Bearded Collie Breed Information
Breed Group: Herding
Weight: 45-55 lbs
Height: Male: 21-22; Female: 20-21 inches
Color(s): any shade of gray or chocolate. White may appear as a blaze, or on tail tip, feet, and chest. Tan points may also occur.
Overview
This breed is commonly referred to as the "Beardie". They are a medium-sized agile herding dog that is an ancestor of the Old English Sheepdog. Originating in Scotland, this breed was used for centuries to herd flocks of sheep and cattle. They were developed to be independent workers and made decisions concerning their charges without human guidance. The Bearded Collie nearly disappeared in the early part of the 20th century, but were saved from extinction in 1944. They are still fairly rare in the United States today, but their popularity is growing.
Character
The Bearded Collie is hardy and active. This unspoiled and natural breed has strength, is a hard worker, and makes a devoted companion. They possess self-confidence and are never shy or aggressive. The Bearded Collie is bouncy, bright, reliable, and trustworthy. They are suited equally for being a household pet, as well as working in any weather condition on any terrain.
Temperament
An enthusiastic, affectionate, and loving breed, the Bearded Collie thrives on family, fun, and being given a task to perform. They are sweet and easy-going, as well as bold and rowdy. This breed is excellent with children and other family pets. They do not do well if left alone for extended periods of time with nothing to do. Since they are herding dogs, this breed may attempt to perform the task with everyone and everything that moves. The Bearded Collie is not an excessive barker, but will bark to announce visitors, show their excitement, or if they are bored.
Care
The Bearded Collie requires daily brushing to prevent tangles and mats. The coat must be misted with a conditioning spray prior to brushing. Professional clipping can be done every two months. Dry shampooing or bathing should be done as needed. This breed is prone to allergies, hip dysplasia, eye problems, hypothyroidism, and auto-immune disease.
Coat
The Bearded Collie has a shaggy coat that covers the entire body, even under the chin. The weatherproof outer coat is long and dense. The under coat is soft and thick. Their coat color changes several times over their life-span. The Bearded Collie puppies are generally born black, brown, blue, or fawn. The puppy coat then fades to cream or light gray. Once they reach maturity they darken again to their adult coat of brown,
fawn, blue, or black. Bearded Collies are average shedders.
Training
As independent thinkers, the Bearded Collie will occasionally decide that they know best. Some are easier to housetrain than others. This breed is highly trainable for various activities. Obedience training is a must as they have a tendency to be headstrong. They excel in tracking, agility, herding, performing tricks, and competitive obedience. They respond best to firm, fair, consistent, and loving methods of training.
Activity
A highly active breed, the Bearded Collie requires an inordinate amount of exercise. They are not recommended for apartment dwelling, as they prefer to have free run. Fairly active indoors, they do best with a large yard or on a farm. Bearded Collies do not like to be confined and enjoy being outdoors with their family playing or performing a task.