BERGAMASCO NEWS
News
News 2024
A RARE OPPORTUNITY TO REHOME A BERGAMASCO IN THE UK
A beautiful and loving 3 1/2 year old Bergamasco girl is looking for a new forever home. Please contact me if interested: info@bergamasco.uk
A three and a half year old female Bergamasco is looking for her forever home. She's incredibly loving with her owners yet no longer gets on with the other female dogs in the household. For this reason, she will need to go to a home as an only dog.
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For more information, if you're interested, or have any questions, please contact me at info@bergamasco.uk
HAPPY 2ND BIRTHDAY!!
Happy 2nd Birthday to the Boscoantico Autumn 2022 litter - I hope you all got spoilt rotten!!​​
ALFIE - THE MULTI-CHAMPION
At the (still young) age of 7, Alfie, Fato Del Boscoantico has achieved more in the show ring than any other UK based Bergamasco.
At the 2023 World Dog Show held in Switzerland, Alfie became the first UK based Bergamasco to become a champion after winning the CAC at both the Grand-Prix de Geneve International show and the World Dog Show; A wonderful achievement given it was mostly against the Italian contingent of Bergamascos.
In July 2024, he travelled to Cork in the Republic of Ireland to compete in the Munster Agricultural Society’s 150th year Championship Dog Show, a double National on the Saturday followed by an International on the Sunday.
Over the course of the weekend he was awarded with 3x Excellent grade, 3x Green Star, 3x Best of Breed and Sunday’s CACIB. He was also shortlisted in the Group, a wonderful achievement for such a rare breed against many other Best of Breed winners in FCI Group 1.
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The above awarded Alfie with the accolade of:
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Swiss, Irish and International Champion!
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Congratulations to Boscoantico Bergamascos, Paul and Jo Sandford. In a country whose own Kennel Club do not even fully recognise the Bergamasco as a Breed, this truly is a wonderful achievement and yet another step forward in gaining full recognition of our wonderful dogs. Someone's got to do it!​​​
MAC'S IRISH TOUR ENDS IN STARS - 4 OF THEM!
In 2023 Mac (Boscoantico Baci Da Vischio) won his first green star; A fantastic start on his journey in becoming an Irish Champion Dog. To be awarded the title of Irish Champion a dog must obtain a total of not less than seven Green Stars under seven different judges so there was still a long way for Mac to go.
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In 2024, now at 3 years of age, he has matured into a competent show dog, winning 4th in Open Dog at Crufts and gaining his first Best of Breed at the Scottish Kennel Club Championship Show so it felt a good time for Mac and his owners, Gareth and Jane, to have a go at adding a few more Green Stars to his Rosette board.
Over the space of 2 weekends Mac took on four championship shows - Portadown, Banbridge, Kilkenny and Deise. The weather (as expected in Ireland) wasn't kind yet Mac relished the opportunity in all the conditions thrown at him.
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An amazing set of results - Mac came away with:
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4 x "Excellent" gradings
4 x Best of Breeds
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4 x Green Stars!
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Mac now has 5 Green stars awarded to his name and is a small step away from that Irish Champion status. Congratulations to all involved!​​​
PETER CLIMBS NEVIS
When Peter (Boscoantico Betulla Bianca Del Sejati) isn't running around the show ring, he can be found up in the Highlands of Scotland. Recently Peter, with his owner Charlene, took on the challenge of Britains highest mountain, Ben Nevis. Needless to say, Peter (and Charlene) took it in their stride. Here are some photos of their climb together.
UK ELECTIONS - #dogsatpollingstations
It's Thursday 4th July 2024 and the General election is upon us. Our Bergamasco's have been out in force, casting their votes!!
JUNE '24 SHOW RESULTS - THE BERGAMASCOS ARE IN FINE FORM
Summer is in full swing and the shows are coming thick and fast. So much so that I'm finding it hard to keep up!
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Throughout the summer in the UK, we have a number of Championship shows. These are BIG events, mostly held over four days and usually with entries of between 5,000 to 8,000 dogs. They have a real summery feel about them, with manicured lawns, huge marquees and some beautiful best in show rings.
