Dog Breeds - Bearded Collie

Breed Attributes & Qualities

CARING WITH FAMILY + Independent Lovey-Dovey
The level of affection a breed is predisposed to display towards family members or individuals it is familiar with varies. Certain breeds may exhibit aloofness towards everyone except their owner, whereas other breeds tend to treat everyone they know as if they were their closest companion.
LOVE WITH CHILDREN + Unwise Good With Children
The level of tolerance and patience a breed exhibits towards children's behavior, as well as their overall family-friendly nature can differ. It is crucial to supervise dogs around young children or children who have limited experience with dogs regardless of the breed. However, certain breeds are generally known to be more tolerant and inclined to get along well with children making them suitable for family environments.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS + Unwise Good With Other Dogs
The inherent sociability of a breed towards other dogs can vary. While it is important to supervise and carefully introduce dogs to each other, certain breeds are typically more inclined to have positive interactions with fellow canines both within the home environment and in public settings.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT No Shedding Hair Everywhere +
The amount of fur and hair a breed sheds can vary significantly. Breeds that are prone to high shedding will typically require more frequent brushing to manage their loose hair. Additionally, they may trigger allergies in individuals who are sensitive to pet dander and their shedding may necessitate more regular vacuuming and lint-rolling to keep the environment clean. It is important to consider these factors when choosing a breed especially if you or someone in your household has allergies or prefers minimal maintenance in terms of cleaning.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS Monthly Daily +
The grooming needs of different breeds can vary significantly. Some breeds require more frequent bathing, brushing, and trimming to maintain their coat in optimal condition, while others may have lower grooming requirements. It's essential to consider your available time, patience and budget for grooming when selecting a breed. Additionally, all breeds require regular nail trimming to ensure their comfort and well-being. Taking these factors into account will help you make an informed decision based on your ability to provide the necessary grooming care for your chosen breed.
DROOLING INTENSITY Less Likely to Drool Always Have a Towel +
Those who appreciate cleanliness and orderliness should make note of the drooling tendencies commonly associated with different dog breeds. If the notion of dogs leaving trails of slobber on your arm or leaving considerable wet marks on your attire is undesirable, it may be prudent to opt for a breed that exhibits less drooling.
COAT TYPE +
Silky
COAT LENGTH +
Long

FRIENDLINESS Reserved Everyone Is My Best Friend +
The level of friendliness exhibited by a particular breed towards unfamiliar individuals can vary. Certain breeds may display reserved or cautious behavior towards strangers regardless of the setting, whereas others may eagerly embrace the opportunity to greet a new person whenever the chance arises.
LIVELINESS Only When You Want To Play Non-Stop +
The degree of enthusiasm a breed exhibits towards play can persist beyond its puppyhood stage. Certain breeds maintain a keen interest in playing games like tug-of-war or fetch well into their adult years. They derive enjoyment from these activities and may eagerly engage in them. Conversely, other breeds may be content with spending most of their time relaxing on the couch with their owners seeking a more laid-back and calm lifestyle instead of constant play.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY What's Mine Is Yours Vigilant +
Certain breeds are more inclined to exhibit a vigilant nature in terms of alerting their owners about the presence of strangers. These breeds possess a higher likelihood of reacting to any perceived threat be it the arrival of a mailman or the sight of a squirrel outside the window. Additionally, these breeds tend to be more open and accepting towards strangers who enter their owners' homes and are welcomed by their families.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY Lives For Routine Highly Adaptable +
The adaptability of a breed to handle change can vary. Some breeds are naturally more flexible and adaptable when it comes to changes in living conditions, noise levels, weather conditions, and daily schedules. They tend to adjust relatively well to new situations and can cope with variations in their day-to-day lives without significant distress. On the other hand, certain breeds may be more sensitive or resistant to change, requiring a more gradual and careful approach when introducing new elements to their environment or routine. These breeds may find sudden changes more challenging and may require additional support and time to adapt effectively.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL Self-Willed Eager to Please +
Prepare to experience the effortless joy of training your beloved pet while marveling at their boundless enthusiasm for learning. While certain breeds strive to please their owners, others embody a free-spirited approach doing as they please whenever and wherever they please.
STAMINA LEVEL Couch Potato High Energy +
Consider the exercise and mental stimulation requirements specific to each breed. Highly energetic breeds are constantly prepared for their next thrilling escapade embracing activities like running, jumping, and playing throughout the day. Conversely, low-energy breeds tend to exhibit a couch potato persona, content with lounging lazily and indulging in blissful slumber.
VOCALIZATION Only To Alert Very Vocal +
It's interesting to note the frequency at which this breed engages in vocalization be it through barking or howling. While certain breeds tend to bark incessantly at any person passing by or bird at the window others reserve their barks for specific circumstances. Additionally, it's worth mentioning that even barkless breeds can still communicate vocally using alternative sounds to express themselves.
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL Loaf Needs an Activity +
To ensure the happiness and health of specific dog breeds, it is crucial to provide them with ample mental stimulation. Purposefully bred dogs often possess innate qualities such as decision-making, problem-solving, and concentration. Failing to give them adequate brain exercise may result in the development of their own activities, which may not align with your preferences.

