The Bearded Collie dog is a breed of herding dog originated from Scotland. It was once used primarily by Scottish shepherds, but now mostly a popular family companion. It is also known as Highland Collie, Mountain Collie, Hairy Mou’ed Collie and Beardie.
History of the breed is a combination of fact and legend. Kazimierz Grabski, a Polish merchant, reportedly traded a shipment of grain for sheep in Scotland in 1514 and brought six Polish Lowland Sheepdogs to move them.
A Scottish shepherd was so impressed with the herding ability of the dogs that he traded several sheep for several dogs. The Polish sheepdogs were bred with local Scottish dogs to produce the Bearded Collie dogs.
It is generally agreed that Mrs. G. Olive Willison founded the modern Bearded Collie in 1944 with her brown bitch, Jeannie of Bothkennar. Jeannie was supposedly a Shetland Sheepdog, but Mrs. Willison received a Bearded Collie by accident.
She was so fascinated by the dog that she wanted to begin breeding, so she began searching for a dog for Jeannie. While walking along the beach, Mrs. Willison met a man who was emigrating from Scotland; she became the owner of his grey dog, David, who became Bailie of Bothkennar.[1]
The Bearded Collie dog breed became popular during the last half of the 20th century. The breed is of very good nature and is good as a family pet and a working dog and also a show dog.
Bearded Collie Dog Characteristics
The Bearded Collie dogs are of medium size. They have a medium length coat that follows the natural lines of the body and allows plenty of daylight under the body.
Their body is long and lean, and though strongly made, does not appear heavy. A bright inquiring expression is a distinctive feature of the breed.
Common coloration of the Bearded Collie breed include black, blue, brown or fawn with white or tan markings.
Average body height of the mature dogs is between 21 and 22 inches at the withers for male, and between 20 and 22 inches for the females. And their average body weight is between 18 and 27 kg.
Temperament
The Bearded Collie dogs are very smart, resourceful and confident. Their bouncy, bubbly personality make them fun to be with. But when it comes to training, they can be independent thinker who like to have their own way.
The Bearded Collie dog is a boisterous playmate for the children and has a sense of humor that makes the dog a joy to be around.
Although, temperament varies in individual dogs. Some Bearded Collie dogs are sweet and quiet, while some are loud and enthusiastic.
Lifespan
Average lifespan of the Bearded Collie dog breed is between 12 and 14 years.
Feeding
How much a mature dog eats depends on it’s size, age, build, metabolism and activity level. Dogs are individuals, just like people, and they don’t all need the same amount of food.
The Bearded Collie is a medium sized dog. So, their diet should be formulated for a medium sized breed with average exercise needs. You can consult with a vet in your area for better recommendations.
Caring
Taking good care of the animals is very important for raising Bearded Collie dogs. They are suitable for raising in both indoor or outdoor.
They need to live inside with their people, with access to a yard or fenced area where they can run.
The Bearded Collie dog is not suited to apartment life. They enjoy being with their people, whether they are indoors or outdoors.
The Bearded Collie dogs require moderate exercise. They will be satisfied with a couple of half-hour walks or play sessions with a ball daily.
Obedience training is very important if you are going to establish order and discipline in your dog’s life.
Make learning fun, and teach them with positive reinforcement techniques such as food rewards, play and praise.
These dogs do not learn under abusive or harsh conditions. Begin training early and you will obtain excellent results.
Health
The Bearded Collie dogs are generally healthy. But like all other dog breeds, they are also prone to certain health conditions.
Their common health problems include allergies, hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, progressive retinal atrophy and persistent pupillary membrane. Always keep good contact with a vet in your area.
| Breed Name | Bearded Collie |
| Other Names | Highland Collie, Mountain Collie, Hairy Mou’ed Collie and Beardie |
| Breed Size | Medium |
| Height | Between 21 and 22 inches at the withers for male, and between 20 and 22 inches for the females |
| Weight | Between 18 and 27 kg |
| Good as pets | Yes |
| Climate Tolerance | All climates |
| Color | Usually black, blue, brown or fawn with white or tan markings |
| Lifespan | Between 12 and 14 years |
| Good for children | Yes |
| Rarity | Common |
| Country of Origin | Scotland |
