Originating from Scotland, the Bearded Collie was used to herding cattle and sheep regardless of the terrain or weather.
They make excellent working sheepdogs, family pets, and show dogs. Sheep farmers were the first ones to breed this breed.
You can easily identify a Bearded Collie in a crowd of dogs by looking at its long, straight coat. Keep reading to learn some amazing facts about this breed.
About The Breed
Bearded Collie loves freedom, and if you lock it inside the house, it can lead to useless barking in the future. They need to be kept in fenced yards to play and train them.
They have headstrong personalities, so early obedience training can help.
These dogs bark when they see someone coming to you, but they don’t have a history as guard dogs. They will try to escape if they feel bored.
They live a long life of 12 to 14 years, so this dog is going to be your companion for a long time.
They also bark when they feel excitement or happiness. They look cute when they are puppies but need to be controlled.
Bearded Collie Dog Breed History
Bearded Collies are known to be in existence for a long time. They also go by the name Hairy Mou’ed Collie, i.e., the Mountain Collie.
Sheep farmers bred them for herding, so there’s no exact record of their history. It’s said in the 1500s a Polish Merchant traded Polish Lowland Merchant Dogs during his visit to Scotland.
These dogs’ breeding must be done with local sheepdogs to produce the Bearded Collie.
Their role is of farm dogs from the beginning, and it’s still the same. They do something interesting called “beardie bounce.” This is done to spot their stock while herding undercover.
Bearded collies have also acted in several movies and Disney shows, and you might spot them as well from now on.
Their working abilities made their survival possible, shepherds. G.O. Willson should be credited for the development of the modern version of this breed.
After World War II, she started their breeding show ring.
This breed’s entry into the U.S. was made during the late 1950s, but they weren’t bred. In 1967, the first litter of this breed was born. By 1969, Bearded Collie gained enough popularity that led to the formation of the Bearded Collie Club.
Bearded Collie Dog Breed Job Card/Overview
| Breed Name | Bearded Collie |
| Other Name | Highland Collie |
| Dog Breed Type | Herding Dogs |
| Origin | Scotland |
| Parent Breeds | None |
| Height | 20-22 inches |
| Weight | 45-55 pounds |
| Life Expectancy | 12-14 years |
| Coat Type | Long and Straight |
| Common Colors | Chocolate, Grey, White |
| Grooming Needs | High grooming needs |
| Hypoallergenic | No |
| Temperament | Lively, Playful, Quick-witted, Spunky |
| Apartment Living | Not suitable for apartment living |
| Pet-Friendly | Yes |
| Health Concerns | Colonic disease, Epilepsy, Hypoadrenocorticism, Canine hip dysplasia (CHD), Pemphigus |
| Overall Health | Healthy |
| Intelligence Level | High |
| Trainability | Medium |
| Energy Level | Medium |
| Activity | Active |
| Litter Size | 4-12 puppies |
What To Know
• Regular grooming is essential to prevent matting and keep your Bearded Collie looking their best.
• Bearded Collies thrive on social interaction and require plenty of exercise to stay happy.
• These herding dogs have a strong instinct to chase, making proper training and supervision crucial.
• Bearded Collies are friendly and great with families, but their herding heritage may lead them to “herd” small children.
Characteristics
Adaptability
This breed effortlessly transitions from city life to the countryside, thriving in various environments.
Bearded Collies are equally at home playing with children as they are herding livestock.
Their lively, intelligent nature allows them to adapt to different activities and training, making them versatile companions.
Their thick, weather-resistant coat reflects their adaptability to changing weather conditions.
Whether it’s a lazy day at home or a rugged adventure, the Bearded Collie’s adaptable spirit makes them an ideal choice for diverse lifestyles.
Adaptability
Adaptive to Apartment Living
Suitable for New Owners
Sensitivity Scale
Comfortable Being Alone
Comfortable with Cold Weather
Comfortable with Hot Weather
Friendliness
Bearded Collie dogs are renowned for their warm and friendly nature. With their shaggy charm and wagging tails, they effortlessly win hearts.
These furry companions are known to be exceptionally affectionate and social, making them excellent friends for families and individuals alike.
Their playful and good-humored disposition ensures they get along with people and other pets, fostering a harmonious environment.
The Bearded Collie’s friendly demeanor is a testament to their loyalty and love for their human companions, making them a popular choice for those seeking a truly amiable furry friend.
