Last Updated on October 31, 2021 by Pets Feed
The Bearded Collie, or simply Beardie, is a former shepherd of Great Britain sweet and cheerful. It is a breed of dog often confused with the Old English Sheepdog, but it does not resemble it more than a certain physical resemblance to its coat. The truth is that the Bearded Collie, has a very old and clean history. So much so that it is difficult to determine its specific origin over time.
It is very important to understand that before adopting a bearded collie, all these aspects must be taken into account to avoid abandonment, and the Bearded Collie is not a dog suitable for any family. It needs people who are committed to his lifestyle and needs to be happy with him.
If you are thinking of adopting this dog, it will be very practical to review its characteristics and the care it needs, especially those related to company and physical exercise. Read on and find out everything you need to know about the Bearded Collie or Beardie, below in this ‘ Pets Feed ‘ Breed sheet:
Origin
The bearded collie, or beardie, was created in Scotland from local sheep dogs, including Bobtail, with a possible influx of genes from the Polish Plains Shepherd and Komondor.
Originally, there were probably two types of bearded collies: a smaller shepherd with lighter bones and a stronger, thicker dog with a totally black Lowland fur.
It is thought that the modern bearded collie is a combination of these two types of sheepdogs. “Collie” is a Scottish term meaning “sheepdog”.
Note! Most likely, Old English Shepherd Dogs also took part in the breeding work. It is known that both breed groups lived on the same territory, and the early representatives of the Scottish Shepherd Dogs are very much reminiscent of the hybrids of the two breeds listed above.
Bearded Collie photos
Physical characteristics of the Bearded Collie
The Bearded Collie is a medium-sized dog, like most sheepdogs. He is strong and thin, and has less muscle mass than what appears on his dense coat. It is an agile dog breed of great strength, slightly longer than tall, and capable of performing all kinds of activities, including those that require greater physical effort.
In addition to its coat, the most striking thing about this breed is the way it maintains its proportions throughout the body, including the head and the limbs, which of the Bearded Collie a dog with an impeccable plant both in motion and at rest. Its head is square and the muzzle is not excessively prominent. His eyes, when visible, are almond shaped and quite distant, which gives him an expression of intelligence and to be always alert.
The ears of the Bearded Collie are medium in size and fall on either side of the head, although they are usually lost in the coat. Its nose is large and striking, and is generally the same color as the animal’s coat. Plus, it has a long, low-insertion tail that barely lifts even when you’re on the go.
Its movement is also balanced, uniform and almost unique among all breeds of dogs. Trotting, it is a very elegant dog with a fluid movement, which manages to turn all eyes towards it when it passes.
Note! Bearded collie dogs have extremely thin hearing, so they can inadequately respond to loud and harsh sounds (fireworks, thunder, vacuum cleaner, etc.). It will take competent and timely socialization for the pet to take all this more calmly.
Bearded Collie size
The Bearded Collie is a medium-sized dog, perfect for its original purpose, and also perfect for being the best pet of any type of family. The average size of a male is generally between 53 and 56 centimeters, and that of a female between 51 and 53 centimeters.
In terms of weight, these dogs typically weigh between 16 and 25 pounds, although males tend to be considerably larger in general than females.
Coat
The coat of these dogs is very special and striking, not only because of its length and density, but because it has a unique characteristic, that is to say that it can change color over the time, and many times.
In addition, it comes in two layers, a soft and protective inner layer and a long, solid, hard and curly outer layer. This type of coat requires continuous and dedicated care so that they do not form knots or lose their natural beauty. The most common color in specimens of the Bearded Collie dog is gray in any shade, although it is also possible to find reddish, black, brown or sandy specimens, and in each of them white patches are allowed.
Note! A characteristic individual breed feature of birdie is the fact that all puppies are born dark. Gradually, the coat lightens and only closer to three years does it acquire its final shade.
Personality and behavior of the Bearded Collie
The Bearded Collie’s temperament is generally very calm and balanced, as long as his needs are met and he is offered the possibility of leading an active and stimulating life both physically and mentally.
Due to their origin as shepherds, these dogs are very active and have a large amount of energy contained, so they are only recommended for families who want to spend a lot of time and quality activities. The nature of these animals is very sociable and they tend to get along well with others and with other animals if they receive an adequate education from the young.
They are also dogs very suitable for families with playful children, because they tend to become tireless playmates, who will always be ready to participate in any adventure with the little ones, and who can control their energy with them. whenever children treat them with respect.
On the other hand, the Bearded Collie can be somewhat independent at times, but it is also affectionate and sensitive, so it needs more affection than it seems at first glance. You require a lot of attention and if you don’t provide all of that attention, you can develop destructive behaviors indoors, especially if you are alone for too long.
The bearded collie is an awake breed, eager to learn and who likes to be with people. They are friendly dogs who like to feel involved in all aspects of family life and get along well with other dogs and pets. These dogs welcome strangers with enthusiasm and many barks, in general it will be a warm welcome.
Health
Like many breeds, the bearded collie can suffer from dysplasia of the hip and elbow (joint diseases that can be painful and lead to mobility problems) and hereditary eye disorders.
Therefore, an examination of the hip and eyes is important before devoting the dog to reproduction.
Basic care
The bearded collie does not require complex grooming, but it should be regular and take a lot of time.