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Since my last update there have been weekly Championship shows and I am pleased to say that our Bergamascos have been doing rather well. Below are the results:
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RESULTS
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Bath Championship Show
A.V. Imported Breed Register Pastoral - Judge: Mrs J Peak
Entries - 16
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Open Bitch - 1st - Gertie (Int. Ch. Boscoantico Agrifoglia)
​Best opposite sex - Gertie (Int. Ch. Boscoantico Agrifoglia)
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Southern Counties Championship Show
A.V. Imported Breed Register Pastoral - Judge: Espen Engh [Norway]
Entries - 16
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Veteran Dog - 1st - Alfie (Sw. Ch. Fato Del Boscoantico)
Best Veteran - 1st - Alfie (Sw. Ch. Fato Del Boscoantico)
​Open - Gertie 1st (Int. Ch. Boscoantico Agrifoglia)
​Best Bitch and Best of Breed - Gertie ( Int. Ch. Boscoantico Agrifoglia)
Gertie ( Int. Ch. Boscoantico Agrifoglia) - Shortlisted in Pastoral Group​
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Border Union Championship Show
A.V. Imported Breed Register Pastoral - Judge: Marion Waddell
Entries - 12
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Veteran Dog - 1st - Alfie (Sw. Ch. Fato Del Boscoantico)
Best Veteran - 1st - Alfie (Sw. Ch. Fato Del Boscoantico)
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Blackpool Championship Show
A.V. Imported Breed Register Pastoral - Judge: Mr Rodney Price
Entries - 14
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Post Graduate Dog - 1st - Rastafellow's Omg Che Gentile
Open Dog - 2nd - Bellezzalana Arturo
Open Bitch - 1st - Gertie (Int. Ch. Boscoantico Agrifoglia)
Best Bitch and Best of Breed - Gertie (Int. Ch. Boscoantico Agrifoglia)
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Windsor Championship Show
A.V. Imported Breed Register Pastoral - Judge: Mr D Clarke
Entries - 18
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Veteran Dog - 1st - Alfie (Sw. Ch. Fato Del Boscoantico)
Best Veteran - 1st - Alfie (Sw. Ch. Fato Del Boscoantico)
​Open Bitch - 1st Gertie ( Int. Ch. Boscoantico Agrifoglia)
​Best Bitch and Best of Breed - Gertie ( Int. Ch. Boscoantico Agrifoglia)​​​​
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Congratulations to all that have shown their beautiful dogs over the last month
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SKC 2024 May Results - Mac makes his mark
The Scottish Kennel Club combined both their usual May and October Championship shows to a double show held over four days in May. The A.V. Import Register Pastoral class was held on the Saturday and four of our UK based Bergamascos competed against the numerous White Swiss Shepherds. The Bergamascos came out on top....
Boscoantico Baci Da Vischio AKA Mac - owned by Gareth and Jane Withers won his first Best Dog and first Best of Breed at the Scottish Kennel Club 2024 May Show. Judged by Mr S Plane, Mac produced his most mature performance to date and was awarded a wonderful 1st place in a quality and experienced Open Dog class. In the dog challenge he swept his rivals aside and deservedly won his very first Best Dog award. Not to sit back, satisfied with his achievements in the Best of Breed challenge Mac came up for the very first time against his litter sister Gertie, Int Ch Boscoantico Agrifoglia. This was the first time they had ever come up against each other in the show ring and on the day there was no way Mac was going to be beaten. Boscoantico Baci Da Vischio Best of Breed.
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Congratulations to all involved. There were some wonderful performances on the day and our Bergamascos did us proud.
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Results of the SKC 2024 May Show
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Post Graduate Dog - 2nd - Boscoantico Betulla Bianca Del Sejati - Peter
Open Dog - 1st - Boscoantico Baci Da Vischio - Mac
Open Dog - 4th - Swi Ch Fato Del Boscoantico (Imp Ita) Ew23 - Alfie
Post Graduate Bitch - 2nd - Ancient Eyes Gemma Nel Boscoantico (Imp USA) - Gemma
Open Bitch - 1st - Int. Ch. Boscoantico Agrifoglia - Gertie
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Best Dog - Boscoantico Baci Da Vischio
Best Bitch - Int. Ch. Boscoantico Agrifoglia
Best of Breed - Boscoantico Baci Da Vischio
Breeders Competition - A first for UK Bergamascos
For the first time ever in the UK, three of our Bergamascos competed in a Breeders competition and came away with a wonderful 2nd place!
Given the rarity of the Bergamasco (roughly 70 registered in the UK), it comes as no surprise that we have never seen the Breed compete in a Breeders Competition at a UK Championship show. At the Scottish Kennel Club a little bit of breed history was made and for the first time we witnessed three of them having a go (and doing rather well!).
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In a Championship Breeders competition, three or more dogs bred by the same breeder compete against other dogs also in the pastoral group. Boscoantico Bergamasco's, of breeders Jo and Paul Sandford, found the perfect opportunity to try their luck and show off their dogs at SKC.
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From left to right in the video,1 year old Boscoantico Betulla Bianca (Peter) owned by Charlene Neo, 3 year old Boscoantico Baci Da Vischio (Mac) owned by Gareth and Jane Withers and 3 year old Int Ch Boscoantico Agrifoglia (Gertie) owned by Simon Gill and Yvonne Lee, managed a wonderful 2nd place on their very first go. Both Mac and Peter are based in Scotland whereas Gertie is based on the South Coast of England so they had no way to practice together beforehand. Despite this, we think they sychronised quite beautifully! Congratulations to the Boscoantico team and lets hope we can find more opportunities to show our lovely UK bred dogs off in the future.
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THE NATIONAL - THE BERGAMASCOS ARE BACK IN FORM
It was a tough show for the Bergamascos at WELKS the previous week where the White Swiss Shepherds got the better of them so could they bounce back at The National Dog Show - Birmingham under judge Mr Tim Ball?
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Yes they could! Outnumbered as always, and with the competition and quality getting noticeably better each week, they had a wonderful show with some notable awards being given.
