Bearded Collie
🧠 Temperament & character
The Bearded Collie is cheerful, lively and self-assured, and at the same time thoroughly playful and enduring. He loves his family above all else, is fond of children and usually gets on well with other dogs. His temperament and his urge to move are considerable – boredom does not suit him at all. With his charming, sometimes clever stubbornness he keeps his people well and truly on their toes.
📜 Origin & history
The Bearded Collie is an old Scottish breed that was used for centuries to drive sheep and cattle in the rugged Highlands. Its weatherproof shaggy coat protected it from rain, wind and cold. After the Second World War the breed was on the brink of extinction, but was rebuilt above all by the British breeder Olive Willison. The former farm dog thus became the popular, lively family dog of today.
✂️ Grooming, care & training
The long, shaggy coat with its soft undercoat is the main effort with this breed: without thorough brushing several times a week it quickly mats. On top of that the Beardie needs plenty of exercise – long walks, play and dog sports such as agility keep him happy. He also wants to be kept busy mentally, for he is clever and enjoys learning. With friendliness and motivation he is easy to train; he reacts sensitively to harshness.
🩺 Health
The Bearded Collie is considered a largely healthy, long-lived breed with a life expectancy of around 12 to 14 years. Occasionally hip dysplasia occurs, as well as autoimmune diseases such as Addison's disease (an underactive adrenal cortex). Reputable breeders X-ray the hips and pay attention to healthy, long-lived breeding lines. Hereditary eye diseases should also be ruled out through examinations.
🏡 Who is this breed right for?
The Bearded Collie suits active families and people who like being outdoors and are willing to invest time in coat care and occupation. He is a wonderful companion for children and copes best with everyday life in a house with a garden. For very quiet or inactive owners his temperament is too much. With enough exercise and loving guidance he is also suitable for committed first-time owners.