Mary Allen
Bearded Collie – an intelligent dog
The Bearded Collie is an ancient breed that was probably bred from the hardy Polish lowland herding dogs and the herding dogs of his native Scotland. The result is a hard-working dog that also makes a very good pet if the owner has enough time for exercise and grooming. He’s good-natured, lively, and fun to be with, but expensive to maintain and takes up a lot of space.
Bearded Collie – breed portrait
This breed is a lively dog that does not appear ponderous despite its thick coat and body. He is intelligent and reliable.
Story
Not much is known about the origins of the Bearded Collie. But it is assumed that he belongs to the shaggy shepherd dogs, whose origin lies in Eastern Europe/Asia. Experts claim that he came to England with the cattle, sheep, and cattle he bought there. Sheep herding in Scotland was left to Bearded Collies as early as the fifteenth century. Their task was not only to herd cattle but also to defend against predators and cattle rustlers.
In order to cope with the extreme weather conditions in Scotland, a strong dog with an impermeable coat was needed and bred. As a result of targeted breeding, the Bearded Collies emerged, which are closely related to the dogs from the areas of Scotland. In contrast to the Border Collie, which had the same name and was used as a shepherd dog, the Bearded Collie was used for complex herding tasks. The tasks included finding and bringing back stray animals. Another task was to independently drive herds of cattle out of the mountains.
He owes the name Bearded Collie to his beard, which today grows over his lips and from his chin. It was officially recognized by the FCI in 1967, but by the 1950s it had gained a foothold as a breed of its own. Today, this breed is bred primarily as a family dog. Looking after his family is one of his main tasks today.
Care
Bearded Collies need intensive grooming. The long hair needs to be brushed and combed every week to prevent tangles. Excessive hair on the soles of the feet and hair in the ear canal must also be removed. The fur must be parted and fall down.
External features of the Bearded Collie
This breed is a slender dog that does not appear plump despite its thick coat and a sturdy body.
Eyes
Widely spaced, of many colors from very dark to very light, usually matching coat color.
Backline
The back is longer than the dog is tall. It runs straight and level, without any upward or downward curvature, up to the tail.
Head
Under the fur lies a broad and square head with a powerful snout and a black nose.
Ears
Long lop ears are covered with dense fringes. They rise noticeably when the dog is excited.
Paws
Oval and strong, with thick pads, covered with fur all around including between the toes and pads.
Temperament
Bright and cheerful, talented and inquisitive. Bearded Collies are very lively, sometimes a bit cocky, but loving and very affectionate. They need “family connection” and are not suitable for kennel keeping, as they quickly become lonely there.
Upbringing
The Bearded Collie is an intelligent dog that learns quickly and willingly. Strict training has no effect on this dog. Careful, playful guidance is better. One should not put too much burden on his shaggy shoulders, because then the dog easily loses his cheerful disposition.
Compatibility
Bearded Collies get along well with children, pets, and other dogs. Strangers are also usually greeted in a friendly manner.
Movement
This shaggy shepherd dog gets the greatest pleasure if you regularly take them out into the open and let them “romp” there. Bearded Collies (like most dogs in this breed group) show no tendency to run away, on the contrary: They usually stay close to their human and orientate themselves to them.
With their innate instincts, they do well in obedience and herding performance tests.
Particularities
Because of its gentle nature, the Bearded Collie is also suitable for people who have less experience with raising dogs. Thanks to its great adaptability, it finds its way both in the country and in the city.
However, one should always remember that the coat of these dogs requires a lot of care and therefore time. Also keep in mind that this race (like most guardian races) requires a lot of exercises, especially mentally.