Read About Bearded Collies

Bearded Collies are affectionate and playful dogs. Here's everything you need to know about this dog breed.

Quick Bearded Collie Summary:

  1. Size:

    The Bearded Collie is a member of the Medium Dog BreedImage
  2. Weight:

    Their average weight is 40-60 lbs.
  3. Coat:

    The Bearded Collie is Long Coated.
  4. Shedding:

    The Bearded Collie exhibits Medium Shedding.
  5. Temperament:

    The demeanor of the Bearded Collie is Gentle.
  6. Obedience:

    The Bearded Collie's behavior is generally one of Good Obedience,
  7. Ease of Training:

    The Bearded Collie is Easy to Train.
  8. Way with Children:

    The Bearded Collie is Excellent with Children.

Bearded Collie - Facts

  1. AKC Group/Date Admitted:

    Herding;1976
  2. Size & Weight:

    The Bearded Collie stands 20-22 inches tall, and weighs 40-60 lbs
  3. Coat:

    Bearded Collie's have a thick shaggy coat and a dense, soft undercoat.
  4. Head & Muzzle:

    Their head is large and broad. The muzzle is short and the ears are medium sized, hang down and are covered with hair.
  5. Body:

    Bearded Collie's bodies are longer than they are high. They have deep chests reaching to their elbows.
  6. Colors:

    According to the AKC they are born black, blue, brown or fawn and white markings are acceptable. The coat may lighten over time.
  7. Life Expectancy:

    14-15 yrs.
  8. Popularity:

    In a 2005 popularity ranking by the AKC they were ranked 101 out of 154 breeds.
  9. Habitat:

    The Bearded Collie is not recommended for apartment life. They are active indoors and will do best with an average sized yard. It is ok for them to sleep outdoors as they prefer the outdoors to being inside.

Bearded Collie - Origins

  1. Country of Origin:

    Scotland
  2. Historical Information:

    This breed is a descendant of the Polish Sheepdog and was introduced in Scotland around 1514 by a Polish sea captain who traded three of his dogs for a ewe and a ram. These dogs were bred with local herding dogs producing what is now the Bearded Collie.

Bearded Collie - Defining Characteristics

  1. Temperament:

    Bearded Collie's are playful and happy. The males are more outgoing than the females.
  2. Behavior:

    They can be stubborn so obedience training is important for these dogs.
  3. Habits:

    Bearded Collie's are noisy barkers and are natural herder's of both people and animals.

Bearded Collie - Concerns

  1. ImageHealth Issues:

    They are prone to hip dysplasia. The long coat can also hide parasites such as ticks.
  2. Exercise Needs:

    Bearded Collie's need lots of exercise to stay healthy. They need a safe place to run leash free.
  3. Grooming Needs:

    They require daily brushing. Mist lightly with water before brushing. They can be professionally machine clipped every 2 months. Their eyes, ears and paws should be checked daily. Bathe or dry shampoo only when necessary. Check them regularly for ticks as these can easily hide in the long coat.
  4. Travel Needs:

    For the safety of yourself as well as your Bearded Collie, using a safety belt harness is best while traveling in the car. This will keep him comfortable while preventing him from roaming around the car possibly causing injury to himself or others.
  5. Getting Along With Other Pets and Children:

    Bearded Collie's are excellent with children. They will get along well with other animals and should be socialized at an early age.
  6. Bearded Collie -- How to Choose

    1. What to Look for in a Healthy Puppy:

      Look for bright and clear eyes, healthy coat and skin and clean ears that are free of parasites.
    2. What You Will Need For A New Puppy:

      Things to have on hand for your new puppy are: a good puppy food, a brush for grooming, toys and a crate or kennel.
    3. Puppy-proofing your house:

      Keep all small objects out of reach.
    4. How to make your new puppy feel at home:

      Your new puppy may seem shy and intimidated at first. Provide them with a quiet and comfortable place to sleep. Let them explore their new surroundings and get familiar with their new home. Use interactive dog toys to play with your new puppy so you can get to know each other. With lots of love and interaction your new puppy will feel at home in no time.