We had an absolutely heart-warming time at our most recent Puppy Yoga session featuring Bergamasco puppies - and we just have to share the highlights! Held at our cosy home spot (thanks to Centred Ground) in Bowden, the event was perfectly positioned just a short walk from local favourites like Plant 4 Bowden and Plant 3 Bowden.
From 54 Gibson Street, Bowden SA 5007, it’s approximately 420 metres (around a 5-minute walk) to Plant 4 Bowden at 5 Third Street, Bowden - making our venue super easy to reach for guests who wanted a stroll with pups and maybe a coffee or bite at one of the Plant 4 vendors afterwards.
🧘 Puppy Yoga Recap: Shy Starts, Big Personalities
Our Bergamasco puppies started off a little shy during the first class - and that was absolutely fine! We’re puppy-led here, so we simply allowed them to explore the room at their own pace, encouraging gentle socialisation without any pressure. 🐶
By the time the second class rolled around, these pups had blossomed beautifully! Their true personalities began to shine: playful zoomies, kisses for everyone, and non-stop happy wobbling tails all around. It was such a joy to witness their confidence grow - and to share that moment with everyone who came along. 💕✨
🐕 All About the Bergamasco
The Bergamasco Shepherd is a fascinating and unique breed with a rich history and truly distinctive appearance. Originating in the Italian Alps near Bergamo, these dogs were historically used as herding companions, navigating rough terrain and protecting flocks with calm intelligence. (Wikipedia)
🧥 The One-of-a-Kind Coat
One of the Bergamasco’s most remarkable features is its coat. Rather than traditional fur, their hair naturally forms flat, felt-like mats, called flocks, as the dog matures. These mats:
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Are made up of three types of hair, which create a dense, protective layer.
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Help protect the dog from cold weather, heat and even bugs — a legacy from their days working in the mountains.
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Are low-shedding and don’t require daily brushing once they form.
Interestingly, Bergamascos are often considered hypoallergenic, meaning many people who react to other dogs may have fewer issues with them — though all dogs can affect people differently.
🧠 Temperament and Personality
Bergamascos are known for being:
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Intelligent and thoughtful, with a strong instinct to think things through rather than just obey.
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Calm and loyal companions who bond deeply with their people.
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Alert and observant, but not aggressive, which makes them great family dogs with early socialisation.
While they can be somewhat reserved at first, once they trust you, they’re affectionate, playful, and full of character — just like the pups we saw at Puppy Yoga!
🐶 Fun Bergamasco Facts
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Bergamascos have been around for centuries as working dogs in the Italian Alps.
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Their coat reaches full “flock” formation by about 2 years of age, and after that, grooming is surprisingly easy.
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They’re generally medium-large in size, balanced and sturdy — a physical reflection of their working dog heritage.
📅 Join Us Next Time!
We’re so grateful to everyone who came along, supported this event, and showed these beautiful Bergamasco puppies love and patience. A BIG thank you to the incredible Heather for bringin along her outstanding litter! If you missed out, don’t worry - there’s always a next time!
Stay tuned for details on upcoming Puppy Yoga sessions, more furry features, and fun community-centred events right here in Bowden. 🐶💛
