The Bearded Collie affectionately also called the Beardie was primarily bred for herding, but ended up through the years as a companion dog. Also known as Mountain Collie or Highland Collie, the Bearded Collie is one of the oldest breeds in Great Britain. His enthusiastic, bouncy personality along with his vigorous, reliable nature is the foundations to make the Beardie the perfect shaggy dog.
Physical Traits
Area of Origin: Great Britain and Scotland
Used for: Herding, Companion
Average Life Span: 14-15 years
Color: Come in four main colors: Black, Blue (dilute black), Brown, and Fawn (dilute brown)
Coat: Dense, waterproof, long double coat
Average Height: Up to 22 inches tall
Average Weight: 40-60 pounds
Group: Herding, AKC Herding
History and Domestication
The word “Bearded” referred to the dog’s hairy chins and “Collie” is the name that Scottish gave to the herding dogs. The breed started in Great Britain around 1514 when a sea captain from Poland traded three Polish Sheepdogs with a local Scottish shepherd. Then the shepherd bred these dogs with others like Old English Sheepdogs and Komodors. The resulting breed of dogs was excellent herding cattle and sheep. Bearded Collies became popular as show dogs during the Victorian era, but almost got extinct in World War II. In 1944 G Olive Willison rescued the breed. In 1967 the breed was introduced to the United States and was recognized by the AKC in 1976.
Standard Physical Characteristics
The body is a vibrant rugged, medium-sized working dog. The long and lean body meets the large head with a moderate stop. The relatively short and strong muzzle should be equal in distance to the top skull. The squared large black nose is slightly covered with hair. The medium-sized ears are filled with long hair. The expressive affectionate wide eyes are the same color than their coat. The wagging hairy tail always accentuates the dog’s attitude. The furry, splendid waterproof coat follows the natural lines of the body and changes many times during the dog’s life. Their final coat color should be something between when the dog was a puppy and when was about a year old.
Care, Grooming and Health
Main health concerns with this breed are hip dysplasia, epilepsy, colonic disease and pemphigus. Prone to aortic stenosis and cataracts as well. This breed is an average shedder. Their dense, long coat needs to be combed and brushed regularly to keep its shine, healthy and free from external parasite infestations.
Living Conditions
This is a very active dog that needs an energetic owner, daily exercise and space to run. This dog breed doesn’t like to be confined so isn’t recommended for an apartment living. Because they were bred to be farm dogs they can sleep outside and be out in all weather conditions or terrain. Beardies owners also need to enjoy brushing their long thick coat that splash water and brings dirt from every outdoor adventure.
Temperament
Bearded Collies are very obedient and smart dogs. Their high energy makes them perfect lovely playmates for children. They can be noisy sometimes, but never aggressive. Children and dogs need to be always supervised by an adult so neither of both gets unintentionally hurt. They can also have an independent, stubborn streak because they were bred to be determined when herding cattle. As a result of their herding background they made excellent watchdogs. They are always alert and bark to catch your attention. You need to train them to bark only when necessary. Begin training, obedience early is very important to obtain good results. They don’t learn when you are harsh or abusive so always try positive reinforcement. Their ability to get along with other dogs, herd sheep, compete in shows, play with the kids in the backyard or just stay close to the family made the Bearded Collie a well-loved dog pleased to do it all.