All About Friendliness
Lovable with Family
Kid-Friendly
Dog-Friendly
Frank with strangers
Personality
Bearded Collies are resourceful, confident, and very intelligent dogs. Everyone loves to be around them because of their bubbly and funny personality.
Their easy-going nature might make you think it’s effortless to train them. Their independent thinking gets in the way of training them.
As puppies, they want everyone to hold them and play with them. Their curiosity helps in training them.
At home, a Bearded Collie will be found where something is going on. He will be willing to be with you every time, whether you are cooking in the kitchen or relaxing on the couch.
They are very affectionate dogs. They want to spread love and expect the same in return. They are sensitive, so any harsh behavior can hurt their feelings.
Don’t confuse their barking with their guarding instincts. They might bark when they hear the doorbell but instantly bond with the stranger standing out there.
Temperament
Friendly with Children
Bearded Collie dogs are known for their friendly and outgoing nature, making them a perfect choice for families with children.
Their playful disposition and gentle temperament make them great companions for kids of all ages.
These fluffy, lovable dogs enjoy interactive play and are patient, making them a wonderful addition to any family.
Just be prepared for their exuberant energy and readiness to join in on your children’s adventures, ensuring endless fun for all!
Amicable to Other Pets
Bearded Collie dogs are renowned for their amicable nature, making them great companions for other pets.
These gentle giants are known for their friendly demeanor, showing kindness and tolerance towards fellow furry friends.
Whether it’s cats, other dogs, or even smaller critters, Bearded Collies often forge harmonious relationships, fostering a peaceful and loving environment in your home.
Their sociable and adaptable disposition makes them an ideal choice for multi-pet households, ensuring a tranquil coexistence.
Barking Tendencies
Bearded Collies are known for their friendly and playful nature, but they can also be quite vocal.
Their barking tendencies often stem from their herding instincts, alerting their owners to potential threats.
To manage this behavior, early training and socialization are crucial. Providing mental and physical stimulation can help curb excessive barking, ensuring a harmonious coexistence with your Bearded Collie.
Remember, their barking is a way of communication, so understanding their needs is key to a quieter and happier pup.
Possibilities of Staying Alone
Staying alone can be a possibility for a Bearded Collie dog, but it’s important to consider their social nature.
With proper training and gradual adjustments, some Bearded Collies can adapt to short periods alone.
However, it’s crucial to provide mental stimulation and toys to prevent boredom. Always prioritize their well-being and consider a doggy daycare or a dog walker for longer absences.
Pros And Cons Of The Bearded Collie Dog Breed
Pros
- Loyal and affectionate companionship.
- Energetic, playful, and with great agility.
- Hypoallergenic, less shedding.
- Intelligent and trainable breed.
- Excellent family pet and watchdog.
Cons
- Requires regular grooming and maintenance.
- High exercise needs.
- Prone to herding behaviors.
- Potential for stubbornness.
- May not do well alone.
Male Vs. Female Attitude
How a dog’s attitude will turn out to be doesn’t depend on their gender. A male or female Bearded Collie’s attitude will largely depend on its age, environment, size, and dietary needs. Overall, they are friendly, witty, energetic, and full of love.
Appearance
General Appearance
The Bearded Collie is a distinctive and charming breed known for its shaggy, weather-resistant coat.
With a friendly expression, these dogs have a robust build and expressive eyes. Their long, wavy fur covers their entire body, often obscuring their eyes.
This breed sports a soft, lovable demeanor that endears them to many. Their unique appearance is a blend of ruggedness and charm, making them a beloved choice for dog enthusiasts worldwide.
Coat Color
Bearded Collies’ breeding was done keeping in mind the harsh climatic conditions of Scotland.
They have two layers of coat- a shaggy, harsh, flat, and strong outer coat and a fluffy undercoat.
The common coat colors are blue, fawn, black, or brown. The shades of the colors can lighten or darken as they grow.
Their double coat is very long, making their grooming needs high. Use a pin brush or bristle for weekly brushing of their coat.
A conditioning spray before brushing will help to reduce breakage and static. Proper brushing means half an hour to an hour of work.
Shedding
Bearded Collies have long coats that naturally part on each side. They have double coats, and that means more shedding.
They are heavy shedders, and their shedding lasts between two to four weeks once a year.
Increase brushing during this time of the year to get rid of loose hair. As these dogs mature, their puppy coat will come out, too, and grow into adult coats.
Brushing twice or thrice a week during this time will help them remove the coat.
Size
Bearded Collies are considered medium-sized breeds that grow between 20 to 22 inches.
