Bearded Collie – Herding Group

The Bearded Collie, also known as the Beardie, is a medium to large-sized dog breed originating from Scotland.

With their distinctive long, shaggy coat and expressive eyes, Bearded Collies are known for their charming appearance and energetic personality.

Here is a full description of the Bearded Collie, including health concerns and care needs:

Appearance:

The Bearded Collie is a well-built and agile dog with a medium to large-sized frame. They typically stand between 20 and 22 inches (51-56 cm) at the shoulder and weigh between 45 and 55 pounds (20-25 kg).

Their most recognizable feature is their long, double coat that covers their entire body. The outer coat is shaggy and weather-resistant, while the undercoat is soft and dense.

They come in various colors, including black, brown, blue, or fawn, often with white markings on the chest, feet, and tail.

Their head is broad and slightly rounded, with a well-defined stop.

They have expressive, medium-sized eyes that are usually brown or hazel, and their ears are medium-sized and set high on the head, falling down close to the cheeks.

The Bearded Collie has a long, low-set tail that is carried low when at rest but raised when in motion.

Temperament:

Bearded Collies are known for their lively, friendly, and intelligent temperament.

They are social dogs that thrive on human companionship and enjoy being part of the family. They are typically good with children and get along well with other pets, although proper socialization from a young age is important.

Their herding instincts may manifest as nipping at heels or attempting to herd family members, so training and redirection are necessary to manage this behavior.

This breed is known for its intelligence and independent thinking.

They have a natural desire to work and please their owners, making them responsive and trainable.

However, they may also exhibit a stubborn streak at times, requiring consistent and positive reinforcement training methods.

Exercise and Care:

The Bearded Collie is an active breed that requires regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.

They have high energy levels and thrive in environments where they can engage in activities that challenge their minds and bodies.

Daily walks, runs, or play sessions in a securely fenced yard are necessary to fulfill their exercise needs.

They excel in dog sports such as obedience, agility, herding trials, and even tracking.

Grooming: The Bearded Collie requires regular attention due to their long, shaggy coat.

The coat should be brushed at least two to three times a week to prevent matting and tangling. During shedding seasons, daily brushing may be necessary to manage the amount of loose hair.

Their coat may require occasional trimming or shaping, particularly around the face and feet. Regular bathing should be done as needed to keep their coat clean and healthy.

Health:

Overall, the Bearded Collie is a relatively healthy breed with a lifespan of around 12 to 14 years.

However, like all dog breeds, they may be prone to certain health conditions. Some health concerns that can affect Bearded Collies include:

1. Hip Dysplasia: This is a genetic condition where the hip joint doesn’t develop properly, leading to mobility issues. Regular hip evaluations can help identify potential problems.

2. Hypothyroidism: Bearded Collies may be prone to hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones. Regular veterinary check-ups and monitoring can help manage this condition.

3. Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): PRA is an inherited eye disorder that causes progressive vision loss and can lead to blindness. Regular eye examinations by a veterinary ophthalmologist are important.

4. Autoimmune Disorders:

Bearded Collies may be susceptible to certain autoimmune disorders, including autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) and immune-mediated thyroiditis.

Proper veterinary care and monitoring are necessary for early detection and management.

Conclusion: Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight are essential for the overall well-being of Bearded Collies.