COLORS

PATTERNS

CARING WITH FAMILY

Independent

Lovey-Dovey

The level of affection a breed is predisposed to display towards family members or individuals it is familiar with varies. Certain breeds may exhibit aloofness towards everyone except their owner, whereas other breeds tend to treat everyone they know as if they were their closest companion.

LOVE WITH CHILDREN

Unwise

Good With Children

The level of tolerance and patience a breed exhibits towards children's behavior, as well as their overall family-friendly nature can differ. It is crucial to supervise dogs around young children or children who have limited experience with dogs regardless of the breed. However, certain breeds are generally known to be more tolerant and inclined to get along well with children making them suitable for family environments.

BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS

Unwise

Good With Other Dogs

The inherent sociability of a breed towards other dogs can vary. While it is important to supervise and carefully introduce dogs to each other, certain breeds are typically more inclined to have positive interactions with fellow canines both within the home environment and in public settings.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT

No Shedding

Hair Everywhere

The amount of fur and hair a breed sheds can vary significantly. Breeds that are prone to high shedding will typically require more frequent brushing to manage their loose hair. Additionally, they may trigger allergies in individuals who are sensitive to pet dander and their shedding may necessitate more regular vacuuming and lint-rolling to keep the environment clean. It is important to consider these factors when choosing a breed especially if you or someone in your household has allergies or prefers minimal maintenance in terms of cleaning.

COAT GROOMING STANDARDS

Monthly

Daily

The grooming needs of different breeds can vary significantly. Some breeds require more frequent bathing, brushing, and trimming to maintain their coat in optimal condition, while others may have lower grooming requirements. It's essential to consider your available time, patience and budget for grooming when selecting a breed. Additionally, all breeds require regular nail trimming to ensure their comfort and well-being. Taking these factors into account will help you make an informed decision based on your ability to provide the necessary grooming care for your chosen breed.

DROOLING INTENSITY

Less Likely to Drool

Always Have a Towel

Those who appreciate cleanliness and orderliness should make note of the drooling tendencies commonly associated with different dog breeds. If the notion of dogs leaving trails of slobber on your arm or leaving considerable wet marks on your attire is undesirable, it may be prudent to opt for a breed that exhibits less drooling.

COAT STYLES GUIDE

Silky

COAT SPECTRUM

Long

FRIENDLINESS

Reserved

Everyone Is My Best Friend

The level of friendliness exhibited by a particular breed towards unfamiliar individuals can vary. Certain breeds may display reserved or cautious behavior towards strangers regardless of the setting, whereas others may eagerly embrace the opportunity to greet a new person whenever the chance arises.

LIVELINESS

Only When You Want To Play

Non-Stop

The degree of enthusiasm a breed exhibits towards play can persist beyond its puppyhood stage. Certain breeds maintain a keen interest in playing games like tug-of-war or fetch well into their adult years. They derive enjoyment from these activities and may eagerly engage in them. Conversely, other breeds may be content with spending most of their time relaxing on the couch with their owners seeking a more laid-back and calm lifestyle instead of constant play.

