Did you know that Bearded Collies are among the oldest British dog breeds? These dogs were actually used to herd sheep in Scotland during the 1500s. That’s about five centuries ago! Now, I bet that’s something you’ve never heard of. Fascinating, isn’t it? So, if you’ve thought of having a bearded collie as a pet, buckle up! This article will give you a comprehensive understanding of what life can be like with this unique, playful, and head-turning breed.
Bearded collies, or “beardies” as they’re affectionately known, are energetic, enthusiastic and full of personality. Renowned for their weather-resistant and distinctive shaggy coat, they move with a light-footed grace. Their eyes have an intelligent ‘spark’, conveying a wide range of emotion – be it mischievous are or devotion. And yes, they also have a beard!
The question is, are they difficult dogs to live with? Well, let’s look at this from various perspectives. Let’s explore their temperament, behavior, grooming needs, health issues, training, and suitability for families with children or other pets.
First off, let’s talk about temperament. Bearded collies are friendly, sociable dogs that get along well with people, children, and other pets. They’re known to be loyal, and their charismatic nature often wins many hearts. However, they are also active and lively breed that needs plenty of mental and physical exercise. If they don’t get ample activity, they are likely to demonstrate destructive behavior out of boredom.
So, if you work long hours or live in a small apartment with no yard, a beardie might not be the best choice for you. On the contrary, if you have a spacious home and love spending time outdoors, this energetic breed could fit perfectly into your life.
When it comes to training, bearded collies are intelligent and eager to please. They are fast learners; however, they also become bored quickly. Therefore, training sessions should be short, varied, and fun. The good news is, they are very food motivated which adds an advantage while training them.
Bear in mind, though, due to their independent nature, sometimes it may feel as if they have a mind of their own, and some obedience commands may take a while to get through. It’s important to be patient, consistent, and positive during your training sessions. Persistence will pay off, and you will soon have a well-behaved furry companion in the house.
Now, let’s consider grooming. A beardie’s long, flowing coat might be beautiful to look at, but it requires a lot of maintenance. Without regular brushing, their hair can mat, causing discomfort for the dog. Expect to spend several hours per week grooming your dog to maintain its shiny, healthy coat. If grooming isn’t your thing, you might find a bearded collie a difficult breed to keep.
When we talk about health, Bearded Collies are generally a robust breed. However, like any breed, they are prone to certain health conditions. These may include hip dysplasia, eye disorders, autoimmune diseases, and certain types of cancer. Regular veterinary check-ups and a healthy diet can go a long way in ensuring they lead a long and healthy life.
Lastly, let’s discuss how they fare with children and other pets. Beardies are generally excellent with kids. They are friendly, protective, and patient, making them a great family dog. They are also good with other dogs and can live happily with cats and other pets if they are properly socialized. However, due to their inherent herding instinct, they might try to herd your children or other pets, which can be problematic if not addressed.
To summarize, are Bearded Collies a difficult dog breed? The answer isn’t black and white. It depends on your lifestyle, living conditions, your willingness to invest time in training and grooming, and most importantly, your perseverance. They are energetic, needing a high level of physical activity. They are intelligent, demanding mentally stimulating activities. They have a high-maintenance coat that requires regular grooming. But on the flip side, they are loyal, friendly, excel in various dog sports, and can be a wonderful companion if their needs are met.
So, is a bearded Collie right for you? Only you can answer that question. However, if you are willing to invest your time, energy, and heart into this unique breed, rest assured, the bearded collie will reciprocate with love, loyalty, and countless memorable moments that you will cherish for a lifetime.
