Petzlover
Bergamasco is originated from Italy but Tsvetnaya Bolonka is originated from Russia. Bergamasco may grow 35 cm / 14 inches higher than Tsvetnaya Bolonka. Bergamasco may weigh 34 kg / 75 pounds more than Tsvetnaya Bolonka. Both Bergamasco and Tsvetnaya Bolonka has almost same life span. Bergamasco may have more litter size than Tsvetnaya Bolonka. Both Bergamasco and Tsvetnaya Bolonka requires Moderate 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.
It is believed that the dog’s ancestors are the Toy Poodle, Pekingnese, Bichon Frise and Shih Tzu. The Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka has also become more well known since the British royal couple, Willam and Kate, have them as pets.
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.
The Tsvetnaya Bolonka is a small dog standing at 22 – 27cm in height and weighing between 2 and 4kg. He has been developed to be a companion dog.
The long coat of the dog is wavy or curly and is a grey color, brown, red, white or black. The males have a beard and mustache.
Allergy sufferers appreciate that the dog doesn’t shed but the coat will need to be brushed to prevent matting. The ears are medium length and the tail curls up over the back.
These dogs are sturdy, happy, social, playful little dogs with a loving, loyal temperament. They’re balls of fun and make super playmates of disciplined children who have been taught to be kind and gentle with animals.
They are well balanced, amicable dogs with a streak of independence. They’re intelligent too and will respond well to training and socialization.
He isn’t aggressive and isn’t a yapper either. He is a friendly dog, even with strangers but he can still prove to be a good watchdog. Small and compact, he can do well in the countryside or the city.
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 Tsvetnaya Bolonka is a true companion being even-tempered, intelligent and friendly. He has been specifically developed as a companion dog whether you live in the city or the countryside.
He gets on well with children and with other pets in the home and even towards strangers. Just remember that wherever you choose to live with your sweet little pet, he will still need regular exercise to remain the feisty, happy little dog he is.
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
This breed may get some of the typical small-dog health conditions. These can be things such as dental problems, obesity and Patellar Luxation.
Small dogs often have problems with their knees, and patellar luxation is a common orthopedic condition for small dogs. You’ll see your dog walking on 3 legs.
A luxated kneecap can move out of place, but in some more serious instances, it can dislocate completely. Treatment will require a visit to the vet. Sometimes surgery is required.
Small dogs are more prone to dental disease than large dogs. Tartar and plaque form, there is gum recession, and loss of teeth is common with these little dogs.
Check inside his mouth regularly. Brushing the teeth can be of value to the dog and you get special canine dog and toothpaste. A tooth infection can be serious for your pet and cause him to have toxins circulating in the bloodstream that can make him sick.
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.
These little dogs will need a walk each day. They also love all sorts of games both indoors and outside.
Brush the hair regularly to avoid matting. Many people tie the hair around the face into a ponytail. If the hair becomes dirty, it can be gently shampooed with a mild, natural shampoo and conditioned. The wet hair will require a wide-tooth comb to comb the hair.
Feed your dog the best dry kibble that there is. Check the packaging and make sure the ingredients are the best, full of vitamins and minerals. Try to give him some tasty home-made food such as boiled chicken, brown rice and vegetables. Remember to chop it up very finely. Never give your dog foods such as chocolate, popcorn, peanuts, and spicy food. It can upset his stomach. Make sure he has constant access to fresh, cool water.
Get your little pet to the vet if he shows signs of illness and make sure his vaccines are up to date to avoid deadly canine illnesses.