Enjoy this guide and overview with a lot of tips for new and existing owners of Beardoodles.

Beardoodles, also known as Beardiepoos, are the delightful union between a Bearded Collie and usually a standard or miniature poodle. Infused with intelligence and a captivating charm, Beardoodles adapt seamlessly to various environments, embodying the best of both their parent breeds.

History of Beardoodles

The enchanting Beardoodle is a blend of the Bearded Collie’s legacy and the Poodle’s elegance. But before delving into the inception of the Beardoodle, it’s essential to pay homage to its regal ancestor, the Bearded Collie.

Tracing its origins back to Scotland, the Bearded Collie, often fondly referred to as “Beardie,” boasts a rich tapestry of history. The ancestors of the Bearded Collie are believed to have come with the Polish Lowland Sheepdogs, which were bartered with Scottish shepherds in the 1500s. Their primary role was to herd sheep and cattle, and they were revered for their boundless energy, intelligence, and resilience in the rugged Scottish highlands.

Beardies are not just about work; their effervescent charm and unmistakable cascading locks have won many hearts in dog shows and families alike. Their adaptable nature, combined with their enthusiasm, made them stand out. They’re entertainers, workers, and companions all rolled into one, with a lineage proudly reflective of their hardworking nature and gentle disposition.

The Emergence of the Beardoodle

With the rise in popularity of designer dogs in the late 20th century, breeders explored combinations that could offer the Poodle’s intelligence, elegance, and hypoallergenic qualities. The Poodle’s history of being circus performers and truffle hunters in France aligned well with the Beardie’s energetic, herding background. Both breeds shared an aptitude for learning, adaptability, and a penchant for affection.

Thus, the Beardoodle was born—a blend of the hardy, lively nature of the Bearded Collie and the hypoallergenic, refined qualities of the Poodle. The aim was clear: create a breed that encapsulates the spirit and vitality of the Beardie while benefiting from the Poodle’s minimal shedding and health qualities.

This delightful crossbreed is a testament to the lineage of two remarkable breeds. A perfect concoction of history, vigor, and elegance; the Beardoodle is more than just a designer dog—it’s a celebration of legacy and innovation.

Selecting a Beardoodle (Beardiepoo) Doodle Dog

Choosing a Beardoodle as your companion is an exciting journey, but it’s essential to consider various facets before making that final decision. Here are some invaluable pointers for potential or current Beardoodle enthusiasts:

Beardoodles inherit traits from both the Bearded Collie and the Poodle. Familiarizing yourself with both breeds’ characteristics will give you a broader understanding of the potential temperament, size, and care needs of your Beardoodle.

Look for breeders who conduct health screenings, provide a clean environment for the puppies, and are knowledgeable about the breed’s specific needs.

If someone in your household has allergies, you might want to lean towards a Beardoodle with a more Poodle-like coat, known for being hypoallergenic.

Both the Bearded Collie and the Poodle are known for their friendly and intelligent natures. However, individual Beardoodles can have varied personalities. Spend time with the puppy or dog before deciding to ensure a good match with your family’s dynamics.

While many seek breeders, don’t forget about Beardoodles in shelters or rescue organizations. Adopting a Beardoodle can be immensely rewarding. Not only do you give a dog a second chance, but adopted dogs often come with the advantage of being housetrained and having some basic training.

Reputable Doodle Dog Rescue Organizations USA

Beardoodles generally get along well with children and other pets. However, it’s always wise to observe interactions before making a commitment, especially if you have other animals at home.

Selecting the right Beardoodle is not just about matching a cute face with a harmonious blend of lifestyle, commitment, and love. Remember, a Beardoodle is not just a pet but a family member who will bring joy, laughter, and warmth into your life.

Size and Lifespan of Beardoodles

If the Bearded Collie is bred with a Standard Poodle, you can expect a larger Beardoodle. These pups generally stand between 20 and 24 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh anywhere from 45 to 70 pounds.

When a Bearded Collie is paired with a Miniature Poodle, the resulting Beardoodle typically measures between 16 and 20 inches in height. Their weight range is 30 to 45 pounds.

Beardoodles generally have a lifespan of 12 to 15 years.

