We would like to get a beardie as our second dog. We currently have a 7 month old TT. What can people tell me about this breed?

We won't be getting one yet probably sring/summer next year.

What would you like to know? They are an exhubarant dog who prefer a lot of exercise, rather than lying about. Most are very clever, and learn quickly, though this means that they can learn the wrong things quickly too. Their coats need looking after/ good grooming. Some "can" be bouncy, they tend to get along well with other dogs/ people, though of course there are exceptions. Most are extremely friendly and love companionship.  They are a long lived breed (14-15 years average). You should only buy from breeders who have their dogs/bitches hip scored, and preferably eye tested also. When you are ready to get one, try getting in touch with the breed clubs secretaries, who will be able to put you in touch with puppy list holders/ breeders who have puppies available.
If you want any more info, PM me. Best of luck

Kay
Kayanarra

my friend has a beardie which is a lovely friendly calm dog, which enjoys a lot of running around and games. the coat does take a lot of care he says. Out of interest, his dog barks a lot, is this inherant of the breed or a lack of training?

They are great dogs, a friend has two :)

2 things that stick out; yes, they do bark a lot, and also yes, all that coat picks up bracken, brambles, mud, etc etc and watch out if they get diarrhoea!!   Not kidding about the coat as we spend part of each walk pulling out brambles so you will need to be patient. However, I guess if you walk them on grass you wouldn't really have that problem.

I must admit it's the coat care that would put me off ;)

Lots of hard work with the coat, like a TT but multiply the size by 3.  I have both breeds and they get along great.  I will PM you with all the reasons why not to own a Beardie and If you are not put off come and see how mine get on.

Thankyou for email - interesting reading but no I am not put off!

I do understand they will need lots of groming but I do have time for that. I also understand they need lots of excerise but am used to that with TT.

I am going to a show soon at malvern (?) and will be looking at them there - anyone going to be there?

Glad you're not put off.  They are great together. We were at Malvern a little while ago and our next shows are Windsor and Paignton.  Are you able to get to either of them?

I have a beardie in my puppy class at the moment, just finished, and moving into the Junior class this week.

Would agree with the "very bouncy" description.  A very "busy" or high energy dog, from what I can see. 

People should remember, although they "can" be bouncy, owners shouldn't let them get too exhubarant and out of control, as some do. Mine can be bouncy with certain people, but are mostly under control . My first Beardie was so calm, but bounced a lot when I showed her, licked the judges, and everyone else she could get to, she just loved the attention. I have two Beardies at home at the moment, and one is very barky at times, mostly in the house (takes after her mum). They were originally used for droving, and therefore did not work closely with humans, more at a distance, where barking was useful, so it may come from that. Most people will notice that at a show, most Beardie folk don't clap the class winners. This is not because we are a miserable lot, it's just that the next class waiting to go in would be bouncing/ barking with a bit too much enthusiasm if we clapped . They are truly a lovely breed to own, as long as you have the time to put in with them, keep them occupied, exercised, groomed etc, like a lot of other breeds. They are not a breed for everyone.

Kay

Liked the bit about not clapping the class winners, doesn't take much to get them up on their toes does it?.

I just read on an American Judges site something to the effect of 'If you can't cope with the wet kisses at shoulder height and a tongue in your ear just don't fuss the Beardies'

So True!

Don't you just love 'em.