The Bearded Collie dog breed was established in Scotland to herd sheep and calves in any weather or terrain. They perform now as superb family pets, show dogs, working sheepdogs, or even all three.
Because of their enthusiasm and mobility Bearded Collies are well matched to participate in manners, rally, agility, and other canine sports. They’re incredibly attentive and can even make wonderful pets for inexperienced dog parents. They do, however, need a decent amount of exercise and would like a fenced-in yard to run around in. And make sure the fence is secure because these pups can be superb escape artists! As a best buddy that can keep you on your toes, this breed may be just what you're searching for.
See below an entire list of dog breed traits and facts about Bearded Collies.
Highlights
- When left alone for long periods of time, bears develop a barking habit that can become a nuisance.
- Beardies need at least an hour of exercise a day in a gated area where they can run about freely.
- Obedience training is essential for beagles because of their tendency to be stubborn. The sooner you begin, the better!
- Bearded Collies are not guard dogs, but they will bark to alert you when someone is near.
- A bored Beardie makes a great fugitive!
- It is necessary to brush the Bearded Collie's coat every week, especially during the annual shedding season.
- A monthly heartworm preventive can cause an allergic reaction in some Beardies. Whether or not a daily preventative is preferable should be discussed with your pet's doctor.
- It's best to avoid backyard breeding and puppy mills in order to ensure that your dog is healthy and happy. To ensure that her breeding dogs are free of genetic disorders that they could pass on to the puppies and have sound temperaments, find a reliable breeder who performs genetic testing on her dogs.
Characteristics
Social Appearance
Adaptability
A little dog isn't inherently better for an apartment than a larger one, contrary to popular opinion. Many tiny dogs have too much energy and are too yappy to live in an apartment building. An apartment dog's best attributes include being quiet, low energy, somewhat peaceful indoors, and respectful to the other inhabitants. You may also get a great dog kennel here to give your pet a little more privacy in your home.
Sensitivity Level
The faintest whiff of filth is enough to make some dogs flee, but this isn't true for all canines. When it comes to handling loud noises, an aggressive owner, and an unpredictability in their routine, "easygoing," "tolerant," and "resilient" dogs are more equipped. When it comes to your personal life, do you host a lot of parties, have small children, or otherwise lead a frantic existence? It's best to go with an animal that isn't too delicate.
Intensity
As long as you don't instruct them not to strain on the leash, you'll find that vigorous dogs conduct all of their activities with tremendous vigour: they eat and drink with large mouthfuls, and even strain on the leash (unless you teach them not to). When it comes to manners, these dynamos require extensive training and may not be the greatest choice for a family with children or someone who is older or feeble. On the other hand, a dog with poor vitality adopts a more reserved demeanor.
Potential for Playfulness
There are certain dogs that are always looking for a game, while there are others that are more stoic and reserved. Think about how many games of fetch or tag your dog will need to play each day, as well as if you have children or other canines who can act as playmates for it.
Personality Appearance
Intelligence
Sheep herder dogs, for example, need to exercise their bodies in the same way that working dogs, such as those trained for jobs requiring judgement and intellect, such as police dogs, need. If they do not receive enough cerebral stimulation, they may resort to self-employment such as digging and chewing. It's a great way to give a dog a cerebral workout through activities like agility and search and rescue.
Energy Level
High-energy dogs are always ready to take action. Because they were initially bred for a specific purpose, such as retrieving game for hunters or herding animals, they have the stamina to put in a long day's work. Animals like this need a lot of exercise and mental stimulation, and they're more likely to run around, leap, and investigate any new sights or smells they come across.
If your dog isn't very energetic, resting is their favourite mode of entertainment. You should consider your own level of activity and lifestyle before deciding on a dog, and if you find a playful, energetic dog exhilarating or frustrating.
Easy To Train
Easy-to-teach dogs are more competent at learning fast and easy how to associate a stimulus (such the phrase "sit") with an action (such as sitting) and a reward (such as a treat). Other dogs require more time, patience, and repetition to learn.
