Bearded Collie Breed Description

An Owner's Bearded Collie Description
Bounce was named for her exuberance, high energy and happy demeanor - not for the fabric softener! She actually appears to be bouncing when she comes to greet you. In spite of her long silky coat she prefers the farm over the apartment life. And, in truth, she will do much better here. She's an all weather dog that enjoys the outdoors and needs room to run and play. With enough daily exercise any Bearded Collie can adapt to indoor life; however, it will take a commitment by their owner to work off some of their energy. Even then, the Collie will look for every opportunity to be outdoors.

Bounce brings a smile to your face just watching her apparent delight. She loves children and showers them with affection. I think she appreciates their energy level. Together, they can entertain each other for hours. Most Bearded Collies do not like to be left alone for too long. They will become bored and can be somewhat mischievous and destructive to a house full of unattended chewable things. If the weather is fair, I prefer to leave her playing in the yard.

Bounce has a natural tendency to think a lot of herself and can develop an attitude if I'm not firmly taking the lead. Just like it is with children, being consistent is very important in her training. Firm but calm. Even though Bounce can be a noisy barker, I've noticed she really doesn't make a very good watch dog. She's just too happy and too friendly, even with strangers. She's neither shy nor aggressive, which really makes her a perfect family dog.

 

 

Introduction

This breed is also known as the Beardie. These dogs are good with children and other dogs but are not easy to obedience train. These shaggy dogs come in a variety of colors and shades with black, gray, fawn, brown and blue the most common colors. Their coat needs lots of grooming. Exuberance is the top personality trait of this ancient breed. These high spirited, friendly dogs need constant mental and physical stimulation. They weigh 40 to 60 lbs. and stand 20-22" at the shoulders.

History

These ancient dogs are best known as the Highland Collie, because they have been used to herd livestock in Scotland for centuries. They are also known as Beardies, Mountain Collies and Mou'ed Collies. These are working dogs, and their dense coats enable them to withstand the worst of the British Isles' weather as they defend and herd their charges. True origins are unknown, but genetics suggest they stem fromthe Komondor-type dogs of early nomads who made their way to Britain.

Description

At first glance, the Beardie is reminiscent of an English Sheepdog, but a closer look reveals the unique proportions that hallmark this Collie. They are long and lean with a surprising agility. The head is proportionate to the body, the skull flat with a strong full muzzle. Wideset eyes are known for their inquisitive expression; colors vary with coat colors (black, blue, brown or fawn). Noses are large and somewhat square. Ears are set level with the eyes and fully covered with long hair so they blend in with the head as they hang down. Scissors bite. Strong neck is slightly arched, leading to laid-back shoulders that slope outwards. Legs are straight. Body is longer than it is tall (ratio is five to four, according to the AKC Standard). Ribs are flat on the sides, which is one of the attributes lending to the narrow profile of this breed. Chest is deep, loins strong and back line is level. Hind legs are powerful, hocks are low, and the tail is low set. Feet are oval in shape with densely padded soles. Arched toes are fur-covered and there is fur between the pads, too.

Temperament

These working dogs are affectionate and outgoing and make wonderful family pets. It is important to keep them active and interested, so varying their daily training and exercise routines will be necessary if they don't have sheep to manage!

Health and Care

Look at photographs of Bearded Collies carefully: all that hair requires daily care. While not a difficult task -- it brushes easily -- it MUST be done daily. Assess your commitment to this necessity before bringing a Beardie home! The climate you live in will affect how often the dog fully 'blows' its coat; however, they shed daily as well.

Sources

American Kennel Club, Bearded Collie Club of America, Wikipedia

Colors

Black, Brown, Blue, or Fawn (any of these many lighten as the dog matures).

Living Area

Not recommended for apartment life, they are best on a farm or acreage where they have the room to run and exercise with their handlers. They are highly active even indoors where they prefer to be with their humans.

Recognized By

CKC, FCI, AKC, UKC, ANKC, NKC, NZKC, APRI, ACR

Pets4You offers listings of Bearded Collie breeders with puppies for sale.