Bearded Collies are lively and active dogs with a charming personality. They have a shaggy coat and are known for their independent and curious nature. The temperament of a Bearded Collie can vary from relaxed to energetic. They are affectionate and enjoy giving kisses and wagging their tails. These intelligent and obedient dogs have a strong bark and usually get along well with children, although they may be too lively for young kids. Bearded Collies are medium-sized dogs, weighing between 45 and 55 pounds. They have a muscular and lean body, with straight front legs and well-built hindquarters covered in shaggy hair. They prefer spending time with their family and thrive when they receive attention. Generally, male Bearded Collies are more sociable than females.
Below, we look at Bearded Collie dog breed, its history, personality, pros and cons of owning an Bearded Collie, characteristics, and must-know facts. We will also examine how to care for this breed and more. Prepare for a tail-wagging adventure into the world of Bearded Collies!
| Dog Breed | Bearded Collie |
| Size | Large |
| Weight | 45-55 lbs (average) |
| Height | 20-21″ (average) |
| Location | Scotland |
| Ancestry | Magyar Komondor |
| Date of Origin | 1800s |
| Group | Sheep herding |
| Life Expectancy | 12-14 years |
| Price | $1200 – $1400 |
| Family | Canidae |
| Scientific Name | Canis Lupus Familiaris |
📖 Breed History
Most experts believe that the Bearded Collie can trace its roots back to the Magyar Komondor, a lowland Polish sheepdog from Central Europe. Historical documents show that Polish traders brought two of these sheepdogs to Scotland in 1514. The breed’s presence can be traced back to the early 1800s through written descriptions and a 1771 portrait of the Duke of Buccleuch, which is one of the earliest known depictions of a Bearded Collie. These dogs were highly skilled at herding sheep and driving off cattle, making them well-suited for Scotland’s rough and cold terrain. After the Victorian era, the breed gained popularity as a show dog.
Initially, there were two types of Bearded Collies: the border, which had a slightly wavy brown and white coat, and the highland, which had a gray and white coat. These two types were eventually interbred, resulting in one breed. By the early 20th century, the Bearded Collie was facing extinction. However, Mrs. G. O. Willison, the owner of Bothkennar Kennels, played a crucial role in saving the breed. She started breeding Bearded Collies as show dogs and founded the Bearded Collie Club in Britain in 1955. In the late 1950s, the breed was introduced to America, but it was not until 1967 that the first litter was born in the United States. The American Kennel Club officially recognized the Bearded Collie as a breed in 1977. Today, these dogs are highly regarded for their herding abilities and are popular both as show dogs and participants in herding trials.
🐕 Bearded Collie Appearance
The Bearded Collie has thick, muscled thighs covered by shaggy hair on its hindquarters and front legs. The breed’s feet are oval in form, with thickly cushioned soles and arched toes. The dog will have a full snout, a square-shaped nose, and a head that is proportionate to the rest of his body. The arched brows and wide, uniformly colored eyes of the Bearded Collies contribute to their appearance of devotion. Long hair drapes freely around medium-sized ears. The breed’s dogs have moderately arched necks and strong teeth that come together in a scissors bite. Bearded Collies often have a tail that is coated in hair that is low to the ground, curves upward at the end, and is frequently elevated while the dog is active. The breed walks with strength.
| 👀 Eye Color | Blue |
| 🐽 Nose Color | Blue, Black, Brown |
| 🐕 Coat Color | Blue, Fawn, Brown, Black |
⚡ Fun Fact: Bearded Collie dogs are a social breed. They enjoy being around people or other animals. This breed doesn’t tolerate being left alone.
🐶 Traits & Temperament of Bearded Collie
Bearded Collies are regarded as being intelligent, athletic, lively, and vivacious in addition to being submissive. The breed has a propensity to herd, and most of the time it gets along with other domestic pets. Bearded Collies need regular exercise, which should include vigorous play and lengthy walks because they are energetic dogs. For a dog of this breed to routinely run and play off-leash, a yard of medium size is advised. This breed of dog enjoys spending time with his family, thus he shouldn’t be left alone for extended periods of time with nothing to do. Instead, he should be let inside the home to be with his family. Male dogs are typically more gregarious than female canines.
🤝 Are Bearded Collies Friendly or Aggressive?
Bearded Collie dogs are known for their friendly nature towards other pets, strangers, and children, making them a great choice for families with kids. They also get along well with cats and other dogs, making them suitable for households with multiple pets or those interested in joining dog meetups. Additionally, Bearded Collies are often recommended for elderly individuals due to their gentle and adaptable nature.
