Did you know that the Bearded Collie, affectionately known as the Beardie, almost disappeared during World War II? This lively, intelligent, and affectionately charming breed narrowly escaped becoming just a memory, thanks to Mrs. Willison who happened upon a brown female puppy named Jeannie in 1944 and fell head over heels in love. She later found a mate for Jeannie, and thus began the revival of one of Scotland’s oldest breeds. Now, isn’t that an interesting tidbit to start the day?
Now, let’s discuss the ever-important question all dog owners will face. If you are wondering if the Bearded Collie is a high maintenance dog, well, brace yourself because the answer is yes. But don’t worry; this article aims to bring you value by helping you understand what kind of maintenance you can expect and with helpful advice to make life with a Beardie enjoyable and/or manageable.
First, let’s talk about their iconic feature–their hair. The Beardie boasts a long, silky, shaggy coat that requires frequent brushing to keep it mat-free. This isn’t your typical every-other-day kind of brushing; the Beardie’s coat needs daily care. That’s right, every single day. Even missing one day can spell a disaster of tangled knots. This is especially true during their puppyhood and adolescence when they shed their puppy coat and grow their adult coat. Regular grooming sessions are necessary to keep their coat clean and their skin healthy. You also need to be prepared for the possibility that your Beardie might leave a trail of fur in their wake despite your best efforts.
Now, let’s move on to the Beardie’s exercise needs. The Bearded Collie is a herding breed, and like other herding breeds, they are a highly energetic breed that requires lots of exercise. A simple walk around the block won’t do for these guys. They need mentally stimulating activities such as obedience training, agility courses, and herding events. A lack of physical and mental stimulation can lead to destructive behaviors such as excessive barking, chewing, and digging.
Food is another aspect that requires serious thought when caring for a Beardie. Beardies have a fast metabolism, which means they burn off calories quickly. Hence, they need a diet rich in protein to fuel their energy levels. Ensuring they have a properly balanced diet is part of the high maintenance job of owning a Beardie.
However, the biggest challenge of owning a Beardie is undoubtedly their stubborn streak. As highly intelligent dogs, they have a mind of their own and can be quite determined to get their own way. While this makes them great problem solvers, it also means they take a firm and consistent hand in training. Without proper training, they can easily develop a variety of behavioral problems.
But don’t let this information deter you. While Bearded Collies may be high maintenance, they more than make up for it. With their infectious zest for life, insatiable curiosity, and their eagerness to please, Beardies are unequivocally charming. They are also great with children and get along well with other pets. Their outgoing nature and their love for play make them wonderful family pets and they are surely to bring joy and laughter into any household.
Adopting a Beardie comes with its challenges, but it also brings immeasurable rewards. Their loyalty and love for their family is unparalleled. They are not just pets, but they become family members. They fill your days with laughter, your moments with joy, and your life with love. The commitment you make to a Beardie is significant, but the return is immeasurable.
Remember that with the right approach and a lot of patience, the responsibilities of owning a high-maintenance breed like the Bearded Collie can turn into delightful bonding moments. A simple grooming session can transform into a therapeutic hands-on experience. Training sessions can become avenues for shared achievement.
At the end of the day, it’s all about understanding and accepting that owning a Bearded Collie is a lifelong commitment. It’s about being willing to embrace their quirks, their energy, and their somewhat stubborn behavior. In return, they will reward you with loyalty and love beyond words.
So yes, while the Bearded Collie may be high in maintenance, they are also high in love, joy, and companionship. After all, as one Beardie lover eloquently puts it, “life with a Bearded Collie is never dull.”