VIGILANCE INTENSITY

What's Mine Is Yours

Vigilant

Certain breeds are more inclined to exhibit a vigilant nature in terms of alerting their owners about the presence of strangers. These breeds possess a higher likelihood of reacting to any perceived threat be it the arrival of a mailman or the sight of a squirrel outside the window. Additionally, these breeds tend to be more open and accepting towards strangers who enter their owners' homes and are welcomed by their families.

ADAPTATION CAPACITY

Lives For Routine

Highly Adaptable

The adaptability of a breed to handle change can vary. Some breeds are naturally more flexible and adaptable when it comes to changes in living conditions, noise levels, weather conditions, and daily schedules. They tend to adjust relatively well to new situations and can cope with variations in their day-to-day lives without significant distress. On the other hand, certain breeds may be more sensitive or resistant to change, requiring a more gradual and careful approach when introducing new elements to their environment or routine. These breeds may find sudden changes more challenging and may require additional support and time to adapt effectively.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL

Self-Willed

Eager to Please

Prepare to experience the effortless joy of training your beloved pet while marveling at their boundless enthusiasm for learning. While certain breeds strive to please their owners, others embody a free-spirited approach doing as they please whenever and wherever they please.

STAMINA LEVEL

Couch Potato

High Energy

Consider the exercise and mental stimulation requirements specific to each breed. Highly energetic breeds are constantly prepared for their next thrilling escapade embracing activities like running, jumping, and playing throughout the day. Conversely, low-energy breeds tend to exhibit a couch potato persona, content with lounging lazily and indulging in blissful slumber.

VOCALIZATION

Only To Alert

Very Vocal

Frequent

LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL

Happy to Lounge

Needs a Job or Activity

To ensure the happiness and health of specific dog breeds, it is crucial to provide them with ample mental stimulation. Purposefully bred dogs often possess innate qualities such as decision-making, problem-solving, and concentration. Failing to give them adequate brain exercise may result in the development of their own activities, which may not align with your preferences.

COLORS

Description	Registration Code
Black	007
Blue	037
Brown	061
Fawn	082

PATTERNS

Description	Registration Code
White Markings	014
White & Tan Markings	062

About The Breed

Meet the exuberant and charming droving dog all the way from Scotland - the Bearded Collie lovingly known as 'Beardie' to its pals. This shaggy-coated canine enjoys outdoor activities come rain or shine. Born with an innate ability to make their own decisions, they possess a strong-willed nature but are always filled with friendliness. Standing between 20 to 22 inches tall at the shoulder and covered in a long, shaggy double coat from head to tail, Beardies bear a striking resemblance to another beloved breed, the Old English Sheepdog. However, beneath their coats Beardies display a more slender and angular physique compared to their fluffy counterparts. Don't let the abundant facial hair deceive you - their defining expression is a wistful and distant gaze. These playful jesters may require some effort to handle, but at their core Beardies embody approximately 50 pounds of pure affection, vitality, and amusement. Well-socialized Beardies happily coexist with other animals and children. Given their tendency to quickly lose interest, engaging and varied training sessions are vital. If you're an adventurous family seeking a robust companion to keep up with your active lifestyle, you won't find a more devoted or entertaining sidekick than a Beardie.

Anticipating the Needs of Your Bearded Collie: Insights and Tips.

Taking a dog under your wing is no small favor; it's a true commitment. These devoted pets count on us for life's necessities such as food and a safe abode, however, they are entitled to a greater level of care.

Health

	Responsible breeders prioritize the health of the Bearded Collie, a robust and resilient breed. Through rigorous screening, they ensure that the breeding stock is free from various health conditions, including hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, autoimmune diseases, allergies, and eye problems. It is important for owners to regularly inspect the ears of their Beardie, clearing away any foreign objects and preventing wax buildup. Additionally, daily dental brushing is recommended to maintain oral hygiene for these delightful dogs. Health Assessment Recommendations from the Breed's National Association Hip Evaluation Elbow Evaluation Thyroid Evaluation Ophthalmologist Evaluation

Grooming

	The grooming routine for a Bearded Collie involves two key components. Firstly, a daily brushing is necessary to eliminate tangles and remove any foreign matter. This task usually takes around five to ten minutes barring any encounters with messy substances. Secondly, a weekly grooming session is recommended using a pin rake, brush, comb, and potentially an anti-tangle spray. This thorough session aims to extract dead hair and restore the coat to its pristine condition typically requiring around thirty minutes to an hour. As with all breeds, regular trimming of the Beardie's nails is essential to prevent discomfort, difficulty in movement, and potential pain while walking or running.