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In Post Graduate Dog, Rastafellow's Omg Che Gentile owned by Miss R Abbot and Mr D Beeton managed a 1st against some really nice White Swiss and went on to be awarded Reserve Best Dog. Alfie, Swi Ch Fato Del Boscoantico (Imp Ita) owned by Paul and Jo Sandford, had a tough task in Open Dog and was awarded with a 3rd. In Post Graduate bitch, Gemma, Ancient Eyes Gemma Nel Boscoantico (Imp USA) continued her recent success with another 1st place. Gertie, Int Ch Boscoantico Agrifoglia, owned by Simon Gill and Yvonne Lee, continued her run of good form in Open Bitch and was awarded 1st and Best of Sex.
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Congratulations to all of the dogs, owners and handlers involved. As always, it's great to show off our dogs in the show ring and raise at least some awareness of this wonderful Breed. They certainly turn a number of heads at these events! I will soon be adding an "Activities" page to the website and will include a friendly guide to the dog show scene. I would encourage everyone to give it a go and have some fun with their Bergamasco in the process.
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RESULTS
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Post Graduate Dog - 1st - Rastafellow's Omg Che Gentile
Open Dog - 3rd - Swi Ch Fato Del Boscoantico (Imp Ita) Ew23
Post Graduate Bitch - 1st - Ancient Eyes Gemma Nel Boscoantico (Imp USA)
Open Bitch - 1st - Int. Ch. Boscoantico Agrifoglia
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Res. Best Dog - Rastafellow's Omg Che Gentile
Best Bitch - Int. Ch. Boscoantico Agrifoglia
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WELKS - A TOUGH DAY FOR OUR BERGAMASCOS
Despite my report that "Spring had Sprung" last weekend I feel that I was rather premature or perhaps optimistic.
The Bergamascos were showing on the last day of the show, Sunday, and the weather was terrible! A few of our dogs had full coats on and the rest of us did our best to keep the Bergamascos dry. Thankfully, the weather cleared mid-morning and as fortunes would have it the A V Import class (Pastoral) started very late giving us plenty of time to dry and prepare our dogs.
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Under judge Mr Keith Baldwin our Bergamascos battled hard yet the day was to go to the White Swiss Shepherds. In fact, in all but one of the classes the White Swiss came out on top and the only class where they didn't there were no White Swiss in the class! This demonstrates just how hard it is to compete (and to judge) in the A V Import classes. The previous week at the Pastoral Breed Association of Wales, the same dogs competed yet the results were hugely different. It can be somewhat of a lottery with such different varieties of breeds competing against each other in one breed class.
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It was still very much an enjoyable day out and the results and some photos are below.
RESULTS
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Post Graduate Dog - 2nd - Rastafellow's Omg Che Gentile
Open Dog - 3rd - Bellezzalana Arturo
Open Dog - 4th - Swi Ch Fato Del Boscoantico (Imp Ita) Ew23
Post Graduate Bitch - 2nd - Ancient Eyes Gemma Nel Boscoantico (Imp USA)
Open Bitch - 1st - Int. Ch. Boscoantico Agrifoglia
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Res. Best Bitch - Int. Ch. Boscoantico Agrifoglia
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Congratulations to all of those involved!
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We've got a week off and our Bergamascos will next travel to Stafford in the Midlands to compete in the Birminghamp National Championship show on 10th May. Support and follow their progress here and on our social media.
THE BERGAMASCOS SHINE IN WALES
After a wet and dreary winter, Spring finally seems to have sprung and so has the start of the Championship show season.
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First on the schedule was the Working and Pastoral Breed Association of Wales and four of our UK Bergamascos took the long trip into the heart of beautiful Wales to compete at the National Showground in Builth Wells.
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It was a successful day for our dogs and I think it's fair to say that the judge, Mrs D Stansbury really appreciated the standard of the Bergamascos on show.
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RESULTS
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Post Graduate Dog - 2nd - Rastafellow's Omg Che Gentile
Open Dog - 1st - Bellezzalana Arturo
Post Graduate Bitch - 1st - Ancient Eyes Gemma Nel Boscoantico (Imp USA)
Open Bitch - 1st - Int. Ch. Boscoantico Agrifoglia
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Best Dog - Bellezzalana Arturo
Best Bitch - Int. Ch. Boscoantico Agrifoglia
Res. Best Bitch - Ancient Eyes Gemma Nel Boscoantico (Imp USA)
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Best of Breed - Int. Ch. Boscoantico Agrifoglia
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Congratulations to all of those involved!
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The shows now come thick and fast and Next week our Bergamascos travel to Malvern in the Cotswolds to compete in WELKS Championship show. Support and follow their progress here and on our social media.
Ancient Eyes Gemma Nel Boscoantico (Imp USA) showed by Anne in the Post Graduate Bitch class
IT'S THE BIG ONE! - CRUFTS 2024
Crufts week has come and gone and what a wonderful event it was. The Bergamascos were showing on the Saturday and boy was it busy. Our Bergamascos get so much attention from the public that it amazes me just how well they can cope and still go into the show ring to perform. It’s a real credit to their characters and I hope that we raised some real awareness of our breed throughout the day.
