Smithfield vs Bearded Collie - Breed Comparison | MyDogBreeds

Smithfield vs Bearded Collie - Breed ComparisonBoth Smithfield and Bearded Collie are originated from United Kingdom. Both Smithfield and Bearded Collie are having almost same height. Both Smithfield and Bearded Collie are having almost same weight. Both Smithfield and Bearded Collie has almost same life span. Both Smithfield and Bearded Collie has almost same litter size. Smithfield requires Moderate maintenance. But Bearded Collie requires High maintenance

History

smithfield - historyThe Smithfield is also known as the Smithfield, Smithy or Tasmanian Smithfield and is a herding dog found in Australia but originating in the UK. There is also the possibility that there was an Australian dog bred at a place known as Smithfield, near Texas which is just inside the Queensland border.

It is thought by some that the Smithfield is extinct. The dog was first introduced to the Land Down Under in colonial times.

The Smithfield isn’t recognised by the Canine Councils, but in 1862 the first Dog Show was held in Australia.

bearded collie - historyThis long-haired herding breed was bred by mixing the two sheepdog breeds: the Scottish dogs and the Polish sheepdogs. The Bearded Collie gained the popularity during the last century by winning some of the Dog Shows. This friendly dog with the beautiful coat is surely one of the most specific pets. Nowadays, the Bearded Collie is very popular. The organizations for breeding, saving, rescuing and adopting this breed can be found in the USA.

Description

smithfield puppy - descriptionThe Smithfield is a medium to large sized dog, strong and square-bodied with a wedge shaped head. Many people liken his looks to a Bearded Collie.

He has a rough, medium length coat. The coat has different colors such as white, black, grey or reddish brown. The coat is shaggy and in fact they are often clipped to give them a groomed look and to prevent grass and burrs clinging to the coat.

The tail of the dog can either be a natural bobtail or it could have a longer tail. When the tail is long it is carried low with an upward turn at the tip. The ears are mostly floppy and held close to the head.

He stands at between 46 to 53cm in height and weighs between 16 and 25kg. A bright, alert expression is a distinctive feature of the Smithfield.

Temperament:

The Smithfield is an active, robust dog and they have well balanced, stable personalities. They are often described as being laid-back.

You won’t find any signs of shyness or aggression with these dogs and they are known to be gentle and calm. They are self confident and well adjusted and also hard working.

They are devoted and loving to their human family and are also intelligent. When they’ve been trained and socialized they make splendid family pets, wonderful with children, just loving to run and play. These are dogs you can rely on to be consistent in nature.

bearded collie puppy - descriptionThe Beardie is easy to recognize because of the longer hairs on the cheeks, chin and under the lower lip. This medium-sized Bouncing Beardie is usually the great family pet because he is very friendly and loving. This breed is extremely active and they are energetic despite their longer bodies. They grow up to have more than one coat colour, but they are all born one coloured. They always have white or cream markings. This smart dog can be very stubborn and independent, if you keep your dog in a yard, he will use every chance to escape.

Characteristics

smithfield dog - characteristicsThose who have owned a Smithfield love them and say that once you’ve owned one, you’ll want another.

These easy going dogs have all the characteristics necessary to ensure a good pet, playmate and companion. They are devoted to their human family, and given the chance will become a very special 4-legged member of any family who appreciates the friendship a such a dog offers.

Children friendliness

bearded collie dog - characteristicsThe Bouncing Beardie is great with children. They are very playful, jumpy and have generally very sweet and gentle personality. Children love them because they never get tired. If properly socialized, this dog can be the main attraction for any child.

Special talents

Herding, agility shows, obedience competitions, treibball, show dogs, trally...

Adaptability

This breed is very friendly. If your family is about to raise the Bearded Collie, prepare to have a pet that is highly affectionate and bonded with the members of the family. They don’t do well if left alone. They usually don’t bark and they are never destructible, but loneliness somehow triggers odd behaviour with this breed. They are not usually scared of strangers. If they are trained and socialized, you will be able to take your Beardie anywhere you go.

