The Bergamasco has ancient origins.  In fact it comes from that stock of shepherds and cattle dogs that spread from the Orient to the Western world after migrations of the nomad populations and their herds.  The exchange of the dogs took place when the sheep were sold.  The progenitor of the Bergamasco Shepherd found its most suitable cradle in our country in the territory of the Alpine Arc, where sheep herding was much developed, and in the Po Basin of Piedmont and Lombardy, where they went for wintering.  The Bergamasco was selected exclusively for its work aptitudes and for a long time its bloodlines were kept a secret by the shepherds.
The Bergamasco Sheep is an ancient breed, which is at least 2000 years old.  The ancestors of the Bergamasco spread out along the Alpine chain.  Ancient dog lovers speak of a dog of the Alps and some describe a sheepdog in the Vallese region.  The only common element in these vague sources is that the coat is described as long, thick and shabby.  Strong, sound and brave, this dog is also very intelligence and has a good equilibrium.  The Bergamasco is a medium size dog, well proportioned and harmonious having a rustic appearance.  He is a solidly compact dog with a strong, powerful build that gives him great resistance without taking away any of his agility and speed of movement.  His imposing aspect is increased by the thick coat, which is one of his typical characteristics and makes him different from any other dog.  Three types of hair, which is abundant and forms mats or flocks, which is the distinguishing characteristic of this breed, characterize the Bergamascos coat.  The mats start from the spine and go down the flanks, growing every year to reach the ground.  The thick curtain of hair that covers the eyes has a functional purpose as well.  It serves as a visor so as not to be dazzled by the sun reflecting off the snow in the mountains.  The color of the coat can be anything from gray or silver gray to anthracite (coal color).  This color served as a camouflage when working in the mountains.  The entire hereditary pattern is deeply ingrained in the breed.  Even in our modern times, the Bergamasco remains the same.