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In the UK, the Bergamascos are considered too rare for the Royal Kennel Club to issue them with their own Breed Standard, however, they are issued with an interim one and are permitted to show in the A.V. Imported Breed Register (Pastoral) class amongst other breeds on the register. For the Bergamascos, this means they compete against a variety of other dogs in their class, arguably making it one of the toughest classes to show in and perhaps the toughest to judge!
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At Crufts 2024 we had 11 Bergamascos showing and they were up against 36 White Swiss Shepherds, 5 Picardy Sheepdogs, 3 Pyrenean Sheepdogs (Smooth Faced), 2 Swedish Lapphunds and a Hungarian Kuvasz. As expected at Crufts this was one hell of a challenge for our Bergamascos. The Bergamascos on show were:
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Junior Dog (5 entries)
Bellezzalana Bacio Biaggio
Boscoantico Betulla Bianca Del Sejati
Adonis-Ares del Montevergine For Morrioghain (Imp Che)
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Post Graduate Dog (9 entries)
Rastafellow's Omg Che Gentile
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Open Dog (16 entries)
Bellezzalana Arturo
Boscoantico Baci Da Vischio
Swi Ch Fato Del Boscoantico (Imp Ita)
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Junior Bitch (5 entries)
Bellezzalana Bacione Biaga
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Post Graduate Bitch (11 entries)
Bellezzalana Ayla-Bella
Ancient Eyes Gemma Nel Boscoantico (Imp USA)
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Open Bitch (14 entries)
Int Ch Boscoantico Agrifoglia
RESULTS
It was TOUGH but, yet again, the Bergamascos punched well above their weight despite being outnumbered by the White Swiss by over 3 to 1. All of the Bergamascos showed their hearts out and whilst it was an impossible task for all to be placed there were some fantastic results - A massive congratulations to all 11 of them.
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Junior Dog (5 entries)
2nd - Boscoantico Betulla Bianca Del Sejati
3rd - Adonis-Ares del Montevergine For Morrioghain (Imp Che)
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Post Graduate Dog (9 entries)
2nd - Rastafellow's Omg Che Gentile
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Open Dog (16 entries)
4th - Boscoantico Baci Da Vischio
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Junior Bitch (5 entries)
3rd - Bellezzalana Bacione Biaga
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Post Graduate Bitch (11 entries)
4th - Ancient Eyes Gemma Nel Boscoantico (Imp USA)
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Open Bitch (14 entries)
3rd - Int Ch Boscoantico Agrifoglia
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Well done to all and thank you for making it such an enjoyable day out.
RETURN OF THE MAC - A BERGAMSCO GROUP PLACING!
It's the beginning of show season and with Crufts 2024 just around the corner (only 2 weeks away), everyone is trying to squeeze in a last bit of practice, sort the grubby winter coats out and make their Bergamascos as presentable as possible.
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Mac's (Boscoantico Baci Da Vischio) last venture around the show ring was back in the summer of 2023 where he won a fabulous Green star at an FCI show in Ireland. Just to remind his owners Gareth and Jane that knows what he's doing, Mac ventured to the Carluke and District Canine Society Dog Show where he, as the sole Bergamasco, took on White Swiss Shepherds and not only won Best of Breed but was also awarded a wonderful Group 4 under judge Toni Wescott-Smith (Rozimba).
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Congratulations to Gareth, Jane and of course Mac.
PUPPIES AVAILABLE! - A BEAUTIFUL LITTER FROM THE BLUSNOWBEAR KENNEL
Fantastic news from the Blusnowbears Kennel in Cardiff!
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IMAGNA DELLA LUNA DI LANA AVEC BLUSNOWBEARS (IMP ITA) X CH IT ADELCHIMAZEE
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On the 21st January 2024, Imagna Della Luna Di Lana Avec Blusnowbears littered 3 beautiful puppies - 2 Grey Girls and 1 Black Boy. The Sire of the pups is Italian Champion Adelchimazee. Both parents have been health tested and are wonderful examples of the Breed. The puppies will be available on or around 17th March 2024.
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*AVAILABLE* - 2 Grey Girls and 1 black Boy
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To register your interest please contact me via email info@bergamasco.uk or please complete the contact form which can be found here
Italian Champion Adelcimazee
A RARE OPPORTUNITY TO REHOME A BERGAMASCO IN THE UK
A beautiful 17 month old Bergamasco boy is looking for a new forever home. Continue reading below for the details:
Elmo is a 17 month old Bergamasco boy who, due to unforeseen circumstacnces, is looking for his forever home. Elmo is an incredibly friendly boy, very playful and enjoys being loved and fussed over. He's big, around 32kg, and as an adolecent dog (who's still a puppy at heart) will need someone who has the time to continue his training. He will need walks and outdoor space to run and play. He is strong on the lead but is making good progress in learning, and is improving with
his socialising when out of the home. He has lovely interactions with people and children but can be wary when surprised by people sneaking up on him. His socialisation will need continuing.
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For more information, if you're interested, or have any questions, please contact me at info@bergamasco.uk
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Male Bergamasco
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Black
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Coat - Legs are flocked and the body is ready to be set
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Age - 17 months
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Weight 32kg
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Pedigree - Swi Sh Ch. Fato Del Boscoantico x Calshair Sgur Fiona Nel Boscoantico
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Temperament - fun, loving, full of life, very affectionate
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Good with other pets? - Dogs, Yes. Cats, unknown.
