Have you ever seen a dog that looks more like a fluffy cloud than a canine? If yes, you might have encountered a Bearded Collie, a dog breed popular for its charm, agility, and of course, its luxurious and almost human-like hair. But when considering getting this furry friend, the question often posed is: how much does a Bearded Collie shed?
Compared to some other breeds, Bearded Collies do not shed a great deal. However, you might be in for a surprise or two, especially during a period known as ‘blowing the coat.’ Don’t worry; your precious dog isn’t about to spontaneously combust. ‘Blowing the coat’ is a term used within canine grooming circles to describe a seasonal phenomenon when these fluffy balls of joy shed more than your average Golden Retriever! So, if you are pondering getting a Bearded Collie or already own one, fasten your seatbelts for an enlightening journey into this breed’s exotic world of shedding.
As a starting point, it’s important to know that a Bearded Collie is not a hypoallergenic breed. While they shed less than typical shedders, they still lose their coat. Beardies, as they’re affectionately known, have long, dense double coats that require painstaking upkeep to prevent their hair from tangling. However, unlike breeds that shed throughout the year, Beardies have a different cycle which can test your patience.
In their puppyhood, which usually lasts till they are a year old, Bearded Collies have softer, fluffier coats. Around this one-year mark, they begin transitioning into their adult coat. And, this is where the challenge begins because the shedding starts! As part of the transitioning process, the puppy coat makes way for the adult coat by shedding. This is the aforementioned ‘blowing the coat’ phase. Your house could turn into a woolly wonderland with tufts of fur flying about.
Don’t paws for panic just yet! Although this shedding season might seem overwhelming, it usually lasts for about six months. Imagine it as the fluffy equivalent of a teenager going through an awkward puberty phase. And just as with human adolescence, with some patience and understanding, you will get through the situation just fine!
You may be wondering, if professional help is necessary during ‘blowing the coat’ period? A seasoned groomer will indeed be a significant asset during this period, but it may not always be required. With the right approach and tools, you can handle your Beardie’s shedding season at home!
First, make sure you have a good grooming routine from the start. Begin grooming your Bearded Collie when still a puppy, which helps them get adjusted to the routine and makes the coat transition easier to manage.
A slicker brush is a fantastic tool for grooming your Beardie. Regular brushing (at least a few times a week) is crucial as it not only removes the loose hair but can also prevent matting, a common problem with this breed. Knots and mats can cause discomfort and, in severe cases, even lead to skin infections.
Another secret weapon in combating your Beardie’s shedding is a high-velocity dryer. This tool can be beneficial in removing loose hair during the ‘blowing the coat’ period.
Finally, keep in mind that nutrition plays a crucial role in your furry buddy’s coat health. A balanced diet rich in Omega fatty acids will ensure that your Beardie’s coat remains healthy and shiny.
Counting the hair strands may seem like a challenging task, but the love, loyalty, and cheerfulness that a Bearded Collie brings to your life make it worth every bit. This breed’s shedding is relatively manageable with the right tools and routines. And, let’s be honest, who can resist the charm of a fluffy, bouncing, and always cheerful Beardie!
Aptly named for their beards, Bearded Collies are not only engaging to watch but also make for excellent companions. Their shedding, although it may come as a surprise to some, doesn’t take away from the charm these canines exude. With a little preparation, the right tools, and a good routine, you can manage their shedding quite well, leaving you more quality time to spend with your loving, fluffy buddy.
