The Bearded Collie could be a poor choice for an apartment because it is a shaggy, hairy, medium size dog that likes to jump around and needs vigorous exercise. A home with a properly fenced in large yard or farm would be great. She is very good with other pets and with children. By the way, never leave any young child unsupervised with a puppy or dog for any length of time.

*The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the male and female is approximately 20 to 22 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and about 40 to 60 pounds.

*Special Health Considerations. Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed although the Bearded Collie is largely free of these. Some health considerations are canine hip dysplasia (genetic based looseness in the hip joint that can lead to arthritis pain and lameness), progressive Retinal Atrophy (inherited disease of the retina that can cause vision loss and blindness), and persistent pupil membranes.

*Grooming. The Bearded Collie has a double coat, the overcoat being strong, shaggy and harsh and the undercoat is furry and soft. She should be brushed daily and care should be taken to remove any mats that develop. Her hair can attract all kinds of debris and this should be removed. She is a medium shedder. Brushing will help her maintain a clean and healthy coat and also help you keep a closer eye on her health and strengthen your emotional bond with your pet.

Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.

Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet. Generally a guillotine type trimmer is the best for this chore and competent instructions to accomplish this can be found on the net.

*Life Span. The Bearded Collie can live between 12 and 15 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.

*History. Bearded Collies were developed in Scotland as herding dogs. They came to the US around 1950. They became popular and the American Kennel Association recognized them in 1977.

*Some Registries.

UKC United Kennel Club

NKC National Kennel Club

CKC Continental Kennel Club

APRI Americas Pet Registry Inc.

AKC American Kennel Club

FCI Federation Cynologique Internationale

NZKC New Zealand Kennel Club

KCGB = Kennel Club of Great Britain

ANKC = Australian National Kennel Club

ACR = American Canine Registry

*Category. Hound Family.

*Terms to describe. Devoted, stable, intelligent, active, hardy, enthusiastic.

*SPECIAL GOOD POINTS

Hardy and strong working dog.

Not aggressive.

Not shy.

Sociable with people and other animals.

Is a show dog and cleans up beautifully.

*SPECIAL BAD POINTS

Requires lots of exercise.

Will shed plenty.

Long shaggy hair will attract dirt and retain water when wet.

May chase and try to herd or nip at running children, bikes, joggers, dogs, etc.

May bark excessively.

Demands plenty of human attention.

Needs to be trained.

*Other Names Known By: Hairy Mou ed Collie, Mountain Collie, Highland Collie, Beardie