Borzoi vs Bergamasco - Breed Comparison | Petzlover

Borzoi vs Bergamasco - Breed ComparisonBergamasco is originated from Italy but Borzoi is originated from Bosnia and Herzegovina. Bergamasco may grow 23 cm / 9 inches shorter than Borzoi. Bergamasco may weigh 9 kg / 19 pounds lesser than Borzoi. Bergamasco may live 5 years more than Borzoi. Both Bergamasco and Borzoi has almost same litter size. Both Bergamasco and Borzoi requires Moderate Maintenance.

Basic Information

Group:
Herding dogs
Hound dog
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Italy
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Height Male:
58 - 62 cm
22 - 25 inches
75 - 85 cm
29 - 34 inches
Height Female:
54 - 58 cm
21 - 23 inches
66 - 83 cm
25 - 33 inches
Weight Male:
32 - 38 kg
70 - 84 pounds
34 - 47 kg
74 - 104 pounds
Weight Female:
26 - 38 kg
57 - 84 pounds
25 - 45 kg
55 - 100 pounds
Life Span:
13 - 15 Years
7 - 10 Years
Litter Size:
6 - 10
1 - 11
Size:
Medium
Large
Other Names:
Bergamasco Shepherd Dog, Cane da pastore Bergamasco
Russian Wolfhound Russian Hunting Sighthound Russkaya Psovaya Borzaya
Colors Available:
Grey, sometimes black
Any colour – tan, white, black or a mix such as sandy and white or tan and white.
Coat:
Coarse, long shaggy dreadlocks
Long, silky, wavy or curly
Shedding:
Minimal
Moderate, Seasonal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Territorial
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Docile, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Sweet
Grooming:
Moderate Maintenance
Moderate Maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
Yes
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

History

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.

borzoiDeveloped in Russia and also known as the Russian Wolfhound, the Borzoi was used to hunt wolf in the country. By 1873 there were only a few Borzoi which remained, and the Imperial Association was created to protect this graceful, elegant dog. They were often presented to European nobility as gifts, and thanks to a few dedicated breeders, the breed was saved from extinction and exported to other parts of the world. He was imported to the UK in the late 19th century, and it was Princess Alexandra who did a lot to increase the dog’s popularity in Britain.

The tall, slender, elegant dog was recognized by the AKC in 1891. The Borzoi Club of America, which started off being known as the Russian Wolfhound Club was formed but in 1936 the name was changed to Borzoi. The Russian world ‘Borzoi’ is a term used to encompass all Sight Hounds. Today he is no longer used for hunting but is a gentle companion.

Description

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.

Tall and Graceful to the Eye

borzoi puppy - descriptionThe Borzoi’s silky coat is longer with the male dogs than with the females. The height of these tall graceful dogs is 68 to 74cm. You’ll find that the Borzoi’s back is quite bony and it rises in a curve. He has a tall, lean body and a long, narrow head to match with small, thin ears which rest backwards towards the neck.The silky coat comes in a number of colors - tan, white, black or a mix such as sandy and white or tan and white. The coat is often wavy or slightly curly. The soft undercoat becomes thick in the Winter and he sheds this hair in hotter weather. You’ll find the coat frills on the neck and there is feathering on the hindquarters and with the long tail.

Sweet and Gentle

The Borzoi is a gentle, sweet dog, to such an extent that they don’t make good watch-dogs. He is good with other pets and children, although he isn’t the kind of dog to indulge in games with children. He doesn’t bark much and he is also not a high-energy dog, being fairly happy to make himself at home indoors. This is a faithful, loyal and courageous dog.

His temperament is quiet, sensitive, intelligent and somewhat aloof. Even though he has these quiet characteristics, he will still need training and socialization as this just rounds your dog off, making him a pleasure to have around.

Characteristics

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.

borzoi dog - characteristicsIf you’re looking for a quiet, amicable, elegant breed, you’ll love the big Russian Borzoi, known for his gentleness, sweetness and gracefulness. He is a friendly dog with his human family, although not too keen on children with their boisterous games. It is his gentleness however, that has endeared him to so many dog lovers.

Even though he isn’t one of the most active dogs, he will still need exercise and a walk as he is a big dog used to wide, open spaces. He’ll need the opportunity every now and then to simply run.

He makes a wonderful pet for new- or seasoned pet owners, and if you’re looking for a quiet, devoted companion, why not welcome an elegant, graceful Borzoi into your home?

Health Problems

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

borzoi puppies - health problemsThe Borzoi is a healthy dog, and you’re not likely to be taking him to the veterinarian often but you do need to know about illnesses which are more prevalent in these large breed dogs.

Osteosarcoma

This is a common bone tumor found in dogs and it is more commonly found in large breeds. It can spread quickly to other parts of the body, and although there are treatments, the long term prognosis isn’t good. Your dog will have pain and swelling.

Lymphosarcoma

Lymphosarcoma is a common cancer diagnosed in dogs. It is a cancer of lymphocytes and the average dog gets it from 6 years on. Some dogs may not necessarily feel sick, while others are tired, they don’t eat, they lose weight and may have diarrhea.

Bloat

This is a disease that can be deadly for your dog. Known as gastric dilatation, the stomach twists and fills with gas, putting pressure on the diaphragm, and creating breathing problems. Bloat is more common in large breeds and its up to you as a responsible dog owner to watch out for a swollen stomach with drooling and attempts to vomit.

Remember that some health problems are inherited, but there are other health problems that can be prevented by the way you treat- and raise your dog.

Caring The Pet

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.

Shedding and the Coat

borzoi dogs - caringLong coated dogs shed, and the Borzoi female sheds after her season and the males shed annually. Once the female is spayed, she sheds like the males. You will need to be brushing your Borzoi every day to rid the dogs of this loose hair.

The Teeth

Borzoi teeth collect tartar, more so than with other breeds, so their teeth will need to be brushed at least 3 times a week with special dog toothbrushes and toothpaste to prevent gum and tooth problems.

Food

Good quality food is the foundation for good health with your pet. Home-made food is always good for your dog and should include meat, rice and vegetables. Apart from top quality commercially manufactured food for large breed dogs and recommended by your vet, make sure to include some raw meat into your Borzoi’s diet too. This is imperative to stave off ill health and skin problems. Make sure he has a constant supply of fresh, cool water available to him.

Comparison with other breeds

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  28. Borzoi vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  29. Borzoi vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  30. Borzoi vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. Borzoi vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  32. Borzoi vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  33. Borzoi vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. Borzoi vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. Borzoi vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. Borzoi vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. Borzoi vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. Borzoi vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. Borzoi vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. Borzoi vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. Borzoi vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. Borzoi vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. Borzoi vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. Borzoi vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. Borzoi vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Borzoi vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. Borzoi vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  48. Borzoi vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  49. Borzoi vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  50. Borzoi vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison