The Bearded Collie is a medium sized dog that weighs between 40-58 pounds. They are 20" to 22" in height. Their abundant hair gives the impression that they are larger than they actually are. They have a happy, friendly nature and are not watch dogs in any way as they are friendly with all that they meet.
Recognized by the AKC, the acceptable coat colors for the Bearded Collie are black, grey, tan, brown or fawn with some white markings. When they are puppies, they may or may not have white markings. As they mature, their coat color either fades or changes. The most common colors are black with white or gray with white. Their long, harsh, straight and shaggy outer coat and short, soft, thick undercoat requires a daily brushing to prevent tangles. Their nickname is "beardie" because of the long, shaggy hair under their chin.
This energetic, loving, happy-go-lucky breed makes an excellent family pet. They are people dogs and love to be with their family. They are wonderful for homes with children and other dogs and can do well with other non-canine pets provided they have early socialization. They are enthusiastic, outgoing, and lively and require plenty of exercise and play time. They need a yard to run and roam. Having toys on hand is a good idea if you are going to be gone for an extended period of time. Early training is recommended because they have a stubborn tendency at times. They are easy to train.
Dating back over 500 years, the Bearded Collie originated in Scotland. They are considered to be descendents of the Polish sheepdog. They were bred to heard sheep and cattle, thus explaining their collie name which means herding dog in Scotland. They have also been used for tracking. They are still used as sheep herding dogs in some areas.
Friendly to family and strangers alike, the Bearded Collie will greet all he meets with enthusiasm. Because they require regular outdoor exercise and play, they are best with active families who will give them the activity that they need. Homes with other dogs and children can feel confident in adding a Bearded Collie to their family.
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
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