Welcome to the wacky world of Bearded Collies! These floofy furballs are full of energy and charm, ready to steal your heart and your socks. Let's dive into the fun facts and fabulous traits of this lovable breed.

Bearded Collie Basics

Average Lifespan: 14-15 years

Average Weight: 18-27 kg

Average Height: 51-56 cm

Colouring: Black, blue, brown, or fawn, typically with white markings

Trainability: Highly trainable, intelligent, and eager to please

Exercise Needs: High, requires regular and vigorous exercise

Shedding: Moderate, with heavy seasonal shedding

Origins of the Bearded Collie

The Bearded Collie, or "Beardie" as they're affectionately called, hails from the rugged Scottish Highlands. Originally bred as herding dogs, Beardies were the trusty sidekicks of Scottish shepherds. With their keen intelligence and boundless energy, they were perfect for managing flocks in the challenging terrain. Over time, these clever canines made their way into homes and hearts around the world.

The breed's lineage can be traced back to the 16th century, with references in Scottish literature. They were known as the Highland Collie or Mountain Collie before getting their current name. Their ability to work independently and make decisions was highly valued by farmers, making them indispensable in the harsh climates of Scotland.

What Do Bearded Collies Look Like?

Picture a fluffy cloud with legs – that's your Bearded Collie! Their long, flowing coats come in various colours, including black, blue, brown, and fawn, often accented with white. They've got a double coat, which means there's an undercoat that's soft and fuzzy and an outer coat that's more weather-resistant. This coat gives them their iconic "beard," adding to their adorable and distinctive look.

Beardies typically have a lively, expressive face with dark eyes that exude warmth and intelligence. Their tails are set low and carried with a slight curve, and their ears are medium-sized, lying flat against their heads. This combination of features gives them a unique and charming appearance, making them stand out in any crowd.

Bearded Collie Personality

Beardies are known for their friendly and bouncy personalities. They're always up for a game or a cuddle and have a knack for making everyone around them smile. These dogs are smart as a whip and love to learn new tricks – perfect for impressing your mates at the park. Their loyalty and affectionate nature make them excellent family pets, but be prepared for lots of playtime!

Bearded Collies are also known for their sense of humour. They often engage in playful antics to entertain themselves and their families. Whether it's zooming around the garden or play-bowing to invite a game, their cheerful disposition is infectious.

Do Bearded Collies Shed a Lot?

Yes, these fluffy buddies do shed, especially during seasonal changes. To keep your home from looking like a snow globe, regular grooming is a must. Brush their coat several times a week to manage shedding and prevent matting. And during those heavy shedding times, daily brushing can help keep the fur flurries under control.

Beyond shedding, grooming a Bearded Collie involves regular baths and trimming around their ears, paws, and tail to keep them looking neat. Despite the maintenance, many owners find the grooming routine to be a bonding experience, enjoying the quality time spent with their furry friend.

How Much Exercise Do Bearded Collies Need?

Beardies are like furry energiser bunnies – they need plenty of exercise to stay happy. Aim for at least an hour of vigorous activity every day. They love running, hiking, and playing fetch. Without enough exercise, they might get a bit cheeky and find their own (often mischievous) ways to burn off energy.

Mental stimulation is equally important for this intelligent breed. Interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and training sessions can help keep their minds sharp. Participating in dog sports like agility, obedience, or herding trials can also be a great way to channel their energy and showcase their talents.

Bearded Collie Feeding Requirements

Feeding your Bearded Collie a balanced diet is key to keeping them in excellent shape. Their meals should include high-quality protein, healthy fats, and a mix of vitamins and minerals. Adjust portion sizes based on their age, weight, and activity level to prevent obesity. A healthy diet will keep their coats shiny and their tails wagging.

Beardies can be prone to food allergies, so it's essential to choose a diet that suits their specific needs. Grain-free options and foods free from common allergens like soy, dairy, and eggs can help prevent digestive issues and keep them feeling their best. Fresh water should always be available to keep them hydrated, especially after exercise.

Scrumbles, the Pawfect Food for Bearded Collies

Our food is crafted to keep your Bearded Collie healthy and happy. Here’s why they’ll love it:

• Up to 70% meat or fish for protein-packed meals
• Added prebiotics for healthy digestion and probiotics to support their immune system
• Hypoallergenic, free from common allergens like gluten, soy, dairy, egg, and red meat
• Grain-free options for allergies and sensitive tummies
• A variety of flavours including chicken, turkey, duck, and salmon

So, why wait? Give Scrumbles a try today and let your Bearded Collie enjoy tasty, nutritious meals that will keep them bright-eyed and waggy-tailed!

Is a Bearded Collie Right for You?

Bearded Collies are bundles of joy and energy. They fit best in active households where they get plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Their friendly and loyal nature makes them great with kids and other pets, but be ready for a dog that needs lots of attention and playtime. If you're up for the challenge and the fun, a Bearded Collie could be the perfect furry friend for you.