It has been a long road to breed recognition with AKC. Prior to full AKC recognition, we were able to show the Bergamasco as a Foundation Stock Service breed in Miscellaneous class. In January of 2015, the Bergamasco Sheepdog became a fully recognized breed.  The AKC standard was created by Maria Andreoli. The FCI standard is the standard in Italy, the country of origin and everywhere else in the world except for the United States. 

Because we are advocates and educators, it is important that we show our dogs in AKC events. We are part of a community that wishes to support the breed in health, conformation and temperament. By bringing our dogs to shows we can educate the public and the judges about this complex breed. I served as the parent club judge educator for many years. I am available for tutoring and mentoring presently due to my many years dedicated to the breed and to AKC. Because we are a relatively new breed, it is important that we work with our AKC judges to ensure that they are familiar with the breed standard and can comfortably judge our dogs.

We have had much success in the show ring over the past few years. We are happy to see Bergamascos gaining recognition and now competing with better known breeds. We support our families who are interested in showing their dogs and are happy to help them get started in showing as a family activity. We love mentoring those who are new to the breed and the show world and are committed to supporting the breed in this way.