Their long fur can give the impression of a long height sometimes. Their size also depends on several factors, including diet and environment.
Health
All dog breeds are generally healthy, but they might get one or another disease later in their life.
Chances of getting ill are with every dog breed, and the same applies to Bearded Collie. Here are some health problems that a Bearded Collie might face in their lifetime.
- Hypothyroidism
- Allergies
- Persistent Pupillary Membrane (PPM)
- Hip Dysplasia
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
Health And Grooming Requirements
Shedding Quantity
Drooling Capability
Effortless to Groom
Overall Health
Capable of Gaining Weight
Size
Maintenance And Care
Bearded Collies love to be indoors as much as they love to be outdoors. They just want to be with their loved ones, whether they are inside or outside the house.
They might not be a good fit for apartment owners because of their big size. A big fenced backyard will be great for their playing sessions.
You need to take care of their dental hygiene, too, by brushing their teeth twice or thrice a week to get rid of tartar buildup.
To get rid of bad breath and gum diseases, daily brushing will be beneficial. When you start hearing a clicking sound when they walk, consider it’s time to trim their nails.
Grooming
Their long, luxurious coat requires regular care to prevent matting and maintain a healthy shine.
Brushing at least a few times a week is a must to remove dirt and tangles. Regular baths help keep their fur clean and odor-free.
Trimming around the eyes and paws is crucial for clear vision and hygiene. Don’t forget their ears, as they can trap moisture.
With proper grooming, your Bearded Collie will look and feel fantastic.
Food And Nutrition
High-quality dog food served in amounts of 1.5 cups to 2 cups separated into two meals should be given in a day.
Protein-rich diets are the best food option for them, but other nutrients are required too.
Each dog has different nutrient requirements depending on their size, age, exercise, and environment.
When overfed, these dogs can get obese, and obesity is not good for anyone, even dogs.
It’s normal to get confused regarding your dog’s dietary requirements, so taking your vet’s advice will be great.
Exercise And Activity Level
Bearded Collies are filled with energy when they are outdoors. They love to chase, so use this in your exercise sessions to keep them engaged.
When indoors, they love to be in action, so giving them a ball to play around will be good. Long walks with them make them happy, and this is a form of exercise too.
Physical Requirements
Energy range
Intensity
Exercise Requirements
Capable for Playfulness
Trainability
Bearded Collie dogs are known for their remarkable trainability. With their eager-to-please nature and intelligence, they quickly grasp commands and enjoy learning new tricks.
Positive reinforcement methods work best, making training sessions a fun and rewarding experience for both dog and owner.
Their herding background also means they excel in agility and obedience.
Consistency and patience are key when training Bearded Collies, ensuring a well-behaved and happy canine companion.
Trainability
Effortless to Train
Smartness
Capable for Mouthiness
Tendency to Attack Prey
Urge to Howl or Bark
Wanderlust Ability
Children And Other Pets
Bearded Collies are the perfect friends for your kid to play with. Their energetic, bouncy, and amusing personality will keep the children in your house engaged.
It’s always advised to train your dog as well as kids how to behave with each other. Talking about other pets, these breeds bond well with them.
They might get a little possessive of their toys while playing. These dogs love to chase anyone or anything.
Conclusion
The Bearded Collie is a charming and lovable breed that has won the hearts of dog lovers worldwide.
With their shaggy appearance and friendly disposition, they make wonderful family pets. Their intelligence and agility also make them excel in various dog sports and activities.
While they require grooming to maintain their signature beard, the bond formed with these furry companions is priceless.
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FAQs On Bearded Collie Dog Breed…
Where do the Bearded Collie dog breeds come from?
Bearded Collie dog breeds originate from Scotland, specifically the Scottish Highlands. They were initially bred for herding livestock and are known for their distinctive shaggy coat and herding abilities.
What is the best diet routine for a Bearded Collie dog?
A balanced diet for a Bearded Collie should consist of high-quality dog food, rich in protein and nutrients.
How much exercise is required for a Bearded Collie?
Bearded Collies are an energetic breed and require at least 1-2 hours of daily exercise. This includes playtime, walks, and activities to keep them mentally and physically stimulated.
I am a passionate animal lover with a lifelong commitment to pet care. With over a decade of experience as a pet owner, I’ve nurtured a variety of furry and feathered friends, from cats and dogs to birds and reptiles. I possess a deep understanding of their unique needs, behavior, and health. My mission is to share my knowledge and insights to help fellow pet enthusiasts provide the best possible care for their beloved companions.