’re properly trained and socialized they will get along with other pets too. Atlas Terriers make excellent pets, but he is a strong willed dog and will require an owner who is firm, but fair.

bergamasco dog - characteristicsThis is a working dog so they are naturally alert. He is also intelligent and independent and this independence is seen with training as he doesn’t take easily to following instructions, becoming stubborn. You’ll certainly want to have your Bergamasco socialized and trained as he can be a boisterous dog, bounding with energy.

This is a dog that will need to be kept busy and provided with plenty of activities so that he remains happy, playful and relaxed.

Lively and intelligent, these dogs also form strong bonds with their owners and get on well with the children in the home. He will take well to country life as opposed to living in the city.

Health Problems

atlas terrier puppies - health problemsThe selective breeding program of Atlas Terriers has meant that this is a robust, spunky breed free of any major health concerns. While they are a low maintenance breed with longevity on their side, you still have to be a responsible pet owner and see that your Atlas Terrier puppy gets all those must have injections.

Vaccinating your Atlas Terrier Puppy

Tiny puppies are susceptible to infectious diseases and will have to be vaccinated against them from 8 weeks on and then also get an annual booster. The diseases to be vaccinated against include hepatitis, distemper, parvovirus, coronavirus, eptospirosis and parainfluenza. Vaccinations must be kept up to date and it is mandatory for your puppy to be vaccinated against rabies.

bergamasco puppies - health problemsYour Bergamasco can live to be 13 to 15 years of age and he is considered to be a healthy breed. Nonetheless you want to be aware of health issues that are common to this breed

he is vulnerable to heat. He can die of heat exhaustion quicker than other breeds

keep an eye on him for hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy and skin allergies

Caring The Pet

atlas terrier dogs - caringAs a medium shedder, the Atlas Terrier will require some grooming. Grooming is easy and a brush twice a week with a rubber-bristled brush will remove those loose hairs and give his coat a sheen.

Feeding the Puppy

Always make sure you’re feeding your tiny puppy the right quantities of a food type. Always feed your puppy food which is appropriate to his age. Your 8 week old puppy will require 4 meals a day. A highly active breed such as the Atlas Terrier will require more protein for energy.

Speak to your veterinarian about the perfect diet for your puppy and about wet- or dry foods. There is the choice of feeding your puppy commercial dog food or your own home-prepared meals, but then you want to be sure that your puppy is getting the right balance of minerals and vitamins.

Once your Atlas Terrier is about a year of age, he can go onto one meal a day or a lighter meal in the morning and the evening. Remember to ensure that there is always clean, cool water available for your puppy.

Grooming

bergamasco dogs - caringThe Bergamasco isn’t a shedder but his coat will need to be combed once a week just to keep it in order. You don’t want to bath him too often, especially during the Winter as his coat takes a long time to dry. It isn’t recommended to shave a Bergamasco as the coat regulates the dogs temperature – keeping him warm and cold as the weather demands.

Foods

They thrive on a blend of kibble (dry) mixed with raw and-or moist food once or twice a day. Remember to include quality chicken, turkey, etc. mixed with some vegetables and rice into your dog’s diet. Ensure a constant supply of fresh water in an easily-cleanable bowl.

Exercise

Balls and ropes are important for building muscle strength and burning energy. Remember your Bergamasco is a working breed and will need plenty of games and exercise.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Bergamasco vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  2. Bergamasco vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  3. Bergamasco vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  4. Bergamasco vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  5. Bergamasco vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  6. Bergamasco vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  7. Bergamasco vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  8. Bergamasco vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  9. Bergamasco vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  10. Bergamasco vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  11. Bergamasco vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  12. Bergamasco vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  13. Bergamasco vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  14. Bergamasco vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  15. Bergamasco vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  16. Bergamasco vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  17. Bergamasco vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  18. Bergamasco vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  19. Bergamasco vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  20. Bergamasco vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  21. Bergamasco vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  22. Bergamasco vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  23. Bergamasco vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  24. Bergamasco vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  25. Bergamasco vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  26. Atlas Terrier vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  27. Atlas Terrier vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  28. Atlas Terrier vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  29. Atlas Terrier vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  30. Atlas Terrier vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. Atlas Terrier vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  32. Atlas Terrier vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  33. Atlas Terrier vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. Atlas Terrier vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. Atlas Terrier vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. Atlas Terrier vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. Atlas Terrier vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. Atlas Terrier vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. Atlas Terrier vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. Atlas Terrier vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. Atlas Terrier vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. Atlas Terrier vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. Atlas Terrier vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. Atlas Terrier vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. Atlas Terrier vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Atlas Terrier vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. Atlas Terrier vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  48. Atlas Terrier vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  49. Atlas Terrier vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  50. Aussie Poo vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison