Bearded Collie
Temperament:
The Bearded Collie, also affectionately known as the "Beardie", is a herding and herding dog (FCI Group 1). Behind his fuzzy head lies a charming, intelligent but also sensitive nature. He feels most at home with families and active people who have plenty of time for him.
Characteristics
Externally, the Bearded Collie stands out above all for its fuzzy coat. The standard coat is of medium length, shaggy and rather coarse with a soft undercoat. Today, some Bearded Collies are also bred with significantly longer coats.
The most common color is probably gray. However, there are also black, blue and brown Beardies. What they all have in common are the white markings on their chest, paws, face and tail.
The Bearded Collie reaches a shoulder height of around 51-53 cm (females) or 53-56 cm (males). Under its shaggy coat, it is surprisingly slim and wiry. The average normal weight of a Beardie is around 18-27 kg. Bitches usually weigh a little less.
Typical of the breed are the medium-length, drooping ears and the low-set tail. This reaches almost to the ground.
As a herding dog, the Bearded Collie is used to demanding tasks. A dog bred to herd and drive livestock is intelligent and willing to work. It is also very independent and self-confident, but also sensitive.
Calm by nature, confident and without a tendency towards aggression, the Beardie is an exemplary family dog. Its alertness and good nature make it a loyal companion that goes through thick and thin with its people.
Anyone acquiring a Bearded Collie should be aware that this breed is very active. These dogs want to be challenged physically and mentally. Long walks and bike rides are great fun for these dogs. Classic dog sports are another way of keeping them busy and exercising them.
Its intelligence and eagerness to learn make the Bearded Collie a relatively easy dog to train. However, the necessary consistency is essential. Empathy is also important, as this breed is sensitive and very attentive. Dogs of this breed also tend to be sensitive to noise. Here it is important that you can lead your dog confidently and safely without frightening him.
The Beardie does not have a hunting instinct, but as a herding dog it has a pronounced chasing instinct. It is therefore important that you always have contact with your dog when it is running free and can call it back.
Dogs of this breed are not suitable as guard dogs. Although they are alert, they are always friendly and very people-oriented.
This is also reflected in his need for cuddles. A Bearded Collie prefers to always be with its "herd" and enjoys being stroked very much.
These lovable, active and good-natured dogs are ideal for families and people who enjoy being out and about in nature.
Coat care:
Shedding:
Energy level:
Trainability:
Children suitable:
The right food
It is important to know that food requirements increase with the level of activity. A dog bred to herd and drive livestock will consume more energy than a pure companion dog.
Nevertheless, it is important to observe the dog and adjust the feeding accordingly. Very active and sporty dogs have a higher food requirement than calmer contemporaries. Of course, the age of your dog must also be taken into account when determining the amount of food.
In general, the Beardie does not tend to be overweight due to its activity. Nevertheless, it is important to ensure a balanced and healthy diet.
As with all dogs, do not feed anything sweet!
Leftover food from the table is also taboo.
The docile Bearded Collie naturally appreciates a treat as a reward. But here, too, you should definitely avoid products containing sugar.
In general, this dog breed is very robust. However, there is a certain susceptibility to some autoimmune diseases. Here, a sparing but regular dose of omega-3 fatty acids and zinc can be useful.
Health & Care
When buying a long-haired dog, you should be aware of the increased grooming requirements. The Bearded Collie is still relatively low-maintenance. Nevertheless, its coat needs your attention. This is especially true for the more modern breeds, some of which shed very slowly.
Regular brushing is a must. Otherwise the coat can become unattractively matted. It is best to get your dog used to regular grooming as a puppy. Then he will be familiar with the brush and other grooming utensils and can be groomed easily later on. Some Bearded Collies even really enjoy gentle brushing!
A flat brush with soft metal bristles adapted to the size of the dog is ideal. Combs with coarse teeth are also good for grooming.
If necessary, you can also buy special care sprays that make brushing easier. But please always use sparingly!
When grooming Bearded Collies, you also need to pay attention to the paws! The long hair between the pads can easily become knotted with dirt and matted.
If necessary, you can trim the hair here with scissors.
A mild dog shampoo can also help. However, regular bathing or washing is not necessary. If he gets a little more dirt or mud in his coat: Simply leave to dry and brush out thoroughly!
Avoid clipping your Beardie completely! Otherwise, the soft undercoat can quickly gain the upper hand in long-haired dogs. The stronger and protective top coat falls by the wayside and the natural structure of the coat is permanently disrupted.
As the Bearded Collie has drooping ears, special care must be taken to keep them clean. Occasional checking and, if necessary, careful cleaning with a soft cloth is sufficient.
The same applies to the eyes, in the corners of which dirt can sometimes accumulate.
As with all dogs, checking for fleas, ticks and the like is also part of the care and, if necessary, removing the pests.
Suitable accessories
A brush and comb for grooming are definitely part of your dog's basic equipment. For dogs that mat quickly, a special grooming spray is helpful to make brushing easier. A dog shampoo is also a sensible purchase for representatives of long-haired breeds.
By the way: Some Beardie owners use hair clips to keep the fur of the fuzzy head out of their eyes!
Bearded Collies are active dogs. Retrieving balls or tugging leads are suitable for keeping them busy and occupied. For mental fitness, so-called intelligence toys can be considered.
Origin & History
The long, robust coat of the Bearded Collie gives you an idea: It originates from cool regions with a damp climate. The breed was probably first bred by shepherds in the Scottish Highlands. This is where the common name "Highland Collie" comes from.
The origins of the breed date back to the 15th century. At that time, Polish herding dogs were preferred in Scotland. This breed gave rise to the Bearded Collie, which has a more robust and low-maintenance coat. This undemanding nature was important as it was used as a working dog.
Later, the breed also enjoyed great popularity in aristocratic circles. Gradually, however, it fell into oblivion and was even on the verge of extinction. There were unsuccessful attempts to crossbreed with the very similar Bobtail. It was not until 1944 that the Scottish pet dealer Olive Willison succeeded in finding and mating two purebred Beardies. Since around 1950, the continued existence of the breed is once again considered secure.
Today, Bearded Collies are still very popular in Great Britain. They are also popular as herding dogs in France. In general, they are widespread and popular throughout Europe.
Over the course of time, a breed form has developed in which more emphasis is placed on a longer and silkier coat than in the original type. These dogs are mainly shown at dog shows and require much more grooming.
