Arlin Bearded Collies

The following information has been compiled from the website media of the AKC, BCCA, and other Bearded Collie internet sites which provide public written information on the breed. 

We at Arlin Bearded Collies strongly recommend researching these sites and other resources for more details on this wonderful breed, "The Bearded Collie" . 

When you have an opportunity - PLEASE Meet the Breed - Up Close and Personal.  

We take the placement of our Beardies seriously and are dedicated to protecting them and insuring to the placement of this wonderful breed in only a "forever home".

Owning a Bearded Collie, as with any companion pet, is a life long committment and not to be entered into lightly. 

  Bearded Collie

Characteristics

The Bearded Collie is hardy and active, with an aura of strength and agility characteristic of a real working dog. Bred for centuries as a companion and servant of man, the Bearded Collie is a devoted and intelligent member of the family. He is stable and self-confident, showing no signs of shyness or aggression. This is a  natural and unspoiled breed.

General Appearance

The Bearded Collie is a medium sized dog with a medium length coat that follows the natural line of the body and allows plenty of daylight under the body. The body is long and lean, and, though strongly made, does not appear heavy. A bright inquiring expression is a distinctive feature of the breed. The Bearded Collie should be shown in a natural stance.

Coat

The coat is double with the undercoat soft, furry and close. The outercoat is flat, harsh, strong and shaggy, free from wooliness and curl, although a slight wave is permissible. The coat falls naturally to either side but must never be artificially parted. The length and density of the hair are sufficient to provide a protective coat and to enhance the shape of the dog, but not so profuse as to obscure the natural lines of the body. The dog should be shown as naturally as is consistent with good grooming but the coat must not be trimmed in any way. On the head, the bridge of the nose is sparsely covered with hair which is slightly longer on the sides to cover the lips. From the cheeks, the lower lips and under the chin, the coat increases in length towards the chest, forming the typical beard. An excessively long, silky coat or one which has been trimmed in any way must be severely penalized.

Color

Coat: - All Bearded Collies are born either black, blue, brown or fawn, with or without white markings. With maturity, the coat color may lighten, so that a born black may become any shade of gray from black to slate to silver, a born brown from chocolate to sandy. Blues and fawns also show shades from dark to light.

The ideal height at the withers is 21-22 inches for adult dogs and 20-21 inches for adult bitches.  Height over and under the ideal is to be severely penalized.

Temperment: 

The Bearded Collie has an air of cheerful, happy-go-lucky, tail-wagging humor. They are affectionate, playful and lively, they can make a perfect companion for children. They love to be with their people. An unexercised Beardie who is left alone without anything to do will not be happy, and you may not be happy with what they do while you are gone. If you must leave them, be sure to take them for a long walk prior to leaving.  Known for their "bounce,", the Beardie is exuberant and high-energy and without enough daily mental and physical exercise, they may get themselves into mischief.  Beardies are very trainable for many activities. An owner who displays a natural authority is a must as Beardies think a lot and could become headstrong if he sees you as meek. One needs to be calm, but firm, confident and consistent when dealing with this dog. Set the rules you wish the dog to follow and stick to them. Obedience training is recommended. The Beardie is a natural herder of people and animals. They can be noisy barkers, but are not watch dogs. They should not be shy or agressive. When well balanced between leadership and exercise they will be stable and self-confident.

Training:

Beardies require early Socialization and Training.  Beardies respond best to POSITIVER REINFORCEMENT TRAINING.  Hard core training techniques will seriously affect their spirit, if not completely extinguish their love and dedication; and stifle their innate personality to please their human family. 

REMEMBER not all trainers know and understand the learning of a Bearded Collie, let alone know how to train with Positive Reinforcement.  The Beardie is not just another dog.  This breed has a spirit and soul, like none other.  Once you have made earned that bond with a Beardie, you will feel the connection in your heart and your future together will be a once and a life time experience. 

Origin of the Bearded Collie (HERDING GROUP)

The Bearded Collie originated in Britain and is one of the country's oldest breeds. The foundation of the breed was started in 1514 when a Polish sea captain made a trade with a local Scottish shepherd. He traded three of his Polish Sheepdog (PON) for a ram and a ewe. The shepherd then bred these dogs with other herding and flock dogs such as the Old English Sheepdog and teh Komondor. The dogs were used as herding dogs for centuries in Scotland and became known as the "Highland Collie", the "Highland Sheepdog" and the "Hairy Moved Collie". They were excellent workers, herding sheep and cattle for local shepherds. The name "Bearded" comes from the long hairs which grow on the chin making the dog look like he has a beard and the name "Collie" is the Scottish word for herding dog. The Bearded Collie almost became extinct during the second world war. In 1944 Mrs. G. O. Willison from Great Britain bred a pair of Bearded Collies resurrecting the breed. In 1967 the first litter of Beardies was whelped in the USA. The breed was first recognized by the AKC in 1976. They are still to this day considered a rare breed. Some of the Beardie's talents are tracking, herding, agility, competitive obedience, and performing tricks.

LINKS of Interest and Education:

http://beardie.net/bcca/About_Beardies/faq1.htm