Bearded Collie

The Bearded Collie is a lively, charming dog that is inherently good-natured, stable, and reliable. This breed gets along with children and is very loyal to its family. They tend not to suffer separation. But, like any dog, it should not be left alone for long periods.

Breed Photos

Origin History

The Bearded Collie is a medium-sized breed that belongs to the herding group. It is also known as a mountain collie or more affectionately as birdy. The species is believed to have been bred in the 1500s. At that time, these dogs were crossed with Scottish shepherd dogs. Since then, the Bearded Collie has been widely used to herd sheep and cattle throughout Scotland. The standard breed of the modern Collie was developed in the early 20th century.

Today, despite its herding roots, this breed is more often kept as a pet. The Bearded Collie is perceived as a dog for work. It is successful in various trials and modern dog sports such as flyball.

Appearance

The Bearded Collie has many different colors and coat combinations. It is a medium-sized breed that is approximately 51-56 cm tall. Collie bitches are naturally slightly smaller than male dogs. Their weight ranges from 18 to 28 kilograms. The breeds have a muscular body, with a medium-length neck that leads to pointed shoulders. They have straight front limbs, very strong.

The pigmentation of the nose, lips, and eyes should match the color of the coat. The jaws should be firm and form a perfect bite. Bearded collies have large, wide-set eyes and an affectionate look. Their ears are of medium size. The Bearded Collie gives the impression of flexibility and ease of movement.

Character

The Bearded Collie is a lively, charming dog that is inherently good-natured, stable, and reliable. This breed gets along with children and is very loyal to its family. They tend not to suffer separation. But, like any dog, it should not be left alone for long periods. This breed is not usually kept as a guard dog, but its loyal nature and tendency to yapping mean that it will not warn of danger. The Bearded will include other animals in its “company.” As herding dogs, they are always open to play and are not aggressive with other dogs.

Care

Named after his long facial hair, the Bearded Collie is a large, furry animal with a two-layer coat. The undercoat is soft, fluffy, and dense. The outer layer is flat, coarse, healthy, and hairy, with no curly hair. However, a small wave is allowed. The muzzle has long hair and a beard. The coat of the Collie needs constant care so that it does not tangle and looks good. It would help if you did not forget about brushing and regular nail checks.

Equipment needed: a good quality brush, a large wooden comb with wide teeth, and a metal comb with wide teeth on one end and fine teeth on the other end.

Training

The Bearded Collie is an intelligent breed that learns quickly and picks up commands on the fly. There are usually no problems with reaction. It is easy for a Bearded Collie to train at home if there is access to open space. For example, to the garden or backyard. However, their intelligence can sometimes lead to disobedience.

Common Diseases

Bearded Collies rarely get sick. This breed may suffer from some hereditary health problems. Several examinations are highly recommended for this breed. Some health problems that can occur in the Bearded Collie:

• hip dysplasia (HD);
• eye anomaly/choroidal hypoplasia;
• Addison’s disease.

Nutrition

It does not differ from other breeds’ diets, except that meat must be present in the diet. It must be mixed with porridges and vegetables.