You'll need to utilize incentives and games to get your dog excited about training because many breeds are intelligent but have a "What's in it for me?" training mentality.
Family Affection Level
Affectionate With Family
There are certain breeds that remain distant and independent, while others form deep bonds with one individual and are uninterested in others; while still others demonstrate their love for the entire family. There are several factors that contribute to a dog's ability to create a close link with a human, not only the type of breed.
Kid-Friendly
Having a blasé attitude about screaming, running youngsters, and being gentle with children are all characteristics of a dog that is good with children. Some of the names on the list may come as a shock to you: Fierce-looking Both Boxers and American Staffordshire Terriers are regarded as family dogs (which are considered Pit Bulls). Chihuahuas, being little, sensitive, and prone to snapping, aren't always the most family-friendly of dogs.
Dog Friendly
Dog friendship and human friendship are two completely different things. People-friendly dogs can be aggressive or domineering against their canine counterparts. Some dogs would rather play than fight, and yet others would flee in terror. It's not just a genetic issue. Puppies who were raised in close proximity to their littermates and mother for at least the first six to eight weeks of their lives are more likely to develop good social skills.
Physical Appearance
Amount of Shedding
In order to keep a dog in the house, you'll have to cope with dog hair all over your clothes and in your house. However, the amount of shedding varies greatly among dog breeds. It's possible for dogs to shed all year long or only a few times a year, and it's also possible for certain dogs to shed both ways or very little. If you're a neat freak, go for a breed that doesn't shed much, or adjust your standards. Keeping your home a little cleaner is easy with the help of a good deshedding device.
Drooling Potential
Drool-prone dogs may leave large, wet slobber stains on your clothing and slobber ropes down your arm when they come over to say hello to you. As long as you don't mind a bit of drool, go for it; but if you're more concerned about cleanliness, you may want to look for a dog with an acceptable grade for the amount of saliva it produces.
Easy To Groom
Some dogs may be brushed and go, while others need to be bathed, clipped, and otherwise groomed on a regular basis in order to maintain their health and cleanliness. Grooming a dog that requires a lot of time and patience may not be in your best interest if you do not have the time or the money to do so.
Exercise Needs
Certain types of dogs can get plenty of exercise just by going for a walk in their neighbourhood. Herdsmen and hunters, in particular, must engage in frequent, strenuous activity as part of their training regimens.
If these breeds don't get enough exercise, their pent-up energy may manifest itself in undesired behaviours like barking, chewing, and digging. People who enjoy spending time outside or who want to train their dog for a high-intensity canine sport like agility should consider getting a dog that needs a lot of exercise.
Average sizes and life expectancy of the breed
Height
20 to 22 inches tall at the shoulder
Weight
45 to 55 pounds
Life Span
12 to 14 years
History
There's a good chance the Bearded Collie descended from the Magyar Komondor or Lowland Polish Sheepdog of central Europe. Two Lowland Polish Sheepdogs were imported to Scotland by Polish traders in 1514, according to documents. Despite the fact that bearded collies have been shown in art dating back to the eighteenth century, there is no hard evidence of their existence until the early nineteenth century.
In the Scottish mists, these canines worked tirelessly as herders and drivers of sheep and cattle over rocky terrain. After the Victorian era, the breed became popular as a show dog in Scotland, where it had long been a herding dog. Two distinct breeds, the Border strain, which was brown and white, and the Highland strain, which was grey and white, have interbred and united into one.
After the First World War, the Beardie was reintroduced as a working dog. It was difficult for outsiders to get one of these canines from their shepherd owners because of their worth as herding dogs. Some breeders who wanted to show Beardies in England and the United States were able to get their hands on some of the dogs. AKC approval of the breed was granted in 1977. Because of their ability to herd, the bearded dragons have become attractive pets, but are more popular as competitors in herding trials than working dogs.
