Make a page for your bearded collie.

Share bearded collie rescue stories.

Short History of the Breed
The Bearded Collie, affectionately called the Beardie, was developed in Scotland as a herding dog. Its ancestors likely included herding dogs from the European continent, such as the Poland Lowland Sheepdog (Polski Owzcarek Nizinny) and the Komondor, blended with the sheep herding dogs of the British Isles. It was developed as an independent worker, able to make decisions concerning the welfare and safety of their charges without depending on the shepherd who might be miles away. Flocks in Scotland intermingled freely, yet one Beardie never brought home a wrong sheep during his many years of work. The Beardie is still used as a shepherd's helpmate in Scotland, and now in the U.S.
G.O. Willison brought the breed to recognition by The Kennel Club of Great Britain in 1959. Since then, they've wended their way into hearts and homes world-wide. Following recognition by AKC in 1977, they have remained about midway in AKC registration statistics. Beardies are rarely half-way about anything, but breeders are happy the breed is middle-of-the-road when it comes to popularity. Most Beardie breeders take great care in breeding, raising and placing their puppies. Although a well-kept secret from the general population, they're popular with those who know, with owners often loving two or three or ten!

Physical Description and Size

A medium sized breed (40 to 60 lbs) with a medium to long coat. The breed is athletic, quite biddable, and very loyal. Much looser eyed than the border collie, it works in a similar manner, and some feel the working beardie is merely a different coated version of the Border Collie. Bearded Collies come in many color varieties including black and white, grey, fawn, and blue!

Temperament

Beardies are usually active, outgoing, bouncy, affectionate creatures. Within the normal range of temperament, they range from low-key, sweet and laid back to rowdy and bold. Each owner should decide what will fit best with their lifestyle and inform the breeder prior to purchase, so the Perfect Pup can be matched with their family.

The breed interacts well with other animals, particularly if raised with them. Breeders often receive pictures of Beardies playing with tiny Chihuahuas or BIG Wolfhounds...or even enjoying a "cat" nap with a kitten. Some tend to be a mite bossy about possessions and hoard all the toys in their den. Being herding dogs, they will yield to a chase if tempted.

Dog Care

This a very energetic breed that needs exercise to be happy. It is best not to keep this breed unless you can provide plenty of structured mental and physical exercise.

Health Issues and Life Expectancy

Usually healthy, their long coat can hide external parasites, and some may get
hip dysplasia. The average life span for a Beardie is 14-15 years

Additional Resources

Bearded Collie- Online Community