A Beardie!

The Bearded Collie is one of the oldest breeds to come out of Britain and is a medium sized, solid working dog. The breed’s foundation started in 1514 when a Polish sea captain bred Polish Sheepdogs with other herding dogs such as Old English Sheepdogs and Hungarian Sheepdogs. They were used as herding dogs for centuries throughout Scotland and gained the name Bearded Collie due to long hair which grows from their chin and Collie being the Scottish word for herding. The breed almost became extinct during World War 2 but a pair bred in 1944 helped save them, though to this day is still considered a rare breed.

They are a very happy, cheerful breed. They’re very affectionate and make a great family pet, being an excellent companion for children. They are a very happy go lucky, lively breed and are fairly active – not being suited for apartment living. Herding is in their natural instinct and a decent size yard is a must to run around in. An unexercised, bored Beardie can become very destructive! If they are going to be left alone for a long period of time they will need to taken for a long walk prior to you leaving. They are an extremely high energy dog and without enough daily physical and mental stimulation can become quite mischievous. They are a very head strong dog so require an owner who displays natural authority and is firm but calm and confident. They are quite noisy barkers but are not watch dogs, they are not a shy or aggressive breed. They are very trainable for new activities and enjoying tracking, agility and competitive obedience.

Their thick, long, shaggy coat requires daily brushing. Any mats should be attented to immediately as they can tighten very quickly and cause severe discomfort. Their eyes, ears and paws also require daily checks as they are quite well hidden under all of the fur! Aside from this they are considered an average shedder.

 Cooper, a very stunning & photogenic Bearded Collie.