Personality and Temperament
For their quick-wittedness and vivacity, bearded collies are well renowned. They have a lot of energy, are intelligent, and can be obstinate or self-reliant. There's a lot of athleticism and knowledge crammed into one package that necessitates a lot of training. It is not uncommon for them to get along well with other dogs and be friendly to the point of being overly so.
Agility and herding are two of the dog activities in which they excel, and they like it. If bearded collies don't get enough activity and attention, they can develop certain negative habits, just like most bright, active dogs. Barking, digging, and gnawing are all examples of unwelcome dog behaviours. Small children may find them overly energetic, and they may nip at their heels as if they were sheep.
Playful and enthusiastic, the bearded Beardie is a joy to be around. In spite of its intelligence, this dog has an uncanny ability to find the funny side of any situation. When playing, beardies can be a bit rowdy and try to herd small children.
Care
The Bearded Collie's exercise and maintenance requirements are high because it was bred to work in cold, harsh areas (especially for first-time dog owners). To raise a well-behaved Bearded Collie dog, the dog's owners must be prepared for constant and on-going training to keep the dog happy and well-behaved.
Health
However, bearded collies, like all dog breeds, have their own set of health issues. If you're planning on purchasing or living with a bearded dragon, you should be aware of these ailments.
Allergies
Dogs frequently suffer from allergies. When a dog has an allergy to a particular food, the cause can be found and treated by removing the offending item from the dog's diet for a while. An allergic reaction to something that comes into contact with the dog, such as bedding, flea powder, or dog shampoo, is known as contact dermatitis. Identifying and eliminating the source of an allergy is the first step in treatment. Allergens in the air, such as pollen, dust, and mildew, are the source of inhalant allergies in humans. The severity of an inhalant allergy dictates the type of treatment that should be prescribed. Inhalant allergies can cause ear infections as a secondary effect.
Hip Dysplasia
The thigh bone does not fit tightly into the hip joint due to a hereditary issue. The pain and lameness of one or both of a dog's rear legs can indicate a condition known as hip dysplasia. Arthritis may occur as the dog ages. Orthopedic Foundation for Animals or the University of Pennsylvania Hip Improvement Program provide X-ray screening for hip dysplasia (PennHIP).
Having hip dysplasia doesn't mean that a dog should be bred. Ask the breeder for documentation that the parents of the puppy have been checked for hip dysplasia and are free of any issues before purchasing one. Hip dysplasia is inherited, but it can also be triggered by external factors, such as rapid development from a high-calorie diet or injuries experienced by jumping or falling on slick floors.
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid produces an unusually low amount of hormone. Infertility might be a mild indication of the condition. Overweight, mental dullness, drooping eyes, low vitality, and erratic heat cycles are some of the more visible symptoms. The dog's coat gets harsh and brittle and begins to fall out, while its skin becomes tough and black. Chronic hypothyroidism can be managed with long-term administration of a daily medicine. A dog that receives daily thyroid medication can enjoy a long and healthy lifespan.
PRA
The loss of photoreceptors at the back of the eye eventually results in blindness as a result of this degenerative eye illness. Years before the dog exhibits any evidence of blindness, PRA can be detected. Fortunately, dogs are able to use their other senses to adjust for blindness, and a blind dog can lead a normal and fulfilling life. Just don't get into the habit of moving things around. The eyes of reputable breeders are examined by a veterinary ophthalmologist every year, and they do not breed dogs with this condition.
Pupillary Membrane (PPM)
There are strands of eye tissue known as Persistent Pupillary Membranes that are remnants of the foetal membrane that nourished the eyes before birth. By the time a puppy is 4 or 5 weeks old, they're usually gone, but they can still be found. There are a number of places where these strands can be found in the eye, including the iris, the lens, and the cornea. It's common for the strands to break down around 8 weeks of age in most dogs. It is possible to develop cataracts or corneal opacities if the strands do not degrade. Breaking them down with eye drops provided by your veterinarian is possible.
