Bearded Collie: Strong, Agile, and Loyal Herding Companion

Form and Function

The Beardie is a medium-sized dog with a long, lean, strongly made body, which gives the impression of both strength and agility. This breed’s gait is supple and powerful, with good reach and drive. The ability to make sharp turns, quick starts, and sudden stops is essential in a sheep herding breed, and the Beardie must be able to keep this activity up for a long period of time under all conditions. This dog’s coat is double with a soft, furry undercoat. The outer coat is flat, harsh, and fairly straight; it is sufficient to protect the dog but not so much as to obscure the dog’s lines. The Beardie’s expression is bright and inquiring.

 

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Breed Traits

Energy Level

4 out of 5

Exercise Requirements

4 out of 5

Playfulness

4 out of 5

Affection Level

4 out of 5

Friendliness To Dogs

3 out of 5

Friendliness To Other Pets

3 out of 5

Friendliness To Strangers

3 out of 5

Watchfulness

2 out of 5

Ease of Training

3 out of 5

Grooming Requirements

4 out of 5

Heat Sensitivity

3 out of 5

Vocality

4 out of 5

Breed Attributes

Type

Herding

Weight

45-55 lb

Height

20-22"

Family

Herding

Area of Origin

Scotland

Date of Origin

1800s

History

The Bearded Collie probably originated from the central European Magyar Komondor or Lowland Polish Sheepdog. In fact, records show that in 1514 two Lowland Polish Sheepdogs were brought to Scotland by Polish traders. Although dogs strongly resembling Bearded Collies are depicted in art dating from the eighteenth century, hard evidence of the breed cannot be found until the early nineteenth century, when the first breed description was published.

These dogs were tireless herders of sheep and drovers of cattle over rough terrain in the cold Scottish mists. Long popular as a herding dog in Scotland, after the Victorian era the breed also gained favor as a show dog. Two strains, the Border strain, which was brown and white with a slightly wavy coat, and the Highland strain, which had a gray and white coat, have since been interbred and merged into one breed.

After World War I, the Beardie was once again bred solely for work. Their value as herding dogs made it difficult for outsiders to acquire one from their shepherd owners. Eventually, however, a few breeders interested in showing Beardies were able to bring some dogs to England and then to America. The AKC recognized the breed in 1977. The Beardie has since become a popular pet and continues as a capable herder, although is more popular as a competitor in herding trials than as an actual working dog.

Temperament

The boisterous Beardie is lively and playful, full of enthusiasm and energy. This dog is smart and obedient, but is an independent thinker with a clownish sense of humor. Beardies like children, but may be too rambunctious for small children and may try to herd them when playing.

Upkeep

This active dog needs either a good jog, a very long walk, or a vigorous play session every day. The Beardie especially enjoys herding. The long coat needs brushing or combing every other day.