Bearded Collie
About Bearded Collie
Looking for a spirited, family-friendly addition to your home? Meet the Bearded Collie, or "Beardie," a lovable dog with a distinctive shaggy coat and a heart full of affection. Standing about 20 to 22 inches tall and weighing between 45 to 55 pounds, these dogs are perfect playmates for children and get along well with other pets, thanks to their joyful and sociable nature.
With high energy levels, Beardies thrive on 60 to 90 minutes of daily exercise, whether it’s a romp in the yard, agility training, or brisk walks. To keep their beautiful coats in top shape, regular grooming sessions with a pin brush a few times a week are essential, as they are moderate shedders. Training a Beardie can be a fun bonding experience; they respond well to positive reinforcement, although their intelligence and occasional stubborn streak require patience.
Keep an eye on their health, as they can be prone to hip dysplasia and certain eye conditions. With a life expectancy of 12 to 14 years, the Bearded Collie is a delightful, lively companion that will bring endless joy to your household!
Interesting Facts
The Bearded Collie, or 'Beardie,' is considered one of the oldest breeds in Scotland, with roots dating back to the 16th century. They were initially used for herding livestock, earning them a reputation as excellent working dogs.
The name 'Bearded Collie' comes from the characteristic hair that hangs down from their chin and forms a beard. Not just for aesthetics, this beard also helps protect their face and eyes from harsh weather conditions and from bristles while herding through the thick underbrush.
Bearded Collies have a unique bouncing style of herding, where they use a boisterous, bouncing motion to intimidate and direct livestock. This led to their other nickname - 'bouncing Beardie.'
The Bearded Collie is a double-coated breed meaning they have two layers of fur—an undercoat that is soft and short for insulation, and a topcoat that is straight and harsh to withstand the elements.
The breed has also earned its 15 minutes of fame. A Bearded Collie starred as the mischievous canine in the Disney movie, "The Shaggy D.A," and has also been portrayed in paintings dating as far back as the 1800s.
Bearded Collies are known for their intelligence and problem-solving skills, making them quick learners in obedience training, though they can have a stubborn streak, requiring consistent, patient guidance.
With their high energy levels, Bearded Collies excel in dog sports such as agility and obedience competitions, where they can showcase their athleticism and quick reflexes.
Originally, Bearded Collies were prized by Scottish shepherds not only for their herding abilities but also for their loyal companionship, often living closely with the shepherd's family.
The Bearded Collie's lively and social personality makes them excellent family pets, as they thrive on interaction and are known to be particularly good with children.
Famous for their adaptability, Bearded Collies can adjust to various climates and environments, making them popular among farmers and pet owners across different regions.
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