Recommended Health Tests
- Hip Evaluation
- Ophthalmologist Evaluation
- Thyroid Evaluation
Nutrition
Every day, feed your Bearded Collie 1.5 to 2 cups of high-quality dog food. There are a variety of nutrient needs for these dogs depending on their age and exercise level, as well as their metabolism.
Overfeeding and under-exercising can lead to obesity in Bearded Collies, just as they can in any other dog breed. When in doubt about how much or what food to feed your Bearded Collie, see your veterinarian for advice on a balanced diet. Exceptionally energetic dogs may benefit from an occasional extra treat, but this should be done sparingly.
Grooming
Bearded Collies require roughly 30 minutes of weekly brushing with a bristle or pin brush because of their long, thick, shaggy coats and softer undercoat. Routine grooming will maintain your Beardie's coat bright and healthy by preventing tangles and mats. To remove tangles, use a detangling spray, then use the owner's fingers to gently comb through the hair. Your dog's coat and skin may be damaged or worsened if you solely use a brush for tangle removal.
For two to four weeks per year, Bearded Collies shed a lot, therefore you should definitely increase the amount of time you spend brushing them. This can help keep the house free of stray fur.
Once a week, check your Bearded Collie's ears for dirt and debris and gently clean them with an ear solution and a cotton pad. Cotton swabs should be avoided because they can harm the sensitive components of the inner ear. Consult your veterinarian right away if you notice that your Beardie's ears are excessively unclean, red, inflamed, or smell odd. This could be an indication of an ear infection.
Exercise
Despite their small appearance, bearded collies are among the most intelligent breeds in the world, and they're known for their intelligence. They're athletic and muscular, just as other working breeds. Walking, running, biking, hiking, agility training, and other high-intensity activities are all acceptable forms of daily exercise for pets whose owners cannot spare more than an hour or two every day.
Although a Bearded Collie may be happy living in an apartment, this breed is best suited for a single-family home with a large yard to run around. Bearded Collie dogs require a lot of attention, therefore families with busy schedules or those who are frequently away from home may not be the greatest fit.
Training
Obedience training for Bearded Collies is necessary because they are exceptionally intelligent and energetic dogs. When a puppy is eight weeks old, he or she is ready to begin basic training. Because Bearded Collies have independent spirits and can be stubborn, training them early on is essential. These classes are meant to keep your dog's mind active. Treats and playtime might entice your Beardie to stay active and interested.
People that live in busy households and have a lot of outside area will find this breed excellent. Children should be taught how to approach and manage bearded collies, which are ideal playmates for high-energy children. Beardies, like any other breed, should never be left unattended when being played with by children.
Children and Other Pets
bursting with life, vigour, and wit, Children enjoy playing with bears. In order to avoid any biting or ear- or tail-pulling on either the part of the dog or the child, it is imperative that youngsters be taught how to approach and touch dogs. Your youngster should be taught not to disturb a sleeping or eating dog, or to attempt to take away the dog's food. A dog should never be left alone with a child, no matter how old they are.
If socialised early, bearded dragons get along well with other canines and felines, however they can be territorial of their toys. "It's mine, all mine," is their adage. The greatest companions for them are cats who aren't afraid to stand their ground and engage in a game of chase.
Puppies
While caring for a bearded collie puppy is quite similar to caring for an adult bearded collie, you must exercise extreme caution when feeding the puppy dogs.
About twice a day, people need to be fed. It's a little more complicated for bearded collie puppies because they can't digest too much food in one sitting.
Dog breeds related to Bearded Collies
The bearded collie shares many traits with the following dogs:
Australian Cattle Dog
Like the bearded collie, these canines are medium-sized herding dogs and are similar in appearance. They are also highly intelligent and capable of managing their own herds of cattle.
Border collie
Herding sheep and cattle is a specialty for these dogs, who excel at helping humans. Like the bearded collie, they are very clever and athletic dogs who take part in a wide range of dog sports.
Australian Shepherd
A prevalent breed in the United States, these are medium-sized dogs. Highly clever, they are excellent family and herding dogs..
