| The Bearded Collie is a medium-sized, strong dog, with a medium-length coat that follows the natural lines of his body, and does not fall to the ground. His bright, inquiring expression is a distinctive characteristic of the breed. |
| Height: |
Male: 21-22 inches; Female: 20-21 inches |
| Weight: |
40-60 pounds |
| Color(s): |
Black, brown, fawn and blue, with or without white markings in the Irish Pattern; tan trim may occur on all colors |
| Coat: |
Outer coat is flat, harsh, strong and shaggy, free from woolliness and curl; with a soft, furry, and close undercoat |
| Description: |
The Bearded Collie is traditionally a herding breed of dog, used primarily by Scottish shepherds. Beardies were used to herd both sheep and cattle, bred to be hardy and reliable, able to withstand the harshest conditions. The working Bearded Collie has become less common, and more common as a family pet. |
| Temperament: |
The Bearded Collie is intelligent and independent. After being provided with sufficient exercise, Bearded Collies prefer to be kept indoors with their family (pack). |
| Training: |
The Bearded Collie is an enthusiastic herding dog that requires structure and fostering. |
| Care & Grooming: |
Sufficient exercise to meet the Bearded Collie’s high energy level is required. Beardies excel at dog agility trials. Weekly brushing is mandatory for keeping their long hair mat-free. Keeping your Beardie in a "puppy cut" haircut, will reduce the need for brushing, but not eliminate it altogether. |
| Shedding: |
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| Health: |
UK owners reported the most common health issues with their Bearded Collies were musculoskeletal, mostly arthritis and CLR; gastrointestinal, mostly colitis and diarrhea); and, urologic. US and Canadian owners reported the most common health problems were hypothyroidism, cancer, Addison’s disease (occurs in 2-3.4% of Beardies), arthritis, and skin problems. Bearded Collies with unexplained lethargy, frequent gastric disturbances, or an inability to tolerate stress should be tested for Addison’s disease. If caught early, the potentially fatal sodium/potassium imbalance found in Addison’s disease, can be treated with life-long medication, giving the afflicted dogs a relatively normal life. |
| Lifespan: |
12-13.4 years median |
| Litter Size: |
7 average |
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