Bearded Collie

Size: Medium to Large
Other Names: Highland Collie, Mountain Collie, Hairy Mou'ed Collie, Beardie
Country of Origin: Scotland
Accreditation:
American Kennel Club (AKC): Herding
Canadian Kennel Club (CKC): Herding
United Kennel Club (UKC): Herding Dog
Australian National Kennel Council (ANKC): Working Dogs
The Kennel Club (KC): Pastoral
Kennel Union of Southern Africa (KUSA): Herding
National Kennel Club (NKC): Recognized
New Zealand Kennel Club (NZKC): Working Dogs

Height:

Male: 21-22 inches; Female: 20-21 inches

Weight:

40-60 pounds

Color(s):

Black, brown, fawn and blue, with or without white markings in the Irish Pattern; tan trim may occur on all colors

Coat:

Outer coat is flat, harsh, strong and shaggy, free from woolliness and curl; with a soft, furry, and close undercoat

Description:

The Bearded Collie is traditionally a herding breed of dog, used primarily by Scottish shepherds.  Beardies were used to herd both sheep and cattle, bred to be hardy and reliable, able to withstand the harshest conditions.  The working Bearded Collie has become less common, and more common as a family pet.

Temperament:

The Bearded Collie is intelligent and independent.  After being provided with sufficient exercise, Bearded Collies prefer to be kept indoors with their family (pack).

Training:

The Bearded Collie is an enthusiastic herding dog that requires structure and fostering.

Care & Grooming:

Sufficient exercise to meet the Bearded Collie’s high energy level is required.  Beardies excel at dog agility trials.  Weekly brushing is mandatory for keeping their long hair mat-free.  Keeping your Beardie in a "puppy cut" haircut, will reduce the need for brushing, but not eliminate it altogether.

Shedding:

Moderate to heavy; the long coat mats if loose hair is not brushed out.

Health:

Bearded Collies may be prone to hip dysplasia, Addison’s disease, and autoimmune skin or thyroid conditions.  Ask breeders about hip scores and autoimmune history in the line.

Lifespan:

12–14 years

Litter Size:

4–8 puppies