This breed is known for being:
- Active
- Alert
- Intelligent
- Confident
- Lively
- Assertive
🐩 Bearded Collie Care & Maintenance
The Bearded Collie will shed often; daily brushing will assist to both reduce shedding and maintain the coat silky and clean. A Bearded Collie’s hair has to be brushed regularly to avoid mats from forming; if you spot any beginning, brush them out before they get too many. Once a year, a substantial shed is to be expected. A Bearded Collie’s nails should be regularly clipped to prevent them from becoming too long and developing cracks. Regular ear examinations are essential to prevent wax and debris buildup, which might result in an infection.
Bearded Collie dogs have a higher-than-average tendency to shed their hair. This shedding is a normal part of their hair growth cycle and can vary in amount and frequency depending on the dog’s health and breed. If you are not fond of regularly vacuuming your home, you may need to think twice before getting a Bearded Collie puppy. Additionally, it is recommended to bathe these dogs every 6-8 weeks to keep their coat clean and healthy.
🍖 Food: We recommend 2.5 cups daily, costing you about $1.20 – $1.40 daily, or around $34.00 – $45.00 a month.
🐾 Exercise: Bearded Collie dogs have an average exercise need. This breed is satisfied with short walks every weekday and a long ones on weekends.
This dog breed requires to be walked for roughly 7 miles per week, which equates to about 60 minutes of physical activity daily. This consistent moderate exercise regimen will help maintain their physical wellness and significantly contribute to their mental stimulation. Consciously setting aside this time for your furry friend can dramatically enhance their life quality, helping them stay energetic, healthy, and mentally alert.
Did you know: Bearded Collie dogs have a higher energy level than other dog breeds. If you want a dog for snuggling on the couch, this breed isn’t the perfect choice for you.
❤️🩹 Bearded Collie Health & Issues
Some of the major concerns for Bearded Collie Dog Breed can be:
- Usually A Very Healthy Breed
While minor concerns include:
- Pemphigus
- Hip Dysplasia
- Epilepsy
- Corneal Dystrophy
🤧 Important: Is Bearded Collie hypoallergenic? No.
✨ Bonus: Check out cool, creative, and funny names for Bearded Collie.
⚡ Bearded Collie Dog Breed Facts
What makes the Bearded Collie a great choice for families with young children?
The Bearded Collie’s sweet and affectionate disposition, along with their love for giving kisses and wagging their tails, makes them a great choice for families with young children. They are known to be good with children, although they may be too active for small children.
Is the Bearded Collie breed considered a suitable breed for apartment living?
The Bearded Collie breed is not considered suitable for apartment living due to their high energy levels and need for daily exercise. They require a medium-sized yard where they can run and play off-leash.
How much exercise does a Bearded Collie require compared to other breeds?
Bearded Collies require a significant amount of exercise compared to some other breeds. They are active dogs and need daily exercise, including long walks and intensive play.
Is the Bearded Collie breed known for being good with other pets?
Bearded Collies generally get along well with other household pets. They have a tendency to herd, but in the majority of cases, they can coexist peacefully with other pets.
What are other low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Bearded Collie?
Other low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Bearded Collie include the Shetland Sheepdog and the Border Collie. These breeds also have similar energy levels and intelligence.
What are the common health issues that Bearded Collies are prone to?
Bearded Collies are prone to certain health issues, including hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, and autoimmune diseases. Regular vet check-ups and proper care are important to ensure their well-being.
Are Bearded Collies known to be easy to train compared to other breeds?
Bearded Collies are known to be smart and obedient, making them relatively easy to train compared to some other breeds. Their intelligence and willingness to please make them quick learners.
Are Bearded Collies more prone to separation anxiety compared to other breeds?
Bearded Collies are not particularly prone to separation anxiety compared to some other breeds. However, like any dog, they can develop separation anxiety if not properly trained and socialized.
Are there any dog breeds similar to the Bearded Collie that are suitable for people with allergies?
Some dog breeds similar to the Bearded Collie that may be suitable for people with allergies include the Poodle, Portuguese Water Dog, and Bichon Frise. These breeds have non-shedding coats and are considered hypoallergenic.
What sizes of dogs similar to the Bearded Collie are best for individuals or families with limited space?
Small to medium-sized dogs similar to the Bearded Collie, such as the Shetland Sheepdog and Welsh Corgi, are best for individuals or families with limited space. These breeds are energetic but can adapt to smaller living spaces.
Is the Bearded Collie breed known to be good with children with special needs?
Bearded Collies can be good with children with special needs, as they are generally patient and gentle. However, it is important to supervise interactions between the dog and the child to ensure safety for both.
How does the grooming and shedding needs of the Bearded Collie?
The Bearded Collie has a shaggy, thick coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting. They are moderate shedders and need regular brushing to keep their coat in good condition. Compared to some other breeds, their grooming needs are moderate.
We use reliable and publicly available data and resources such as AKC and American Canine Registry to ensure that Bearded Collie dog breed information is accurate and up to date. If you spot an error, please don’t hesitate to bring it to our attention.