Thorough brushing once or twice a week will help maintain good condition, prevent tangling and reduce hair loss. It is recommended to comb the Bearded Collie dog with conditioner or just slightly dampening the hair with a spray bottle. Up to 2 years old, the Bearded Collie will have to be comb out more often: 1-2 times a week. For an adult dog, every 2 or even 3 weeks. The procedure takes about 2 hours.
Ears need to be cleaned regularly. In addition, it is recommended to pluck the hair inside the auricle.
The eyes are examined daily. If necessary, rub and remove the hairs that cling to the cornea.
In winter, snow can adhere between the toes and pads, which turns into ice packs and injures the paw. To avoid this, the “brushes” on the paws are cut.
They monitor the length and condition of the claws, trim them as they grow.
After walks, the fur of the Bearded Collie is inspected for dirt, leaves, twigs, traces of stake under the tail, etc. All unnecessary things need to be selected or combed out.
Bathing a bearded collie is often not recommended. Street dogs should be washed 2-3 times a year or less. Households have to be bathed more often. In this case, it is important to choose the right shampoo.
Many owners of bearded collies prefer to cut the coat of their pets. This greatly facilitates the care of the dog, but does not exclude it. It is worth noting that too short a haircut is not recommended, such a coat will not be able to protect the dog from frost in winter, and from overheating in summer.
Exercise
The bearded collie is an active dog that needs at least an hour of daily exercise. He likes to play with frisbee or football and he is known to be good at agility, obedience and even tracking.
Although they are animals that adapt well to life anywhere, even small apartments, they also require a high level of activity so as not to develop negative behaviors. Daily walks are not enough to use up his energy, and he will often need other activities that involve physical and mental challenges to stimulate them properly.
On the other hand, and despite all this need for exercise, they should not always live outside, even less alone, because they are very attached to their family who need to feel their love constantly.
Feeding
How to feed a Bearded Collie- natural food or drying? Each type of food has its own adherents and opponents.
The basis of natural nutrition of a Bearded Collie dog is meat products. They should make up 30% of the daily diet. It can be lean beef, offal.
Once a week, meat is replaced with low-fat marine fish: cod, hake, pollock. Be sure to include fresh and boiled vegetables and fruits in the diet.
Porridge made from various types of cereals, except semolina, are useful. Fermented milk products are essential for replenishing calcium in the body.
A boiled chicken egg is added to the Bearded Collie food twice a week.
With natural nutrition, the likelihood of a lack of vitamins and minerals is high. To avoid this, a course of vitamin therapy is carried out once every three months.
Good food cannot be cheap. To feed the Bearded Collie, we purchase super premium food.
Training and education
When training a Bearded Collie, usually there are no special problems. He is smart, intelligent, quickly assimilate and remember information.
But often their independent character can be manifested. To prevent this from happening, a person with a firm and patient character should be engaged in training. It is better to do this in a relaxed manner and atmosphere, not forgetting the rewards in the form of delicacies and praise.
Bearded Collie Dog Breed Highlights
Positive points
- The bearded collie is affectionate by nature.
- It is very sociable and gets along with everyone.
- This dog is adaptable and adapt to most lifestyles.
- It is cheerful and stays so good in its senior years.
- The bearded collie is a good pet and behaves well with children
- It is an excellent watchdog and quick to alert its owners of what is going on around.
Negative points
- The bearded collie likes to be busy being active and energetic by nature.
- It requires a lot of maintenance on the grooming front.
- It loses a lot of hair throughout the year but especially in spring and autumn.
- It can be destructive around the house and has a low boredom.
- It suffers from separation anxiety when left alone.
- It is not the best choice for new homeowners as it can be willful and stubborn, therefore more difficult to train.
- The bearded collie likes to hunt anything that moves, including bicycles, joggers and other animals.
- This dog develops the “shaggy dog syndrome” which means a lot of things and debris cling to the dog’s coat.
Bearded Collie fun facts
- The characteristic that gives its name to the breed is the length of the hair on its jaw and cheeks, forming a kind of beard very recognizable in these animals which, in its name, are “bearded”. On the other hand, “collie” is the word used in Scotland to refer to all sheepdogs. So, there are several breeds that have it in their name.
- It is difficult to know the adult color of a bearded collie puppy because they are usually born dark and can change the color of their fur considerably as they grow. The greatest change occurs between 18 months and the adult stage, although they do not reach their final color until after about four years.
- These dogs have also appeared in some representations of popular culture, such as television series. In addition, some famous people, like actor Tim Allen, owned or owned a copy of this breed.
- Bearded Collie is the official modern name of the breed, obtained in 1915. Since 1570, it has changed several times. The dogs were named by different names: Traditional, English, Farm and Working Collie.
- Initially, dogs belonged to a shepherd breed. Subsequently, the bearded collie acquired new professions – rescuers, guards, guides.
- The first club for bearded collie lovers appeared in Edinburgh in 1912. The organization developed rapidly and successfully. But during the war, the condition of the breed deteriorated sharply and there were few representatives of the collie left.
If you think the bearded collie is the best dog for you and your lifestyle, the next step is to find an experienced breeder with good references in this breed of dog. Only then will you have all the health guarantees for the puppy and will be able to receive first-hand information on its care and temperament.
The Bearded Collie is a very special breed, which also has special needs, so you need to make sure that you can fulfill them so that you and your new partner can create the best relationship.