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Good with people and children
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Trained? Yes, although at adolecent stage!
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SHOW REPORTS FROM REDDITCH AND MANCHESTER
Redditch Open Show - Volunteering experience and show results
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I Hope everyone had a lovely Christmas and New Year.
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Last weekend was the Redditch and District Canine Society Open show which was held in a completely different month and completely different venue to previous years and I thought it was a great success. For us that show in the Rare Breed and Import Breed Register, Redditch & DCS went above and beyond to encourage import exhibits and make us welcome by putting on a Best Import in Show. The entry numbers suggested that this was very well received and it would be great to see other shows do similar. Rather than show my Bergamasco, I volunteered my help which, I must say, I really enjoyed. Having only ever previously been on the other side as an exhibitor, it was eye opening just to see how much effort goes in to running a show and ensuring it goes smoothly, finishing in a timely manner. Congratulations to Steve Bennett, his committee and the volunteers for making it such a success and their efforts with the Rare and Import Breed “specials".
There were three Bergamascos on show that day with Bellezzalana Arturo winning Best of Breed in the Import Breed Register Class – Pastoral. Congratulations to the winning Bergamasco and his owners.
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Taken from the Breed Notes in OurDogs 26.01.24
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Manchester Championship Show 2024
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The first Championship show of the season, Manchester Dogs Show, took place last weekend and we had a number of Bergamascos showing under judge Graham Hill.
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Unfortunately, it was a day where the White Swiss Shepherds dominated yet our Bergamascos put up a good fight. In Post Graduate Dog/Bitch, Rastafellows OMG Che Gentile owned by Miss R Abbott, notched up a good 2nd place. In Open Dog Bellezzalana Arturo, again owned by Miss R Abbott also got a solid 2nd place. Paul and Jo Sandfords, Alfie, Fato del Boscoantico managed 3rd in Open Dog. Congratulations to all who took part.
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There is a natural shortage of Championship shows at this early stage in the year so next up is Crufts 2024 where I expect a strong showing of Bergamascos. There are plenty of Open shows in between so I will of course report any further Bergamasco show news from those.
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The OurDogs and Arden Grange Top Dog, Puppy, Brood, Stud and Breeder competitions have been finalised so I plan to update everyone with the results and detailed report from 2023 in next weeks edition.
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Taken from the Breed Notes in OurDogs 02.02.24
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EXCITING NEWS TO KICK OFF 2024 - A LITTER IS PLANNED IN NORWAY!
What lovely news to start off 2024. The Flying Circus Kennel in Norway are planning a litter for the summer of 2024
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Multi Champion Iceman Del Piervez x Penny (Nush Such Nordv-23 - Flying Circus Polly Parrot)
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For information or to register interest visit the Flying Circus kennel page HERE
News 2023
BOSCOANTICO AGRIFOGLIA - INTERNATIONAL SHOW CHAMPION
It was only last month that we were reporting on the fantastic achievement of Alfie (Fato Del Boscoantico) becoming the first ever UK resident Bergamasco to be awarded a Champion title (Swiss Champion). Well, we have more great news. The UK has another Champion!
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Following the 49th & 50th Maastricht International Dog Shows, Gertie (Boscoantico Agrifoglia), the daughter of Alfie and Fiona (Calshair Sgur Fiona Nel Boscoantico), has become an International Show Champion! She is the first UK born Bergamasco to have ever achieved Champion status. Congratulations to Simon and Yvonne, Gertie's owners and a massive congratulations must go to Jo and Paul Sandford of Boscoantico Bergamascos, a wonderful achievement by wonderful breeders.
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Gertie won her first FCI-CACIB at the 2022 European Dog Show in Paris where she was awarded Best Opposite Sex. In 2023 she travelled to the European Dog Show and Agria Winners show in Herning, Denmark, where she won Best of Breed at both shows picking up a further two CACIB's. At the Maastricht International Dog Show, Netherlands, on the 16th and 17th September 2023 she won Best of Breed at both shows and was awarded her 4th and 5th CACIB.
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To become an International Show Champion a dog must win 4 CACIB's (Certificats d'Aptitude au Championnat International de Beauté), at least one year and one day apart, under at least 3 different judges in at least 3 different countries; Gertie has been awarded 5 CACIB's, 17 months apart under 5 different judges in 3 FCI countries.
As many of you may be aware from her social media, when Gertie is away from the show ring she can be found in the pubs of Southern England enjoying a well earned break.
SHOW RESULTS - THE SEASON IS ALMOST OVER
After a packed summer of shows in the UK and around the world, the outdoor show season is coming to an end.
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Over the last month the UK Bergamascos have continued their fine form and we can report show results from S.A.B. Annual Gathering (Italy), The Richmond Championship Show, The Darlington Championship Show and The Maastricht International Dog Show.
