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Bearded Collie, photo 1

Origin

United Kingdom

Lifespan

12–14 years

Weight

18–27 kg

Height

51–56 cm

Personality

LivelyHardyActiveConfident

Colors & Patterns

Black · Blue · Brown · Fawn

Bearded Collie

About This Breed

The Bearded Collie is a shaggy-coated Scottish herding breed known for its cheerful, bouncy personality. Originally used for driving cattle and sheep in the Scottish Highlands, they are hardy, energetic, and always enthusiastic.

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Characteristics

Scores describe general breed tendencies, not an individual animal. A higher score means more of the named trait or need; it does not always mean better.

Family Affection
4/5
Good with Children
4/5
Good with Other Dogs
4/5
Shedding Level
3/5
Grooming Needs
4/5
Drooling Level
1/5
Friendly to Strangers
4/5
Playfulness
5/5
Watchdog Drive
3/5
Adaptability
3/5
Easy to Train
4/5
Energy Level
4/5
Barking frequency
3/5
Need for mental activity
4/5

Life with a Bearded Collie

Origin

OriginUnited Kingdom
GroupHerding

For the breed’s history, see the reference sources and Wikipedia link below.

Size and coat

Weight18–27 kg
Lifespan12–14 years
Height51–56 cm
Colors & PatternsBlack · Blue · Brown · Fawn

These are approximate adult ranges. Individual animals may be smaller or larger.

Temperament

PersonalityLively · Hardy · Active · Confident

Usually active. Make time for play, exercise, and activities that keep it interested.

Often seeks company and attention. Allow time together and help it get used to short periods alone.

Coat care

Coat care can take more time. Check for tangles and choose a brushing routine that suits the coat.

Some shedding is expected, and it may change with the season.

Living together

A familiar routine can help it settle in.

Often gets along with children, but an adult should still supervise their time together.

Often gets along with other pets. Introduce them gradually rather than assuming they will be friends.

Training and activities

May learn quickly. Keep sessions varied and practice calmly around distractions.

Choose walks, sniffing games, and play to suit the dog’s age and health. Allow rest as well.

A lifespan range is not a prediction for an individual animal. Breed scores cannot diagnose illness or replace a veterinary assessment.

More from breed and care sources

Excerpts from the linked sources. Read the original for full details.

Breed Overview

The Bearded Collie, known affectionately as a Beardie, historically flourished as a herding dog in Scotland, according to the Bearded Collie Club of America (BCCA). Renowned for their boundless energy and independent thinking skills, they are still minding herds today. Bearded Collies are medium-sized dogs that stand 20–22 inches tall and weigh between 45 and 55 pounds. Caring for a Bearded Collie According to the BCCA, the Bearded Collie temperament is “active, outgoing, bouncy, [and] affectionate.” Pet parents should be prepared to meet the needs of this herding breed, which include daily exercise and ample mental stimulation.

Care Guide

According to the BCCA, the Bearded Collie temperament is “active, outgoing, bouncy, [and] affectionate.” Pet parents should be prepared to meet the needs of this herding breed, which include daily exercise and ample mental stimulation. The Beardie’s long coat needs a dedicated grooming routine as well. For those prepared to meet these needs, a Bearded Collie dog can make a great addition to the family.