Bearded Collie Dog Breed Origin And Other Names
Bearded Collie dogs originated in Scotland. Earlier, these medium sized adorable dogs were primarily used as herding dogs. Highland Collie, Mountain Collie, Argle Bargle and Hairy Mou’ed Collie are some other names for Bearded Collie dog breed.
The breed is believed to have been developed by the cross breeding of Polish Lowland Sheepdogs with Old English Sheepdogs and Komondors.
Apart from herding, these dog breeds are also good at tracking, agility and performing tricks. Besides, they serve as great and lively companion dogs for singles as well as families.
Physical Appearance
The strong and agile Bearded Collie dog breed is characterized by along and lean body. The large and expressive eyes are set wide apart. The long eye brows tend to blend into hair coat on the side of the head. The color of the eyes and nose depends on the color of the hair coat. The medium sized droopy ears are covered with long hair.
The presence of hair under the chin gives the appearance of a beard and hence these dogs are known as Bearded Collie dogs. The long and low set tail is covered with abundant hair and usually carried low with an upward swirl at the tip.
Color: Blue, black, brown or fawn are the most common coat colors in Bearded Collie puppies. However, the color of the hair coat tends to lighten as the dogs mature. White markings may also be present.
Height: The average height of this breed of dogs is around 20 to 22 inches.
Weight: The ideal weight of male as well as female ranges between 40 to 60 pounds.
Bearded Collie Health Problems
These dogs are vulnerable to external parasitic infestation because of the dense hair coat which makes it difficult to locate and remove parasites effectively. Besides, Bearded Collie breed dogs are also likely to suffer from Hip Dysplasia, Hypothyroidism, Epilepsy, Addison’s disease and other similar health issues. Common dog diseases like allergies and skin problems are also quite common in these dogs.
Life Expectancy: Bearded Collie lifespan is usually around 12 to 14 years or more.
Litter Size: The litter size of this dog breed generally ranges between 4 to 12 puppies, but on an average it can be considered as 7 puppies.
Bearded Collie Dog Breed Grooming Requirements
These dogs require almost daily grooming. The double coat consists of a soft and furry undercoat followed by a harsh, flat and shaggy outer coat. Brush this medium length hair coat daily with the help of a bristle or pin brush by first moistening it slightly to help ease the mats.
Moreover, the coat needs special care and attention during the shedding seasons when these dogs shed moderately. In addition, you can also get your cuddly Bearded Collie professionally machine-clipped once in every two months.
Bathe your beloved doggy only when necessary to retain the natural skin oils. However, make sure that you check the dog’s eyes and ears on a regular basis and trim the paw pads periodically.
Bearded Collie Dog Temperament
They are lively, playful, outgoing, curious, sociable, confident, loyal, affectionate and delightful. They are gentle and friendly with children and love to play with other pets as well. When properly introduced these dogs also get along well with cats.
In fact, they are also used as great therapy dogs due to their friendly and comforting personality. Although, when left alone for longer duration, these people oriented dogs tend to develop separation anxiety.
Plus, as they can become independent and strong willed at times, it is essential to train and socialize Bearded Collie puppies right from the beginning. Barking and jumping are the favorite pastimes of these bouncy dogs. They generally do not make for good watchdogs.
Pros And Cons
The exuberant and energetic Bearded Collie dogs require a great deal of physical exercise on a regular basis. Without adequate physical as well as mental stimulation, these working dogs tend to get bored quite easily.
Therefore, being a dedicated dog owner, you should take your doggy out for daily walks and regularly play interactive games with him.
These dogs are usually not recommended for sedentary apartment lifestyle, at least not until they get access to a moderate sized yard for play. However, these inquisitive dogs make for good farm dogs as they love to remain outdoors and explore their surroundings as much as possible.
They can adapt to outdoor conditions quite well. These dog breeds are suitable for both experienced as well inexperienced first time dog owners.