Exercise

	The Bearded Collie is a lively and spirited breed that thrives on regular outdoor exercise. Unlike their human counterparts Beardies exhibit boundless enthusiasm for running and playing regardless of the weather conditions. Daily activity is essential to keep them content, whether it involves playing fetch, engaging in lengthy walks, runs, or hikes, or simply frolicking in a spacious, fenced yard alongside a companion, be it human or canine. Additionally, due to their herding instincts, Beardies thoroughly enjoy participating in athletic events such as herding trials, rally, agility, and obedience competitions. A stimulated and occupied Beardie is a truly cheerful one.

Training

	For optimal development, early socialization and participation in puppy training classes are highly recommended for Bearded Collies as with any dog. It is beneficial to gradually introduce the puppy to a diverse range of people, places, and situations between the ages of seven weeks and four months. This exposure helps in fostering a well-adjusted and well-behaved adult dog. Puppy training classes play a crucial role in the socialization process, allowing owners to understand and address any emerging undesirable behaviors. It is important to note that like many other Herding breeds, the Beardie was originally bred to work independently in the field, without extensive guidance from humans. This independent and sometimes stubborn nature can pose a challenge during training. However, patient owners who employ positive reinforcement techniques along with generous rewards such as treats, will eventually triumph in establishing a strong bond and successful training with their Beardies.

Nutrition

	The Bearded Collie thrives on a high-quality diet, whether it is a commercially manufactured dog food or a home-prepared meal under the supervision and approval of a veterinarian. The chosen diet should be suitable for the dog's specific life stage, be it puppy, adult, or senior. Since some Beardies have a tendency to gain weight, it is important to monitor their calorie intake and weight levels. While treats can be helpful during training, it is crucial to avoid overindulgence as excessive treats can contribute to obesity. Familiarize yourself with which human foods are safe for dogs and which should be avoided. If you have any concerns about your dog's weight or diet consult with a veterinarian. Lastly, ensure that clean and fresh water is always readily available for your Bearded Collie.

Historiography

The Bearded Collie, originally known by various names such as the Highland Collie and Mountain Collie has a rich history rooted in the Scottish Highlands. These hard working dogs have been prized by shepherds for centuries for their ability to withstand the harsh climate and challenging terrain of Scotland. Their primary role was to assist in herding and driving cattle in pastures and markets.

The exact origin of the Bearded Collie is not confirmed and there are differing theories. Previously, it was believed to be an ancient breed predating the Roman conquest of Britain, but the prevailing theory now suggests that Beardies are descended from Central European stock. Polish Lowland Sheepdogs and Komondorok are likely ancestors that were brought to Scotland in the 1500s. As with many breeds that were primarily used by peasants and shepherds in the distant past, there are no definitive records of the Bearded Collie's creation.

Evidence of the breed can be spotted in paintings from the 1700s, a flourishing period for British portraiture. Renowned artists such as Reynolds and Gainsborough depicted dogs resembling Bearded Collies in portraits of affluent Scottish clients. This indicates the transition of the humble shepherd's dog to a fashionable status symbol in high society.By the early 1800s, the Bearded Collie had established its distinctive appearance and temperament. They gained popularity in the Scottish show circuit during Victorian times. However, the population of Beardies like many other breeds, suffered a major setback due to the disruptions of World War I. Nevertheless, dedicated breeders in Britain successfully rebuilt the Bearded Collie population between the two world wars.

The first litter of Bearded Collies in the United States was born in 1967. They were officially recognized by the AKC (American Kennel Club) and entered the AKC Stud Book ten years later. In 1983, the Bearded Collie became a charter member of the AKC Herding Group when it was formed.