Bergamasco is originated from Italy but Toy Manchester Terrier is originated from United Kingdom. Bergamasco may grow 32 cm / 13 inches higher than Toy Manchester Terrier. Bergamasco may weigh 34 kg / 75 pounds more than Toy Manchester Terrier. Both Bergamasco and Toy Manchester Terrier has almost same life span. Bergamasco may have more litter size than Toy Manchester Terrier. Bergamasco requires Moderate Maintenance. But Toy Manchester Terrier requires Low Maintenance
The 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.
The Toy Manchester Terrier comes from Manchester and came about by breeding the Manchester Terrier with smaller dog breeds.
Looking like a Doberman Pinscher, the American Toy Manchester Terrier Club was formed in the 1930s and the dog was recognized in 1938 by the American Kennel Club.
It is believed that the Black and Tan Terrier was also possibly crossed with Whippets. The dog is categorized as a Terrier or as a Toy breed.
This 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.
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.
Looking much like a small Doberman Pinscher, the Manchester Terrier is the miniature version of the standard Manchester.
He weighs in the region of 2 to 5kg and stands at between 25 and 30cm in height. He has a sleek, short coat which is black and tan. He is lithe and muscular, bred back in the day to kill vermin. He has large, broad erect ears which taper to a point.
The Toy Manchester Terrier is a gentle but energetic dog, a great choice for an active family. Throw a ball and you’ll see how he loves to give chase, and he’ll also love his walk every day.
They’re adaptable too, so if you live in the countryside or the city, he can be your friend and companion there.
Training and socialization are excellent for all dogs, particularly ones with a stubborn, independent streak such as with this dog. He is intelligent and will learn quickly. They’re alert too so you can expect him to be a good watchdog.
This 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.
The Toy Manchester Terrier is full of beans and will provide you with lots of fun. They're sociable and love being in the presence of their human family.
They get on well with kids and pets in the home and are brave, alert and feisty. He may be small, but he is full of personality and he’s just waiting to fill your home with his bright charm, promising to be a loyal, loving pet.
Your 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
The Toy Manchester Terrier is a healthy dog breed and can reach anything between 14 and 16 years of age. Good food and exercise can stave off illness, but there are some common dog illnesses that any dog can succumb to.
This occurs when there are problems with the thyroid hormone. You might find skin problems with your pet, lethargy and even hair loss. Your vet might suggest hormone replacement, but there are always natural products for dogs too.
This is when there is degeneration of the head on the femur bone so that there is also joint inflammation.
It is thought that the condition is brought on by problems with blood supply to the femoral head. Lameness sets in and then your vet will want a medical history of your pet’s health.
The 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.
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.
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.
Make sure you provide your pet with yard space and that he is well exercised and occupied. Provide him with exercise and give him attention.
Provide him with a dry, quiet resting place. If he spends time outdoors, he must have shade and sun as well as shelter from the rain.
Provide him with good food in his own special bowls. If you feed him dry kibble, make sure to give him a quality one with vitamins and minerals. The food’s labeling will guide you as to what to buy, but your vet is also a good source of useful information. Try to give him some home-made food too. Boiled chicken, brown rice, sweet potatoes and spinach for instance, are excellent examples. Dont add in exotic spices and curries that can give him an upset stomach. Make sure he has a constant supply of fresh, cool water.
Get your Manchester to the vet if he is ill. Make sure his vaccines are up to date.
He has short hair and is a low maintenance dog. Brush him once or twice a week to keep his shiny coat healthy. Check inside his ears for redness and give him a good check-over to make sure he doesn’t have any odd looking lumps or sores on his body.