Benefits of Pet Insurance for Doodle Dogs

Health and Maintenance of Beardoodles

The Beardoodle, being a mix of the Bearded Collie and Poodle, inherits health concerns and maintenance needs from both parents.

Health Concerns:

• Hip Dysplasia: Both Bearded Collies and Poodles can be prone to hip dysplasia, a hereditary condition where the hip joint doesn’t fit into the hip socket properly. This can lead to arthritis or even lameness if left untreated.
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): This is an eye condition that can lead to blindness. Regular eye checkups can help with early detection and management.
• Addison’s Disease: Common in Poodles, this disease affects the adrenal glands.
• Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland produces insufficient hormones.
• Collie Eye Anomaly: A genetic condition from the Bearded Collie lineage that can affect vision It’s essential to have regular vet eye exams to catch this early.

Required Vaccinations for Doodle Dogs

Maintenance Needs: Grooming, bathing, dental hygiene, regular exercise, and a quality diet are all crucial to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Given the Beardoodle’s potential for hip dysplasia, foods fortified with joint-supporting supplements like glucosamine can be beneficial.

Remember, every Beardoodle is unique. Regular check-ups with a veterinarian and being attentive to any changes in behavior or appearance will ensure that you catch potential health issues early. The more proactive you are about their health and maintenance, the happier and healthier your Beardoodle will be.

Personality and Behavioral Traits of Beardoodles

The Beardoodle combines the vivacious spirit of the Bearded Collie with the intelligence and affectionate nature of the Poodle. This mix often results in a lively, clever, and loving dog, but individual temperaments can vary. Understanding the potential range of behavioral traits is essential for prospective and current owners alike.

Traits

• Intelligence and Trainability: Beardoodles often inherit the sharp wit of both parent breeds. They are quick learners but can be equally stubborn at times. Consistent, positive reinforcement training methods work best. These dogs thrive on mental stimulation, so interactive toys, agility training, or even herding activities (a nod to their Bearded Collie lineage) can be quite beneficial.

• Social Nature: Beardoodles generally have an affable nature. They usually get along well with other dogs and animals, especially if socialized early. They can be somewhat reserved with strangers but are rarely aggressive.

• Interaction with Children: Beardoodles, with their playful and gentle disposition, can be great companions for children. However, like all dogs, they should be supervised when interacting with younger kids to ensure that play doesn’t become too rough. Their herding instincts might also mean they “herd” children during play, which should be monitored and corrected if necessary.

• Suitability for Seniors: Their moderate activity level and affectionate nature can make Beardoodles good companions for seniors. However, their size and potential for sudden bursts of energy might be too much for some elderly individuals, so it’s essential to match the dog’s energy with the owner’s capabilities.

• Apartment Living vs. House with Yard: While they can adapt to apartment living if given enough exercise, Beardoodles would ideally have access to a medium-to-large yard where they can run and play freely. If you live in an apartment, it’s crucial to commit to daily walks and play sessions to keep your Beardoodle content.

• Sensitivity: Beardoodles can be somewhat sensitive, picking up on and reacting to the moods of their owners. A stressed or upset owner might find their Beardoodle acting more subdued or anxious. It’s essential to provide a calm environment and positive reinforcement when training or correcting behaviors.

• Barking and Watchdog Tendencies: The Bearded Collie lineage means your Beardoodle might be vocal, especially if they spot someone unfamiliar approaching their home. Proper training can help manage excessive barking.

• Adaptability: Their mixed breed lineage generally makes Beardoodles adaptable to various environments, from city living to country life. However, extreme climates might not be ideal; their coats can get hot in the summer, and they might not enjoy very cold winters.

