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Bearded Collie
The Bearded Collie was
traditionally used as a working sheep dog, but now makes an
excellent companion animal.
History:
It is likely that the
ancestors of the Collies came to Great Britain with the Romans
about 500 BC, but it is the Scottish who are attributed with
starting the breed. The Collie breeds were further developed
by cross-breeding them with (perhaps) the Newfoundland and
even Deerhound; then, more recently, the Bearded Collie was
selectively bred for its own special characteristics.
Physical
characteristics:
The Bearded Collie is a
medium-sized dog whose shaggy coat masks a quite athletic
animal. Height: 20 - 22 in (51 - 56 cm). Weight: 45 - 55 lb
(20.4 - 25 kg). This Collie both stands and then runs with a
special dignity and grace. It has light brown almond-shaped
eyes with a broad head that tapers out to broad-based,
shaggily furred and hanging ears. The Bearded Collie has a
body resembling that of a lighter version of an Old English
Sheepdog, except that it does have a tail.
Behavior:
The Bearded Collie is normally
a gentle and confident dog with a stable temperament. It was
bred to shepherd sheep and it still retains a strong chase
reflex. When training, the distractions of other movement
should be avoided.
The
Bearded Collie can make an excellent watch-dog, as it has a
powerful bark to deter would-be intruders. It usually gets
along well with other dogs, but will readily accept people as
a substitute.
Most
often the Bearded Collie will make an excellent companion
animal, and will welcome the attention and games that children
play. However, although these dogs are slow to reach their
maximum tolerance level, they can still be snappy under
extreme provocation.
The
Bearded Collie is a dog that loves to please and receive the
attention of its owner. Although this dog will be content to
be a companion animal, it will truly thrive if it is given
work or other energetic activities to carry out.
As
little air gets to circulate under its long ears, they should
be regularly cleaned to avoid any infections. After this
Collie has been working or exercising vigorously, the feet
should also be checked to retain their healthy condition.
This hardy dog copes well with
the cold and only requires a simple kennel. If it is routinely
kept indoors or in hotter climates, it may shed more fur and
so require frequent grooming.
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