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Bearded Collie

Bearded Collie is a medium herding breed from Scotland also known as Beardie, Highland Collie, Hairy Mou'ed Collie.

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Breed overview

Bearded Collie is a medium herding breed from Scotland also known as Beardie, Highland Collie, Hairy Mou'ed Collie.

An ancient Scottish herding breed, possibly descended from Polish Lowland Sheepdogs brought to Scotland in the 16th century by Polish traders. They were working dogs of Scottish Highland shepherds for centuries before becoming show dogs.

People looking into Bearded Collie usually prepare for High exercise needs, High grooming needs, 45–55 lbs • 20–22 in.

BeardieHighland CollieHairy Mou'ed Collie

History and origin

Bearded Collie is tied to originating from Scotland, specifically Scottish Highlands, with sources often placing its development around 1514 CE.

Bearded Collie is described here as placed in the herding group and marked as an established breed.

An ancient Scottish herding breed, possibly descended from Polish Lowland Sheepdogs brought to Scotland in the 16th century by Polish traders. They were working dogs of Scottish Highland shepherds for centuries before becoming show dogs.

Browse dog breeds from Scotland Browse more herding breeds

Quick facts

Breed group
herding
Size
Medium
Origin country
Scotland
Region
Scottish Highlands
Origin year
1514 CE
Weight
45–55 lbs
Height
20–22 in
Lifespan
12–14 years
Breed status
Established

Traits and day-to-day fit

Energy level
4 / 5
Trainability
4 / 5
Good with children
5 / 5
Shedding level
4 / 5
Barking tendency
3 / 5
High exercise needsHigh grooming needsChildren score: 5/5Trainability: 4/5

Coat and classification

Bearded Collie is grouped here with these coat and texture descriptors.

DoubleLongShaggy

Bearded Collie is also listed as recognized by these kennel-club organizations.

Recognized by AKCRecognized by FCIRecognized by CKCRecognized by KCRecognized by KCA

Appearance and build

  • Medium-sized herding dog with shaggy double coat
  • Long, flowing coat that covers the eyes
  • Colors change from puppy to adult (usually darkening or lightening)
  • Characteristic 'bouncing' gait when excited

What this breed is known for

  • An ancient Scottish herding breed, possibly descended from Polish Lowland Sheepdogs brought to Scotland in the 16th century by Polish traders. They were working dogs of Scottish Highland shepherds for centuries before becoming show dogs.
  • Nearly extinct by the early 1900s until Mrs. G.O. Willison obtained a puppy by chance in 1944 and dedicated her life to rebuilding the breed. Most modern Bearded Collies descend from her kennels.
  • Known for their exuberant 'Beardie bounce' - a characteristic bouncing gait when excited. They change coat color dramatically as they mature, often starting dark and lightening significantly by adulthood.

Health and care notes

Bearded Collie is noted here for High exercise needs and High grooming needs.

  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Eye Conditions
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Autoimmune Diseases

Coat details: Double, Long, Shaggy

These are informational breed-guide notes, not veterinary advice.

Frequently asked questions

Where does the Bearded Collie come from?

Bearded Collie is closely associated with Scotland, especially Scottish Highlands in the sources used for this page.

How big does a Bearded Collie get?

Typical size details for Bearded Collie on this page are 45–55 lbs, 20–22 in, 12–14 years.

What is the Bearded Collie known for?

An ancient Scottish herding breed, possibly descended from Polish Lowland Sheepdogs brought to Scotland in the 16th century by Polish traders. They were working dogs of Scottish Highland shepherds for centuries before becoming show dogs.

Sources and citations

References below include kennel-club profiles, breed standards, and supporting background links for deeper reading.
  1. American Kennel Club breed profile
    American Kennel Club
  2. Royal Kennel Club breed profile
    The Royal Kennel Club
  3. Royal Kennel Club breed standard
    The Royal Kennel Club • Breed standard
  4. Bearded Collie reference page
    Wikipedia

Use the linked breed directories and standards for deeper reference. Breed guides are informational and do not replace veterinary or breeder advice.