50th Maastricht International Show - 17 September 2023
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Gertie (Boscoantico Agrifoglia) - Excellent, 1st Open Dog, Best of Breed, CAC, FCI-CACIB
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49th Maastricht International Show - 16 September 2023
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Gertie - Excellent, 1st Open Dog, Best of Breed, CAC, FCI-CACIB
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Darlington Championship Show - 17 September 2023
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Peter (Boscoantico Betulla Bianca Del Sejati) - 1st Junior Dog, Reserve Best Dog
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Richmond Championship Show - 10 September 2023
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Alfie (Fato Del Boscoantico) - 1st Open Dog, Best Dog, Best of Breed
Gemma (Ancient Eyes Gemma Nel Boscoantico) - 2nd Post Graduate Bitch
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S.A.B. Bergamasco Club Show - 2 September 2023
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Alfie - Excellent, 1st Open Dog, CAC
Fiona (Calshair Sgur Fiona Nel Boscoantico) - Excellent
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What a fantastic set of results adding to an already marvellous year to the UK show Bergamascos. Long may it continue.
S.A.B. ANNUAL GATHERING
S.A.B is the only Bergamasco club officially recognized by the Italian Kennel Club (ENCI) was formed in 1949 and is essentially the home of the Bergamasco. S.A.B have an annual gathering and Club show on the outskirts of Bergamo, Italy and some of our UK Bergamasco's were lucky enough to join them, meet the other Bergamascos and take part in the show. Below are some pictures from this wonderful event.
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For more information on S.A.B. please take a look at: www.pastore-bergamasco.net
THE WORLD DOG SHOW 2023
The World Dog Show 2023 came to the beautiful city of Geneva and 5 of our wonderful UK Bergamasco's travelled the distance to compete.
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It was unseasonably hot; Temperatures reached 40 degrees celsius which created challenges for all of the dogs yet the relative coolness of the Palexpo Arena offered a welcome respite. Access to the Palexpo was relatively straight forward and, after having a veterinary check on arrival the Bergamascos were ready to show.
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On Wednesday 23 August, we had our first International show, The Grand Prix de Geneve. This was a one-day International show put on by the organisers using the same rings and set up as the World Dog Show. Our UK Bergamascos were joined by Bergamascos from Switzerland and Denmark and we took to the ring under judge Aida Rivera from Columbia.
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First up were the boys:
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Elmo (Boscoantico Olmo) was the first to step into the ring in the Junior class and after a surprisingly mature performance (he is still a puppy after all) he was awarded an Excellent grading, Junior FCI-CACIB, CAC and BEST Junior.
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Next up, Alfie (Fato Del Boscoantico) competing in the Open class. Now almost 7 years old, Alfie has a lot of experience in the show ring. As expected he performed admirably and was awarded an Excellent grading, 1st Open Dog, CAC and FCI-CACIB.
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It was now the turn of the girls and for the first time they were to be competing against each other in the same class, Open bitch.
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Fiona (Calshair Sgur Fiona Nel Boscoantico), the most mature of the three performed beautifully and for this was awarded an Excellent grading, 1st Open bitch, CAC, FCI-CACIB and Best Opposite Sex. The ever improving Gemma (Ancient Eyes Gemma Nel Boscoantico) was awarded an Excellent grading, 2nd Open bitch, Res CAC and Res FCI-CACIB. In 3rd place, again with an excellent grading was Gertie (Boscoantico Agrifoglia).
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Winning the V-CAC, V-CACIB and Best of Breed for the day was Pia Pederson's (Perfect Storms Bergamascos) veteran boy, Rubin from Denmark. Congratulations!!
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24 August, and we were back to do it all again at the World Dog Show 2023. The dogs that competed in the Grand Prix De Geneva were joined by the Italian and Austrian contingent, most of them Champions and were shown under breed specialist judge, Claude Ritter from France. His judging and knowledge of the Bergamascos was exceptional. Despite the small rings he created room for all of the dogs to move freely, his assessment of the dogs was thorough and the extensive feedback and critique he gave on each of the dogs was appreciated by all exhibitors.
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Elmo was again first on and he was up against the very smart Arturo Zeno who we first met at the European Dog Show in May. Elmo finished 2nd to the Italian and was awarded with a Very Good grading.
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In the Open class Alfie came up against some tough competition but yet again showed his class. He was awarded the Excellent grading, 1st in class, the CAC and reserve CACIB. More importantly, for the 2023 World Dog Show, the Swiss Kennel Club made a special concession in that if your dog won the CAC at both the Grand Prix de Geneva and the World Dog Show, it would be awarded the title of Swiss Show Champion. Alfie had done just that, he'd become the UK's first resident Champion Bergamasco - see full story here.
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Fiona, Gemma and Gertie were next on competing against the gorgeous Bergamascos from the Lupercali kennels. All performed beautifully yet it was the Italian bitch Ni Ni Fo Dei Lupercali who won the class. Gertie was graded excellent finishing in 2nd and awarded the Res CAC, Fiona was graded Excellent finishing 3rd and Gemma received another excellent grading finishing in 4th. All received some lovely critiques and comments from the judge.
The Italian, Iris Dei Lupercali won V-CAC, V-CACIB and Best of Breed.
We had a wonderful experience at the World Dog Show and it was great to meet so many of the breeders, owners and, of course, Bergamascos from around the world.