Learning ability

Some say that is very easy to train the Bearded Collie. The rule for this breed is to start the obedience training while they are very small. They are generally very independent, and they will try to do things in their own way. If you start your training early before your Beardie forms this kind of personality, you will have a wonderful pet.

Health Problems

smithfield puppies - health problemsThese dogs enjoy exceptional good health and can reach between 10 and 14 years of age.

You have to be careful with your pet however, because there are quite a few common dog illnesses that can plague your pet, and we look at a few -

Canine Distemper:

This is caused by a contagious virus. Infected dogs develop symptoms such as runny eyes, fever, coughing, vomiting and even seizures. Unfortunately this disease is often fatal. There is luckily a vaccine against it and it is highly recommended for your pet.

Canine parvovirus:

Also a very contagious disease which attacks the gastrointestinal system, causing fever, vomiting and diarrhea. It is often spread by contaminated stools and feeding utensils of dogs. Many dogs die from parvo but there is also a vaccine against it.

Heatstroke:

This is terrible for your pet and is a huge risk for dogs during Summer. Never leave your pet in a car unattended, especially on a hot day. Remember that stub-nosed dogs such as Boxers, Pugs, Bulldogs and Boston Terriers are more prone to respiratory problems and heat can be deadly for them.

bearded collie puppies - health problemsThis breed is generally very healthy. They don’t have some major health issues. Some of the issues that are registered are:

Progressive retinal atrophy

The degenerative disease that causes the blindness.

Thyroid glands diseases

When the hormone produced by the thyroid gland is abnormally low.

Hip dysplasia

That is generally the hereditary disease, can also be caused by bad diet or injuries.

Allergies

To food, chemicals, pollen, dust...

Ear infections

That usually happens because of their dropped ears that are not very easy to clean.

Caring The Pet

Exercise:

smithfield dogs - caringThe Smithfield has plenty of energy and loves nothing more than lots of games with the children. He will also look forward to a walk every day as well as other activities.

Grooming:

When it comes to grooming, you can save money by grooming your dog at home. Whether you have your pet’s hair cut or you leave it as is, get into the habit of brushing the fur at least twice a week. You can speak to your vet or groomer and get advice on what comb of brush to use on your Smithfield.

It you want to cut your pet’s hair, it is important to use the right equipment so you don't accidentally injure him. Certainly if you feel unsure about shaving your dog at home, leave this grooming aspect to the experts.

Have your pet’s nails trimmed.

Check your pet’s eyes. They must be clear and bright. Check inside his mouth for bad teeth. Check inside his ears to make sure they aren’t red with infection.

Diet:

Your Smithfield is relying on you to provide him with good food. For convenience, it is always a good idea to have a packet of the best dry kibble there is. Check out the label and make sure to buy one that has a good balance of vitamins and minerals.

Give him some tasty homemade food too. Remember to keep it plain and simple. Boiled chicken, brown rice or pasta and spinach, sweet potatoes and carrots are nutritious and tasty. This food can all be chopped up and small portions added to the dry kibble twice a week as a treat.

You’ll never have to worry about digestion problems with your dog. A little bit of raw meat can also go a long way to ensuring his skin stays healthy and free of skin infections. Ensure that he has a constant supply of fresh, cool water.

Diet tips

bearded collie dogs - caringRaising your Bearded Collie pup on a high-quality food is usually enough for a puppy. Make sure that portions are appropriate for his age and weight. Once your pet is more than six months old, they will need only two meals per day. They get obese very easy. Don’t train them with the treats.

Tips for good health

To care for your Bearded Collie, you must be aware of the grooming responsibilities that come with this longhaired pet. During the shedding period, it is required to brush them daily. Bathing is not a regular necessity but it will be easier to keep him clean and well groomed if you care about your pet all the time. Some people like to shorten the coat for their Beardie, and it is usually done during summer. Make sure to take him to regular ear, eye, teeth and hip vet checks.

Tips for games and exercises

The Bearded Collie is a breed that requires daily activity. They have very playful nature and they love to run, play and spend time outdoors. The best option will be a big yard so that Beardie can run for hours without the leash.

