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Bearded Collie

Herding Group

Energetic, friendly and intelligent

Bearded Collie

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Breed Overview

The Bearded Collie, with its distinctive long, flowing coat and lively character, is a versatile herding dog and a loving companion. They are well-suited to active lifestyles and are known for their cheerful and affectionate nature.

Physical Characteristics
  • Size Medium
  • Height 20-22 inches (males), 18-21 inches (females)
  • Weight 45-55 pounds (both males and females)
  • Life Span 12-14 years
  • Coat Long, shaggy, and dense
  • Color Black, blue, brown, or fawn, often with white markings
  • Grooming High; requires regular grooming to maintain coat condition
  • Temperament Energetic, intelligent, and friendly; known for being playful and affectionate
  • Energy Level High
  • Intelligence High
Health Needs
  • Exercise Requires regular, vigorous exercise
  • Trainability Highly trainable, responds well to positive reinforcement
  • Socialization Good with families and children; sociable with other pets
  • Grooming High; requires regular grooming to maintain coat condition
  • Health Issues Generally healthy, but can be prone to hip dysplasia, eye problems, and hypothyroidism
Environment
  • Suitability for Families Excellent family pet
  • Suitable Living Space Bearded Collies do best with space to roam and play, but can adapt to apartment living with ample daily exercise and mental engagement.

About the Breed

Bearded Collies were originally bred to herd sheep and cattle in Scotland, valued for their hardiness and independent working spirit. Their friendly nature has made them beloved companions beyond their herding role.

History of the Breed

Their origins trace back to Scotland, where they worked as herders and drovers. The modern breed was developed in the 20th century and gained popularity as a show dog and pet.

Scotland

Fun Facts About the Bearded Collie

What To Expect When Caring For a Bearded Collie

Health

Generally healthy, but prone to hip dysplasia, eye problems, and hypothyroidism. Regular health screenings and check-ups are recommended.

Grooming

Their long coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting. This includes brushing several times a week and occasional trimming. Pay special attention to their "beard" to keep it clean and free of food debris.

Exercise

Requires daily, vigorous exercise. They enjoy long walks, play sessions, and activities like agility or herding trials. Their high energy level makes them suitable for active families.

Training

Training should be consistent and engaging. They respond well to positive, reward-based training methods. Early socialization and obedience training are crucial for their development.

Nutrition

A balanced diet is suitable for their size, age, and activity level. Monitor their food intake to prevent obesity, a common issue in active breeds.

Caring for a Bearded Collie requires commitment, particularly in terms of grooming and exercise. They thrive in environments where they can be part of the family and engage in various activities. With the right care and attention, Bearded Collies make loyal, joyful, and energetic companions.

Bearded Collie Common Health Issues and Recommended Tests

The Bearded Collie, known for its joyful demeanor and distinctive coat, is generally a healthy and hardy breed. However, like all dog breeds, Bearded Collies are predisposed to certain health conditions. Being aware of these conditions and undergoing recommended tests can help in maintaining their health.

Description: A genetic condition where the hip joint does not form properly, which can lead to arthritis and pain.

Description: Including conditions like Collie Eye Anomaly and Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), which can impair vision.

Description: A disorder where the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones.

Description: Such as autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) and autoimmune thyroiditis.

Hip Dysplasia

Description: A genetic condition where the hip joint does not form properly, which can lead to arthritis and pain.

Eye Problems

Description: Including conditions like Collie Eye Anomaly and Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), which can impair vision.

Hypothyroidism

Description: A disorder where the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones.

Autoimmune Diseases

Description: Such as autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) and autoimmune thyroiditis.

Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to catch any health issues early, and prompt attention to any changes in your dog's behavior or appearance is key. With proper care and attention to health, Bearded Collies can lead happy, healthy lives as beloved members of their families.

Prescription Medication Assistance for Bearded Collies

The iHeartDogs Free Rx Discount Card Program is a pet prescription discount card that can help you save money on your furry friend’s medications. The card is free to sign up for, and you can use it at participating pharmacies nationwide. To use the free program, simply show the card to your pharmacist when you pick up your pet’s prescription. The pharmacist will then scan the card, and you will receive a discount on the price of the medication.LEARN MORE

How Much Does It Cost To Care For A Bearded Collie?

Caring for a Bearded Collie involves various annual expenses, which can vary depending on factors such as your location, the individual dog’s needs, and the level of care you choose to provide. Here’s a general breakdown of the annual costs for a Bearded Collie:

A purebred Bearded Collie puppy from a reputable breeder can be quite expensive. Always consider adopting from a shelter or rescue.

Initial Cost

$1200 - 2000

Potential Additional Costs:

When searching for a reputable breeder, seek online reviews, and advice from vets, groomers, and fellow Bearded Collie enthusiasts.

Initial supplies like a crate, bed, bowls, collar, and leash can really add up.

Initial Cost

$200 - 500

Potential Additional Costs:

You may already have many of these items at home. Costs will vary depending on your purchase choices.

High-quality dog food and treats for a medium-sized breed.

Estimated Cost

$400 - 800

Potential Additional Costs:

Learn more about the best quality dog food for Bearded Collies.

Bearded Collie have a long, shaggy coat that requires regular grooming.

Estimated Cost

$600 - 1200

Potential Additional Costs:

If you choose to perform simple grooming tasks at home you will need to invest in high-quality grooming supplies, such as dog-safe shampoos, nail trimmers, and haircutting shears.

Bearded Collies require routine vet visits for check-ups, vaccinations, and flea and tick prevention.

Estimated Cost

$500 - 1000

Potential Additional Costs:

The cost of veterinary care can vary widely depending on your geographic location and many other factors. This estimate only represents the cost of wellness care, and does not include any potential illnesses or injuries that may arise.

Pet insurance offers financial protection and peace of mind, ensuring that you can afford necessary veterinary care in the event of an emergency.

Estimated Cost

$200 - 599

Potential Additional Costs:

Insurance premiums vary depending on the coverage you choose as well as your Bearded Collie's age and health. Get a FREE, no-strings quote from the top pet insurers!

Your Bearded Collie will need toys, chews, wellness supplements, car safety equipment, and other supplies throughout their life.

Estimated Cost

$100 - 300

Potential Additional Costs:

Additional supplies can add up depending on the level of care you provide your pup.

Professional training is extremely important, but can add several hundred dollars to the cost of your dog's care.

Estimated Cost

$500 - 2000

Potential Additional Costs:

Online Courses are available and can help you save money.

Setting aside funds for unexpected health issues is always a good idea.

Estimated Cost

Varies based on need

Potential Additional Costs:

Can easily reach into the thousands with surgical costs, IVs, medications and after hours treatment.

If you travel or work long hours, you may need boarding or pet sitting services.

Estimated Cost

Varies based on need

Potential Additional Costs:

Overnight-boarding, day-boarding, and pet-sitting costs vary depending on the area you live, length of stay/frequency of services, and the amenities offered by the boarding facility or pet sitter.

A one-time fee for microchipping and annual local licensing fees.

Estimated Cost

$50 - 100

Total Estimated Annual Cost:

$3750 - $8499

It's important to note that these figures are estimates and can vary. Also, the first year of owning a dog can be more expensive due to one-time costs like spaying/neutering, initial vaccinations, and training. Regular budgeting for your dog's needs and an emergency fund for unforeseen costs are essential for responsible pet ownership.

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