The Bergamasco, the World's Shaggiest Dog Breed

Even among dogs renowned for their abundant coats, the Bergamasco stands above the rest. Have you heard of it?

Pet publication PetMD described the Bergamasco, a breed famous for its thick coat, as having “three types of hair that form dense, evenly distributed, felt-like mats covering its body.” This is why it is sometimes called the world's shaggiest dog.

The Bergamasco's coat is generally a blend of black and gray. Some have white hair, although this is not accepted at dog shows conducted according to the breed standard. The breed has a muscular build, a large head and a long tail. Although it is not an easy breed to handle, it is generally quiet and eager to please its owner.

The Bergamasco, an ancestor of Asian shepherd dogs, is said to have been brought by Phoenician traders from the Middle East to the mountainous area near Milan before the founding of the Roman Empire. It is said to have later worked alongside shepherds in Asia and developed into an independent herding dog. Its intelligence also developed as it identified and solved problems that arose while herding sheep.

During World War II, rising demand for wool reduced demand for shepherds and herding dogs, putting the Bergamasco at risk of extinction. However, Italian breeder Dr. Maria Andreoli successfully bred Bergamascos in the early 1960s, saving the breed from extinction. Today, Bergamascos live with dog lovers around the world who adore shaggy breeds.