12 Tips for Socializing Doodle Dogs

Free online workshop to train your Beardoodle to behave like a well-trained service dog

Nutrition and Diet for Beardoodles

Like all breeds, Beardoodles flourish best when provided with a well-balanced diet. Given their energetic nature and intelligence, these dogs benefit from a nutrient-rich diet to support both physical and cognitive functions. The guidelines provided below are a great starting point for feeding your Beardoodle:

Nutrition:

1. Avoid dog food with artificial additives, fillers, or by-products. These can lead to digestive issues and a lack of the essential nutrients your beardoodle needs.
2. Look for food with healthy fats, quality protein sources, and balanced carbohydrates: Ingredients like fish oil, chicken, lamb, and brown rice are beneficial.
3. Choose quality food that meets the standards of the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) Guidelines: This ensures your Beardoodle is getting a diet that’s nutritionally balanced for their life stage.
4. Consider Dietary Needs Specific to Beardoodles: Due to the Bearded Collie lineage, Beardoodles might sometimes be prone to certain digestive issues or food sensitivities. It’s worthwhile to look for dog food brands that offer sensitive stomach formulas or hypoallergenic recipes if your Beardoodle shows signs of digestive distress.

Feeding:

1. Feed your Beardoodle based on their age, size, and activity level: Puppy, adult, and senior dogs have different nutritional needs.
2. Until they are 6 months old, puppies should be fed 3 to 4 times a day: After that, switch to feeding them twice a day.
3. For adult Beardoodles, you can feed them twice a day or follow your veterinarian’s recommendations: As they are typically active dogs, ensure they’re getting enough calories to match their energy levels.
4. Adjust the food quantity depending on your dog’s specific needs: Weight management, activity levels, and health concerns can alter the amount of food they require.
5. Consult the feeding guidelines on the dog food package or consult with your veterinarian for the appropriate amount to feed your Beardoodle.
6. Be mindful of treats and overfeeding: Treats should not make up more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake. Given the Beardoodle’s intelligence and training potential, they might be given treats more frequently during training sessions. Opt for healthy treats, and be sure to factor these into their daily food intake.
7. Always provide fresh water for your Beardoodle: This cannot be stressed enough. Fresh water aids digestion, keeps your dog hydrated, and supports overall health.

Free Homemade Food Recipes for Doodle Dogs

Each Beardoodle is unique, and while these guidelines provide a robust starting point, individual dogs may have specific dietary needs. Regular check-ups with your veterinarian, monitoring your dog’s weight, and being aware of their overall health are essential in ensuring they receive the proper nutrition for their needs.

Average Cost to Purchase a Beardoodle and Annual Costs

The Beardoodle, being a mix of the Bearded Collie and Poodle, has garnered attention for its unique blend of characteristics. Location, parentage, breeder reputation, and other specifics like coat color and size can all have an impact on the price of this designer breed.

Purchase Cost:

• On average, in the United States, Beardoodles are priced between $1,500 and $4,500. Dogs from champion bloodlines or with specific desired traits might fetch prices at the higher end of this range.

Annual Costs:

• Raising a Beardoodle includes ongoing expenses such as food, grooming (especially given their potential for a longer coat), regular veterinary care, training, and various supplies like toys, beds, leashes, and more.
• Annual costs for a Beardoodle in the U.S. are estimated to range from $1,200 to $1,800. This estimate considers the high grooming needs of the breed and potential health check-ups.

List of items needed for preparing for your Doodle Dog

Grooming a Beardoodle

The Beardoodle, with its unique blend of the Bearded Collie and Poodle genes, often boasts a distinct and charismatic appearance that draws attention and admiration. Proper grooming is paramount to ensuring this hybrid breed looks and feels its best.

Appearance and Coat Types:
Beardoodles typically sport a medium-to-long, dense coat that can vary from wavy to curly, depending on the genetic influence of the Poodle parent. This coat type gives them a fluffy, almost cloud-like appearance, enhancing their charm.

Coat Colors:
Their coats can manifest in various shades, mirroring the diverse color palettes of both parent breeds. Common colors include black, blue, brown, and fawn, sometimes combined with white markings. It’s not unusual to find Beardoodles with a merle or spotted pattern.

General Coat Care:
Given the potential length and thickness of their coat, regular brushing—at least 3 to 4 times a week—is crucial to prevent matting and tangling. Detangling sprays can be beneficial, especially if their coat leans more toward the wavy side

Professional Grooming:
Considering the potential complexity of their coat, periodic visits to a professional groomer—every 6 to 8 weeks—are recommended. This ensures they get a thorough wash, trim, and any other essential treatments to keep their coat in optimal condition.

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