The AKC calls the Bergamasco low-maintenance, robustly healthy and much more than a show-stopping hairdo. The hairdo is still the thing to plan for, because flocks hold water and heat.
Height and weight
Males stand about 23.5 inches and weigh 70 to 84 pounds; females stand about 22 inches and weigh 57 to 71. That fits Business Class (about 30 square feet inside plus 60 outside, $59 a night). Two Bergamascos from one home can share a First Class run for $72 and $61.
Flocks, not cords
The standard describes three kinds of hair, a waterproof undercoat, coarse goat hair and woolly hair, which weave together into flocks with a tight consistency, something like boiled wool. The flocks only reach their full look at about three years. The bath chart's last column is $65 for 51 to 75 pounds and $75 for 76 to 100 on the chart effective January 1, 2024. Flocks stay wet a long time, so please ask the front desk to confirm the price and the drying plan, and bring your dog in with the coat as you keep it.
Patient, protective and busy
The AKC says Bergamascos are generally happy with kids and other animals, eager to please and stubbornly devoted to work, and that they are patient but protective. The large fenced play areas and the grass field suit a working dog, and walks are included. Tell the staff if yours is protective of its person at the car door. Drop-off runs 7:30 to 11:30 AM and 2:00 to 5:00 PM, and a calm hand-off at the car sets the tone for the stay.
Heat management
Three layers of hair is a lot for a Dixon summer. The runs are air-conditioned in summer and your dog chooses inside or outside through the doggie door. Kuranda beds keep the flocks off the concrete.
Records and booking
Rabies, distemper/parvo and Bordetella must be current through the last day. Canine influenza is recommended but not required. See the Puli, the Komondor and large dog boarding.