ADOLESCENT COAT
The Adolescent Coat
9 months to 2 years
The transition from puppy coat to adult coat can take several months, and during this time, the texture and appearance of the coat will change significantly the hairs start to intertwine and mat together in clumps forming felts known as flocks
Some Bergamascos may experience true felting/matting of their coat as the adult coat grows in, while others coats may require more frequent brushing to prevent matting and maintain the texture of the coat.
No Bergamasco coat is the same and some will take longer to form whilst others may develop at a much younger age. Coats that are denser will need to be separated more regularly. Every Bergamasco coat will flock but each coat has it own unique traits depended on the balance between the different types of hair
It is important to note that the distribution of the three types of hair on a Bergamasco's body is not consistent. More woolly hair is usually found towards the rear of the dog, while the head remains softer and generally free from felting. Goat hair also develops at different stages. This is normal for the breed.
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As the felting of the coat becomes more pronounced, it is important to prevent the coat from forming huge clumps. These bigger matted clumps, if they form, can be broken down by tearing the coat apart by hand from the loose top hair working towards the skin in a sideward action to avoid pulling. Work from the inside out in sensitive areas, such as the muzzle and ears. This should always be done by hand, however, if the felt is particularly thick, scissors can be used as a last resort.
During the flock formation period brushing should be limited to the head, ears and tail and bathing your dog should only be done when completely necessary. The coat can, however, be lightly brushed on the surface to ensure any debris is removed.
Once well into the adolescent stage you will notice the coat developing into more prominent flocks or lines (which can be over night!). This is when the brush can be put away and the coat left to develop and grow naturally. Brushing of the face and tail areas should continue.
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The coat now needs to be left to develop into clear flocks. This can either be achieved by separating the coat into pieces as it develops or by letting the coat form clear bands around the body and legs with clear lines to the skin either side of the bands. The coat is then separated into flocks once it is thick enough and long enough. The process of dividing the flocks is also known as setting the coat and is only ever completed once. Once the coat has been set, there's no turning back.
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During the setting stage, getting the right thickness of flocks at this stage is crucial since the felts will get longer with age. If the felt is too thin, it may break off or be pulled off during typical dog play.