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I would like to thank Michael Sing and Brigitte Suter for their hospitality and company at the event, congratulations to your Bergamascos. They are simply gorgeous. Pia and Jørgen as always, it was loveley to see you again and we look forward to seeing you at future shows in Europe.
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Full results and photos of all of the exhibitors can be found below.
THE DOGS
FATO DEL BOSCOANTICO BECOMES A CHAMPION
The UK has it's first ever UK resident Bergamasco to have earned a Champion title!
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Owned and loved by Paul and Jo Sandford (Boscoantico Bergamascos), Fato Del Boscoantico, or Alfie to his friends, has gained the title of Swiss Show Champion following his performance at the Grand Prix de Genève and the World Dog Show 2023 held in Genève, Switzerland on the 23rd and 24th August respectively.
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At the Grand Prix de Genève, under judge Aída Rivera (Columbia), Alfie won his Open Dog class and was awarded the Swiss CAC and the CACIB.
Alfie on the move in the ring at The Palexpo, Geneva
The Swiss Kennel Club had given a special condition for the World Dog Show 2023 whereby if your dog won the CAC from the Grand-Prix CACIB-Show (23.08.2023) and the CAC from the World Dog Show 2023 it would gain the title of Swiss Show Champion (CH (CE)).
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At the World Dog Show on 24.08.23 Alfie was again entered into the Open Dog class under the breed specialist judge Claude Ritter. Competition was tougher than the day before and he found himself up against multi-champions. Following a wonderful critique from the judge and some nerve wracking moments, Alfie was awarded first place picking up his second Swiss CAC and Reserve CACIB. The title of Swiss Show Champion thoroughly deserved!
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CH (CE) Fato Del Boscoantico
AUGUST SHOW RESULTS.... SO FAR
It's August and it's meant to be warm and Sunny; Perfect conditions for showing your Bergamascos but..... It's the UK and the weather has been terrible, wet windy and cool. Despite the weather the Bergamascos have been out in force competing in the A.V. Import Register Classes.
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We're half way through the month and we have had a couple of Championship shows to report on from the South Coast of the UK, Paignton & District Fanciers Association and Bournemouth Canine Association.
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Plenty of shows left in August - The Welsh Kennel Club Championship Show, City of Birmingham Championship, Driffield Championship show, and of course, The World Dog Show in Geneva.
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Good luck to all of the Bergamascos.
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Full results below:
Paignton & Disrict Championship Show - 4 August 2023
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Liio (Rastafellow's Omg Che Gentile) - 1st Junior Dog
Lucca (Bellezzalana Arturo) - Res. Open Dog
Gertie (Boscoantico Agrifoglia) - 2nd Open Bitch. Reserve Best Bitch.
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Bournemouth Championship Show - 29 July 2023
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Bellezzalana Bacione Biaga - 1st Special Beginners Dog/Bitch, Best Special Beginner
Liio - 2nd Junior Dog/Bitch
Bellezzalana Bacione Biaga - 3rd Junior Dog/Bitch
Lucca - 1st Open Dog, Best Dog, Best of Breed
Bellezzalana Ayla Bella - 2nd Post Graduate Bitch
Gertie - 1st Open Bitch. Best Bitch.
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Well done Lucca and the other Bergamascos. Brilliant results.
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NEWS FROM THE FLYING CIRCUS KENNEL IN NORWAY!
The Flying Circus Kennel in Norway are planning puppies for summer/Autumn 2024.
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Iceman Del Piervez x Penny (Flying Circus Polly Parrot)
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For information or to register interest visit the Flying Circus kennel page HERE
JULY UK SHOW RESULTS - MAC SEES STARS (GREEN ONES)
The summer Championship shows just keep on coming and there have been a lot fabulous results for the UK based Bergamascos.
Let's start with some wonderful news from Ireland.
Mac (Boscoantico Baci Da Vischio) travelled to Ireland with his family to compete in his first FCI Irish Kennel Club show.
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He came away with and "Excellent" grading, Best of Breed and was awarded his first Green Star. The first step in becoming an Irish Champion!
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Back at home, there have been a number of shows to Report on - Windsor Championship Show, East of England Championship Show and Leeds Championship Show. Some wonderful performances from the Bergamascos against some tough competition.
Windsor Championship Show - 30 June 2023
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Ludwig (Adonis-Ares Del Montevergine for Morrioghain) - 1st Puppy Dog
Elmo (Boscoantico Olmo) - 2nd Puppy Dog
Alfie (Fato del Boscoantico) - 1st Open Dog, Best Dog
Gemma (Ancient Eyes Gemma nel Boscoantico) - 1st Post Graduate Bitch, Reserve Best Bitch
Gertie (Boscoantico Agrifoglia) - 1st Open Bitch. Best Bitch. Best of Breed
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East of England Championship Show - 8 July 2023
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Ludwig - 1st Puppy Dog, 1st Special Beginners Dog, Best Special Beginners
Elmo - 2nd Puppy Dog
Liio (Rastafellow's Omg Che Gentile) - 2nd Junior Dog
Lucca (Bellezzalana Arturo) - 3rd Open Dog
Alfie - VHC Open Dog
Gemma - 2nd Post Graduate Bitch
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Leeds Championship Show - 29 July 2023
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Liio - 1st Post Graduate Dog
Lucca (Bellezzalana Arturo) - 3rd Open Dog
Alfie - Reserve Open Dog
Gemma - 1st Post Graduate Bitch, Reserve Best Bitch
Gertie (Boscoantico Agrifoglia) - 1st Open Bitch. Best Bitch. Best of Breed
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Newtownards & District Canine Club National Show - 29 July 2023
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Mac (Boscoantico Baci Da Vischio) - 1st Open Dog, Best Dog, Best of Breed, Green Star
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IT'S SHOWTIME - THE UK BERGAMASCOS ARE IN FINE FORM
Gareth and Mac and Blackpool Championship Show
It's the summer and the UK show scene is well under way.
