Bearded Collie Dog Breed Information

The Bearded Collie is a medium sized dog animated breed, popular for its bounces, playful and lively nature and its “Beardie bounce” represents its carefree, happy attitude towards the world. This breed originated in Scotland to herd cattle and sheep in any kind of terrain or weather. Today, they are functioning as an exceptional family companions, working sheepdogs, show dogs or even all of them. Because of its quickness and energy, ther are perfect for competing in agility, rally, obedience and other dog sports. Know more about this dog….

Star Rating:

Characteristics	Stars (based on 5)
Adaptability
Trainability
Health
All-round friendliness
Exercise Needs
Apartment friendly
Affection level
Grooming

Interesting facts about Bearded Collie dogs:

• It is the official dog of the shepherds in Scotland.
• Bearded collies were originally bred as working dogs and they are able to stand harshest conditions.
• They were first recongnised in 1976 by AKC.
• It is estimated that eighty five percent of the dogs visit a veterinarian in a year.
• The average cost of owning this breed is more than US$ 13000 over its life time.

Is Bearded Collie Dog right breed for you?

More information on the Bearded Collie Dog:

History:

Originating in 1500S in Britain, the Bearded Collie is country’s one of the oldest herding breeds. This breed was formed when a Polish sea captain traded with a Scottish shepherd, a Polish sheepdog which was bred with other local herding dogs, and then produced the bearded collie herding dogs. Since the very beginning, Bearded collies have been an all rounder farm dogs, working on live stock and guarding as an alarm bark. For centuries, these dogs were being used as herding dogs in Scotland. They were also known as “ Highland sheepdog”, “ Highland Collie”, and “Hairy Collie”. They were great herding sheeps, workers and cattle for the local shepherds. Their name includes the word “Bearded” because of the long hair that grows on their chin that makes the hair look like its beard, and “Collie” means a herding dog in Scottish language. At present, many of the cute dogs in the Disney films and some commercials are the bearded collies. They are extremely intelligent and fun loving dogs.

Description:

The Bearded Collie is a medium sized, lean, long dog, with a strong athletic body, which forms an impression of both agility and strength. They have wide, large, expressive eyes, low tail and broad head. Its coat can be of various shades such as gray, blue, black or brown, with white markings on feet, head and chest. Sometimes even tan points are visible. They are known for changing their colors.

Personality

A Bearded Collie is confident, smart, lively and resourceful. Its bouncy and bubbly personality makes it a fun filled animal. As far as its training is concerned it can act like an independent thinker who prefers to follow his own way. Puppies having good temperament are playful and curious, and are happily willing to be approached and held by different people.

Beardies are usually boisterous playmates for children who like outdoor exercises and activities in all kinds of weather. They have a sense of humour which makes their presence enjoyable.

Whenever you are choosing a Bearded Collie puppy, keep in mid that its temperament is affected by a variety of factors, such as socialization and heredity. Further, the temperament varies from dog to dog. Some of the Beardies are quiet, reserved but sweet, while others are boisterous, enthusiastic and loud. Communicate to the breeder about your preferences, and the breeder will help you in finding a puppy that suits your lifestyle and personality.

Health

Bearded Collie dogs are generally a healthy breed, but just like other dogs, they are prone to suffer from various health issues and problems. Every Beardie will not suffer from one or all of these diseases, but if you are purchasing one then you need to know about these diseases-

Hip Dysplasia

This is a heredity condition in which the dog’s thighbone does not fit into the hip joint. Some dogs might experience lameness or pain in the legs. Usually, there are no signs of pain or discomfort during hip dysplasia. Ask your breeder about the proof that the dog that you are buying is free from the disease.

Allergies

Bearded Collie might also suffer from many allergies, which is a common ailment in the dogs. Allergies to some food items, contact allergies caused by flea powders, bedding, chemicals, dog shampoos etc, ear infections can occur in a Beardie.

Hypothyroidism

When a thyroid gland produces low levels of hormones, it is known as Hypothyroidism. It leads to infertility. The fur becomes brittle and coarse and starts falling out, and the skin becomes dark and tough. Its medication should continue through out its life.

Care:

The Beardie is an indoor as well as an outdoor dog. He loves to stay inside with his people as well as wants to have access to a medium sized yard so that he can run, play and bounce there. It is not at all suitable for an apartment life. They prefer staying with their family, whether indoors or outdoors. They are satisfied with short playful sessions.

Obedience training is very essential for this breed to incorporate discipline in the dog’s life. They respond to only positive reinforcement such as praise, play and food rewards. The Beardies never learn through harsh or abusive conditions. Their caring should be started as early as possible to get excellent results.

Feeding:

1.5 to 2 cups of very high quality food is recommended for Bearded Collies per day, which should be appropriately divided into two meals a day. But puppies should be given three to four cups of food daily. They should be fed according to their build, size, age, activity levels and metabolism.

Grooming:

The Beardies require daily brushing for their long and shaggy coat to removes mats and tangles and decrease shedding. The coat should be misted lightly before you begin brushing your dog. You need to pay special attention towards your puppy when it is shedding. Paws, ears, and eyes should be checked regularly. Always bathe or dry shampoo whenever necessary. Locate for ticks through its thick coat regularly, to maintain its cleanliness.

Other essential daily grooming needs include nail care and dental hygiene. Your Beardie’s teeth should be brushed at least 2- 3 times in a week to make it free from tartar buildup as well as lurking bacteria inside the mouth. To prevent bad breath and gum diseases, daily brushing should be done. Nails must be trimmed to keep them short. Trim them either weekly or monthly, depending on the needs of your dog. Short trimmed nails keep them in good condition. Your grooming part should also include a complete check up of sores, rashes, redness, tenderness, infections, any sign of inflammation on the nose, eyes, mouth or skin. Ears and eyes should be clean.

A careful weekly examination of your dog will help you in locating any potential health issues that might arise in future.