Bearded Collie

Bearded Collies are fluffy sheepdogs from Scotland known for their endless energy. These dogs are of medium size, featuring a slim build and a beautiful coat that has a unique split, comparable to the finest hair of a supermodel. Their faces may show age, but their eyes sparkle with joy, and they move with enthusiasm. Always eager for fun, the gentle and caring Bearded Collie enjoys being part of family activities.

Quick Info

Size
Medium
Colours
Black, blue, reddish-fawn, all shades of gray, brown, and sandy; with or without white markings
Lifespan
14 to 15 years
Height
20 to 22 inches
Type
Herding
Hypoallergenic
no
Weight
40 to 62 pounds
Family
Herding

Personality

Bearded Collies are full of energy and love meeting new people and animals. These friendly and loving dogs are always ready to make their owners happy and enjoy learning new things. They thrive with active owners since they have lots of energy and love to stay active in any kind of weather. Smart and curious, Bearded Collies can quickly lose interest in dull activities, so keeping them engaged is important for their happiness.

History

The Bearded Collie probably originated from Polish Lowland Sheepdogs that arrived in Scotland in the 1500s. These dogs gained popularity among the wealthy, particularly in the Victorian Era, but their main role was as working dogs, herding sheep in the Scottish Highlands. Shepherds appreciated them for their strong work ethic and skill in handling the hilly terrain.

Ideal Owner

The best owners for Bearded Collies are just as lively as the dogs themselves. They should be eager to train, engage in fun activities, play, and take long walks. Since Bearded Collies have a unique coat, it's important for owners to like grooming and have a specific area for it or be ready to hire a professional groomer. These dogs thrive in open spaces, so living in the countryside is ideal for letting them run around and use up their energy.

Exercise Needs

Bearded Collies are lively and spirited dogs that thrive on being active. They prefer to be outside, no matter the weather. These dogs love to keep themselves occupied by playing fetch, going for walks, and having fun in a spacious yard with their human or dog companions. They are great at herding, agility, and following commands.

Space Requirements

The Bearded Collie is a dog breed known for its thick, long fur that tends to trap dirt, water, and other particles. It's important for owners to set up a special area for washing their dogs and letting them dry, which can take some time due to the heavy coats. These dogs also need a safe, fenced yard for playing and exploring, along with different spots for walks on a leash. They thrive in the countryside and are happiest in rural or suburban settings.

Training

Herding dogs were created to operate on their own, which can make training a Bearded Collie a bit tricky due to their slight stubbornness. Nevertheless, using patience, rewards, and plenty of treats is essential for training this breed. They are smart and quick thinkers who love to learn. Beardies tend to lose interest quickly, so the more enjoyable and varied the training activities are, the more successful it will be.

Grooming

Bearded Collies don’t lose a lot of hair, but they need regular brushing to get rid of knots and dirt from their long fur. Pet owners should also have a sturdy comb and some anti-tangle spray handy to keep their dogs’ coats looking great and to eliminate loose hairs. Giving them a full bath can be a challenge since their thick fur takes a long time to dry.

Suitability for Family Life

Bearded Collies are great companions for families ready to invest time in their exercise and grooming needs. These dogs enjoy herding and treat young kids and animals alike, making them a good fit for families with older kids or those without children.

Did You know?

Bearded Collies have been featured in movies and TV series like “The Shaggy Dog” and “The Brady Bunch.”

Similar Breeds

Need to Know

Dog suitable for owners with some experience
Basic training required
Enjoys active walks
Can be left alone with training
Large dog
Some drool
Requires frequent grooming
Chatty and vocal dog