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Due to the small number of Bergamascos in the UK and the fact that only a handful of them are shown, the Bergamasco does not have its own breed class at Kennel Club shows and is confined to the AV Import register.
The Import Register is for breeds that have been issued with an interim breed standard and whilst they can now compete in Group and Best in Show they do not have their own breed class. Instead they compete against other breeds who are also confined to the Register.
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For Bergamasco's this means they come up against the White Swiss Shepherd, The Hungarian Kuvasz, Picardy Sheepdog and the Pyrenean Sheepdog (Smooth faced).
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Despite this varied array of competition, the Bergamasco's do rather well! Here are the latest results
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Bath Championship Dog Show - 27 May 2023
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Gertie (Boscoantico Agrifoglia) - 2nd Open Bitch. Reserve Best Bitch
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Southern Counties Championship Show - 1 June 2023
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Gertie - 1st Open Bitch, Best Bitch, Best AV Import
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Border Union Championship Show - 18 June 2023
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Mac (Boscoantico Baci Da Vischio) - 1st Post Graduate Dog
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Blackpool Championship Show - 25 June 2023
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Liio (Rastafellow's Omg Che Gentile) - 1st Junior Dog
Mac - 1st Post Graduate Dog, Reserve Best Dog
Lucca (Bellezzalana Arturo) - 2nd Open Dog
Gertie - 1st Open Bitch, Best Bitch
A wonderful set of results - Congratulations to all of those involved.
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If you are interested in learning to show, we plan to publish a blog on the basics soon. Showing can be something both you and your Bergamasco can enjoy together and it's a great way to get breed out there and noticed.
Challenge for Best Dog
FOUR UK BERGAMASCOS VISITED DENMARK FOR THE EDS - IT WAS WORTH IT THE DRIVE!
Four UK based Bergamascos took the long drive to Herning in Denmark for the European Dog Show 2023. Two shows were being hosted over the four days, The European Dog Show 2023 and the Agria Winners Show 2023. In total there were 21 Bergamascos on display representing The UK, Germany, Italy, Finland, Sweden, Denmark and Austria. It was wonderful to meet so many of the Bergamascos who's pictures we had only ever seen on forums and social media and, of course, it was amazing to meet the owners and breeders.
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Full results can be found here and the individual results of the UK Bergamascos are below.
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A hugely successful trip with some wonderful memories.
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European Dog Show 20.05.23
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Alfie (Fato Del Boscoantico); Open Dog Class, 1st, Excellent, CK; Best Male, 2nd; CAC, CACIB, FCI European Winner 2023
Fiona (Calshair Sgur Fiona Nel Boscoantico); Open Bitch Class, 2nd, Excellent, CK; Best Female, 2nd; ResCAC, ResCACIB
Elmo (Boscoantico Olmo); Puppy Dog Class, 1st, Very Promising; Best Puppy in Breed, Future Hope of Europe 2023
Gertie (Boscoantico Agrifoglia); Open Bitch Class, 1st, Excellent, CK; Best Female, 1st; CAC, CACIB, FCI European Winner 2023, Best of Breed
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Agria Winner Show 21.05.23
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Alfie; Open Dog Class, 1st, Excellent, CK; Best Male, 2nd, CAC, ResCACIB
Fiona; Open Bitch Class, 3rd, Excellent
Elmo; Puppy Dog Class, 1st, Very Promising; Best Puppy in Breed
Gertie; Open Bitch Class, 1st, Excellent, CK; Best Female, 1st; CAC, CACIB, Agria Winner 2023, Best of Breed
BERGAMASCO SUCCESS AT THE SKC 21.05.23
On Sunday at the Scottish Kennel Club May Championship Show, there were two Bergamasco's on show in the AV Imported Breed Register (Pastoral).
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Off the back of his wonderful success at Crufts 23, Mac (Boscoantico Baci da Vischio) was being shown in the Post Graduate Dog class by his owner Gareth and was awarder first place by judge Mr T Allcock. Mac then went on to win Reserve Best Dog.
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Despite his young age, Peter (Boscoantico Betulla Bianca Del Sejati) picked up first place in the Special Beginners class and was also awarded Best Puppy under the same judge. Congratulations to Charlene, Peter's owner.
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Excellent achievements all round and great to see the Bergamasco represented in Scotland.
