Bearded Collie

The Bearded Collie, more affectionately known as the “Beardie,” is a charismatic and energetic dog descending from the Scottish Highlands. With his thick shaggy fur and ever-curious nature, the Beardie is an excellent companion for outdoorsmen and adventure seekers. Always on the move, this breed is known for being extremely outgoing, hardy, and loving. You can expect a loyal, smart, and funny companion in your Bearded Collie. Read on to learn more about the Bearded Collie.

Description of the Bearded Collie

With medium length fur that covers their body like a carpet, the Bearded Collie looks ready to last out a long winter in his thick fur, and it isn’t far from the truth! Originally bred as herding dogs on the Scottish Highlands, Beardies are happy being outside in any type of weather.

Their herding blood gives them a strong body that, under all that fur, is quite lean. Able to spend all day in the field, the Bearded Collie has lots of endurance and power. Their agility and speed makes them great for herding and fetching balls alike!

The Bearded Collie has become a popular family dog and outdoor companion. With their distinctively inquisitive eyes, Beardies rarely miss a beat and can keep up with anything thrown at them.

Distinguished by their flowing hair, the Bearded Collie can come in an array of black, blue, brown, or fawn. It is not uncommon for puppies to change colors as they mature, often with colors becoming lighter. They can also have white markings on certain parts of their bodies

Life Expectancy and Size

Medium sized and rugged, the Beardie is a durable dog that often lives a long life averaging 12 – 14 years. Naturally active, by combining their love of physical activity with a well balanced diet you can contribute to a long and healthy life for your dog.

Working with a reputable breeder who screens for potential health problems is an important step in being prepared for future issues.

With males standing 21 – 22 inches tall, and females 20 – 21 inches, and weighing 45 – 55 pounds, the Bearded Collie makes a great mid-size dog. Their bodies are quite compact but all of their voluptuous fur gives them the appearance of being bigger than they actually are.

Protective Ability

Beardies always have their eyes open, and are good watch dogs. They are used to standing guard over their herds of cattle, but their naturally friendly demeanor means they are more likely to welcome a stranger than be wary of them. You can expect an observant dog that is friendly to everyone, but not the best guard dog.

Training

The Bearded Collie is a smart and independent breed. Used to being in the field without any human direction, these dogs are able to get the job done and learn quickly. Starting training young can teach your Collie that he should listen to you.

Beardies love food, and using treats is an excellent way to make training engaging and rewarding for this breed. Be sure to avoid overfeeding, though, as these dogs can become overweight. Keeping training sessions short the fastest and most efficient way to train your Beardie. These dogs bore easily and so keeping sessions interesting will accomplish the most.

Because of their herding blood, Bearded Collies are a natural choice for sports such as agility, herding, and rally. This is also a great way to expend some of their endless energy.

Early socialization is key in training your Beardie. This breed should be outgoing and friendly and early socialization can make sure they blossom into the loving and fun dogs they are.

Energy Level

The Bearded Collie is a highly energetic and rambunctious dog. Bred to move, they are always game to play, no matter the weather. You may find your Beardie waiting at the door in pouring rain. Weather does not deter these excited dogs and you can expect to find yourself frolicking through puddles with your funny companion on more than a few occasions!

Despite their constant energy, the Bearded Collie is a very loving dog and wants to spend time with his family. While he won’t be content to laze around all day, he won’t mind spending time snuggled up with you between fetch sessions. Beardies do not do well if left alone and need lots of daily interaction with their family to stay happy.

What Living with a Bearded Collie is Like

This is a boisterous and charming dog.

The Bearded Collie loves his family as much as he loves to move. Give him both these things and he will be your happy and loyal companion forever. The Beardie is no couch potato, and you should be ready to spend time being active with your dog. But you will be rewarded in a funny, loving, and truly vivacious friend.

Care of the Bearded Collie

The Bearded Collie is an easy-going dog that can do well as long as given lots of physical exercise and affection. Keeping these dogs happy is as simple as just taking them for a nice walk. They really are that easy to please!

Environmental Needs

With a thick double coat of coarse fur, the Beardie is rugged and ready to withstand any type of weather. Winter is a breeze for this breed and they can adapt to heat decently well too. Keep an eye on them in extreme heat, though, as they can overheat from their thick fur.

Exercise Needs

These dogs were bred to move, and still need that exercise today. Expect at least an hour of physical activity everyday. Whether this is going for a long walk, jog, hike, or just playing some fun games in the backyard, your Bearded Collie will be happy moving and getting to spend time with you.

Athletic sports like agility and herding are a great way for your Beardie to get a good dose of physical activity and stay mentally stimulated.

Shedding and Grooming

This breed sheds moderately. The thick double coat of the Bearded Collie requires a two-step approach to keep it mat-free and healthy. A daily brush of the topcoat to remove debris, about 5 to 10 minutes, and then a weekly brush with a pin rake, brush, and comb, to take care of loose hair and remove snarls, 30 minutes to an hour should suffice.

Check your Beardie’s ears weekly and trim their nails regularly to keep him from being in pain.

Ideal Home Environment

This breed is popular with families. Their bubbly and easygoing nature means they can do well with a variety of people. Activity and companionship are the two key ingredients for making a happy Bearded Collie. Give them these things and your dog will do well anywhere.

Health Concerns

The Bearded Collie is a hardy breed and is generally healthy. That said, a responsible breeder will screen for the common problems this breed faces. These include hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, autoimmune diseases, allergies, ear infections, and eye problems.

Regular check-ups, proper diet, and plenty of exercise can help keep your Beardie healthy.

Behavior Problems

Naturally outgoing and friendly, the Bearded Collie needs companionship to be happy. They do not do well if left alone and may turn to destructive behaviors for entertainment. Be sure you can provide them lots of activity and face-time with you everyday.