Basic Information

Group:
Herding dogs
Herding dogs
Origin:
United Kingdom
United Kingdom
Height Male:
46 - 53 cm
18 - 21 inches
50 - 55 cm
19 - 22 inches
Height Female:
46 - 53 cm
18 - 21 inches
50 - 55 cm
19 - 22 inches
Weight Male:
16 - 25 kg
35 - 56 pounds
20 - 27 kg
44 - 60 pounds
Weight Female:
16 - 25 kg
35 - 56 pounds
18 - 25 kg
39 - 56 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 14 Years
12 - 15 Years
Litter Size:
3 - 8
5 - 10
Size:
Medium dog
Medium dog
Other Names:
Smithy, Tasmanian Smithfield
Beardie, Bouncing Beardie
Colors Available:
grey or reddish brown., black, White
Black, brown, fawn. Usually with white or cream marks.
Coat:
Medium length, rough shaggy
Harsh outer coat and soft undercoa
Shedding:
Minimal
Seasonal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Docile, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Territorial
Affectionate, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Loving, Outgoing, Playful, Stubborn
Grooming:
Moderate maintenance
High maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Smithfield vs Pembroke Welsh Corgi - Breed Comparison
  2. Smithfield vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  3. Smithfield vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) - Breed Comparison
  4. Smithfield vs Australian Cattle Dog - Breed Comparison
  5. Smithfield vs Bearded Collie - Breed Comparison
  6. Smithfield vs Collie - Breed Comparison
  7. Smithfield vs Austrailian Blue Heeler - Breed Comparison
  8. Smithfield vs Dutch Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  9. Smithfield vs Blue Healer - Breed Comparison
  10. Smithfield vs English Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  11. Smithfield vs Australian Collie - Breed Comparison
  12. Smithfield vs Catahoula Cur - Breed Comparison
  13. Smithfield vs Australian Red Heeler - Breed Comparison
  14. Smithfield vs Catalan Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  15. Smithfield vs Pyrenean Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  16. Smithfield vs Bergamasco - Breed Comparison
  17. Smithfield vs Berger Picard - Breed Comparison
  18. Smithfield vs Appenzell Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  19. Smithfield vs Queensland Heeler - Breed Comparison
  20. Smithfield vs German Coolie - Breed Comparison
  21. Smithfield vs Bohemian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  22. Smithfield vs Croatian Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  23. Smithfield vs Red Heeler - Breed Comparison
  24. Smithfield vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) - Breed Comparison
  25. Smithfield vs Blue Lacy - Breed Comparison
  26. Pembroke Welsh Corgi vs Bearded Collie - Breed Comparison
  27. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) vs Bearded Collie - Breed Comparison
  28. Bearded Collie vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  29. Bearded Collie vs Australian Cattle Dog - Breed Comparison
  30. Bearded Collie vs Austrailian Blue Heeler - Breed Comparison
  31. Bearded Collie vs Australian Collie - Breed Comparison
  32. Bearded Collie vs Australian Red Heeler - Breed Comparison
  33. Bearded Collie vs Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog - Breed Comparison
  34. Collie vs Bearded Collie - Breed Comparison
  35. Dutch Shepherd vs Bearded Collie - Breed Comparison
  36. Blue Healer vs Bearded Collie - Breed Comparison
  37. English Shepherd vs Bearded Collie - Breed Comparison
  38. Catahoula Cur vs Bearded Collie - Breed Comparison
  39. Catalan Sheepdog vs Bearded Collie - Breed Comparison
  40. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Bearded Collie - Breed Comparison
  41. Bergamasco vs Bearded Collie - Breed Comparison
  42. Berger Picard vs Bearded Collie - Breed Comparison
  43. Appenzell Mountain Dog vs Bearded Collie - Breed Comparison
  44. Queensland Heeler vs Bearded Collie - Breed Comparison
  45. German Coolie vs Bearded Collie - Breed Comparison
  46. Bohemian Shepherd vs Bearded Collie - Breed Comparison
  47. Croatian Sheepdog vs Bearded Collie - Breed Comparison
  48. Red Heeler vs Bearded Collie - Breed Comparison
  49. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) vs Bearded Collie - Breed Comparison
  50. Blue Lacy vs Bearded Collie - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds