Bearded Collie
The Good
- Striking appearance with gorgeous flowing coat
- Peaceful and accommodating temperament
- Intelligent, loyal, and obedient nature
- Exceptional with children
- Gets along brilliantly with other pets
The Real
- High-maintenance grooming requirements
- Tends to be quite vocal
- Can be stubborn and independent-minded
- Needs substantial physical exercise
- Relatively uncommon in Australia
Gallery
Breed Overview
The Bearded Collie, affectionately known as a "Beardie," is a charismatic Scottish herding dog that's captured hearts worldwide with their shaggy coat and dreamy expression. Standing 51-56 cm tall and weighing 20-25 kg, these medium-sized dogs are perfectly built for active Australian families who love the outdoors.
What makes Beardies special is their incredible personality - they're bouncy, outgoing, and absolutely devoted to their families. Think of them as the class clown who's also surprisingly wise. Their famous "faraway gaze" isn't just for show; it reflects their independent thinking abilities developed over centuries of herding Scottish sheep without constant human direction.
In Australian homes, Beardies thrive with families who can match their energy levels. They're brilliant with kids, though their enthusiasm might be overwhelming for toddlers. Their herding instincts mean they'll try to "manage" everything from the family cat to the neighbour's children - it's endearing but requires proper training.
These dogs are built for Australia's varied climate, handling everything from Melbourne's chilly winters to Brisbane's humidity, though they'll appreciate shade during Perth's scorching summers. Their double coat provides excellent insulation, but it does come with a price - daily grooming is non-negotiable. If you're dreaming of weekend camping trips to the Grampians or long beach walks along the Gold Coast, a Beardie could be your perfect adventure companion.
History
History
The Bearded Collie's story begins in the misty Scottish Highlands, where these hardy dogs earned their keep as indispensable herding companions. Their lineage stretches back over 500 years, with some theories suggesting their ancestors existed even before the Roman conquest of Britain in the 1st century BC.
The breed's development took a fascinating turn in the 16th century when Polish merchant Kazimierz Grabski brought Magyar Komondors and Polish Lowland Sheepdogs to Scotland. These continental herders were crossed with local Scottish farm dogs, creating the foundation for what we know today as the Bearded Collie. Early descriptions weren't particularly flattering - one 17th-century author described them as "rough and unkempt, resembling a village mop" - but their working ability was undeniable.
Originally known as Highland Collies or Mountain Collies, these dogs were the backbone of Scottish sheep farming. By the Victorian era, they'd cleaned up their act considerably and became popular show dogs, particularly in southern Scotland. However, changing farming practices in the 20th century nearly drove them to extinction.
The breed's salvation came through pure chance. In the 1940s, Mrs. Gwendolyn Willison accidentally received a Bearded Collie puppy instead of the Shetland Sheepdog she'd ordered. Enchanted by the breed, she began a dedicated breeding program that literally saved the Bearded Collie from disappearing forever. Today, while they're not among the world's most popular breeds, Beardies have secured their place in hearts worldwide, including a growing number of Australian families who appreciate their unique blend of independence and devotion.
Traits & Characteristics
Bearded Collie characteristics and temperament traits.
Caring Guide
Bearded Collies are generally robust dogs with fewer health issues than many breeds, thanks to their working heritage and natural selection. Most Beardies live 12-14 years, with some reaching 16-17 years when well cared for. However, like all breeds, they're prone to certain conditions that Australian owners should be aware of.
Hip dysplasia is the most common concern, affecting the hip joint's proper development and potentially causing pain and arthritis. This genetic condition is more prevalent in medium to large dogs. Australian owners can help manage this through proper nutrition, maintaining healthy weight, and appropriate exercise. Swimming at local beaches or dog pools is excellent low-impact exercise for Beardies with hip concerns.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) is another hereditary condition where the eye's rods and cones gradually deteriorate, leading to blindness. While there's no cure, most dogs adapt remarkably well to vision loss. Reputable Australian breeders should provide eye clearance certificates for breeding dogs.
Addison's disease, where the body doesn't produce enough corticosteroids, can make dogs more susceptible to stress. Watch for symptoms like diarrhoea, vomiting, and sudden lethargy - particularly important in Australia's varied climate conditions.
Hypothyroidism and various autoimmune conditions occasionally affect the breed. Regular vet check-ups are crucial, especially considering Australia's tick-prone areas where Beardies' thick coats can hide these parasites. Pet insurance is worth considering, as treatment costs can be significant. Australian owners should establish relationships with vets experienced in herding breeds and maintain consistent preventive care including heartworm prevention, essential in Australia's climate.
Feeding your Bearded Collie properly is crucial for maintaining their energy levels and gorgeous coat condition. These active dogs need high-quality nutrition that matches their lifestyle, whether they're beach-walking in Bondi or hiking in the Blue Mountains.
Choose dog food that meets Australian pet food standards, focusing on age-appropriate formulas - puppy, adult, or senior. Beardie puppies need 3-4 meals daily, while adults do well with twice-daily feeding. Using slow-feeder bowls is brilliant for these enthusiastic eaters, providing mental stimulation while preventing gulping.
The amount depends on your individual dog's age, weight, activity level, and health status. An active Beardie hiking regularly will need more calories than a couch companion. Your Australian vet can provide specific portion guidance, but generally, adult Beardies need about 2-3 cups of quality dry food daily, divided between meals.
Fresh water should always be available, particularly important during Australia's hot summers. After beach visits or bush walks, ensure your Beardie drinks plenty to stay hydrated.
Many Australian owners find success with premium commercial foods, which eliminate guesswork about nutritional balance. If you prefer home-prepared meals, work closely with your vet to ensure complete nutrition. Never give supplements without veterinary guidance - quality commercial foods already contain necessary nutrients.
Watch your Beardie's weight carefully. Their thick coat can hide weight gain, and overweight dogs face increased hip dysplasia risks. Regular weigh-ins at your local vet help maintain optimal condition. Some Beardies are food-motivated, making training easier but requiring careful treat management to prevent obesity.
Here's where Bearded Collie ownership gets serious - that stunning coat requires dedicated daily attention. Think of grooming as bonding time rather than a chore, because you'll be spending 10-15 minutes daily keeping your Beardie looking magnificent.
The Beardie's double coat consists of a soft, dense undercoat and longer, coarser guard hairs designed to protect against harsh Scottish weather. In Australia's varied climate, this coat works brilliantly but mats easily, especially after beach visits or bushwalking adventures.
Daily brushing prevents tangles and removes debris your adventurous Beardie collects. Use a slicker brush and metal comb, working systematically through the coat. Pay special attention to areas that mat quickly - behind ears, under legs, and around the tail. Weekly thorough grooming sessions with pin rakes help remove dead undercoat.
Australian owners should be extra vigilant about grass seeds and burrs, common after outdoor adventures. The facial hair forming the distinctive "beard" needs regular cleaning, especially after meals. Many owners tie back ear hair during feeding to keep it clean.
Bathing frequency depends on lifestyle - beach-loving Beardies need more frequent baths than suburban walkers. Use quality dog shampoo and ensure thorough rinsing. The coat takes ages to dry completely, so plan bath time accordingly.
Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks helps maintain coat condition, though show dogs require more intensive care. Many Australian pet owners opt for slight trimming around feet and sanitary areas for hygiene, though exhibition dogs must remain unclipped.
Start grooming routines early - puppies who learn to enjoy brushing become cooperative adults. This breed's grooming needs aren't negotiable, so ensure you're committed before bringing home a Beardie.
Bearded Collies are intelligent working dogs who need both mental and physical challenges to stay happy. In Australia, they're perfect companions for active families who enjoy outdoor adventures, but they're not suitable for couch-potato lifestyles.
Exercise-wise, think substantial daily commitment. These dogs need at least 1-2 hours of activity daily - not just a quick walk around the block. They excel at beach runs along the Gold Coast, bushwalking in national parks, or playing fetch in large suburban backyards. Their herding heritage means they love having jobs to do, whether that's agility training at local clubs or simply carrying their own water bottle on hikes.
Training requires patience and creativity. Beardies are independent thinkers - brilliant for making decisions while herding sheep, challenging for obedience training. They bore easily and need variety to stay engaged. Positive reinforcement works best; harsh methods can make them shut down completely.
Start socialisation early and consistently. Expose your Beardie puppy to various people, animals, and situations between 7-16 weeks. This is crucial for developing a confident, well-adjusted adult dog. Australian puppy schools are excellent for this.
Their herding instincts mean Beardies may chase cars, bikes, or try to "herd" children and other pets. Consistent training and secure fencing are essential. Many Australian owners find success with herding trials or dog sports that channel these natural instincts positively.
Remember, Beardies don't fully mature mentally until 4-6 years old, so patience is key. They remain playful throughout life, making training an ongoing adventure rather than a chore.
Who is an ideal owner?
The perfect Bearded Collie owner is someone who genuinely enjoys active outdoor living and doesn't mind a bit of dog hair on everything they own. If you're dreaming of lazy Sunday mornings in bed, this probably isn't your breed - Beardies wake up ready for adventure every single day.
You'll thrive as a Beardie owner if you love hiking, camping, or long beach walks. These dogs are perfect for families who spend weekends exploring Australia's national parks or taking caravan trips around the country. They're brilliant with children who can match their energy, though supervision is needed with toddlers due to their bouncy enthusiasm.
Patience is absolutely essential. Beardies are independent thinkers who'll test boundaries throughout their lives. First-time dog owners might find them challenging, though their affectionate nature makes the effort worthwhile. You need leadership skills without being heavy-handed - think firm but fair.
Time commitment is significant. Beyond the 1-2 hours daily exercise, you'll spend 15-30 minutes grooming every day. If you're frequently away or working long hours without dog-friendly arrangements, a Beardie will be miserable.
Space-wise, while they can adapt to larger apartments with adequate exercise, a house with a secure yard is ideal. They're not suited to tiny units or inactive lifestyles. Australian suburban life suits them perfectly, provided neighbours won't mind occasional barking.
You'll need a sense of humour and tolerance for mess. Beardies track in mud, leaves, and sand from their adventures. They're also quite vocal, expressing opinions about everything from the postman to dinner time.
Financial commitment includes quality food, regular professional grooming, and potential health costs. Pet insurance is worth considering given their size and lifespan.
Interesting facts about the Bearded Collie
Interesting Fact
The earliest known pictures of Bearded Collies appear in 1771 and 1772 paintings by famous artists Gainsborough and Reynolds, showing these dogs accompanying British aristocracy
The breed nearly went extinct in the 1940s and was saved by pure accident when Mrs
Gwendolyn Willison received the wrong puppy from a breeder - she'd ordered a Shetland Sheepdog but fell in love with her Beardie instead.
Interesting Fact
Bearded Collies have starred in numerous films and stage productions, including the original "Peter Pan" stage play where a Beardie played Nana, and more recently in "The Shaggy Dog" and "Hotel for Dogs"
Interesting Fact
The breed is also known by several traditional names: Highland Collie, Mountain Collie, and Hairy Mou'ed Collie
FAQ
Yes, Bearded Collies make excellent family pets for the right household. They're gentle with children and get along well with other animals, but they need families who can commit to daily exercise, training, and grooming. They're not suited to inactive lifestyles or families who can't dedicate time to their substantial needs.
Beardies aren't excessive barkers, but they're not quiet dogs either. They'll bark to alert you of visitors, during play, or when excited. Their herding background means they're naturally watchful and vocal about changes in their environment. Proper training can manage excessive barking.
They shed a moderate amount year-round, with heavier shedding periods seasonally. Daily brushing significantly reduces loose hair around your home and helps manage their beautiful coat. During shedding seasons, you might need to brush twice daily.
While possible in larger apartments, Beardies really need space and aren't ideal apartment dogs. They require substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation. If you live in an apartment, you'll need access to large parks or beaches and must commit to several hours of outdoor activity daily.
Beardies need 1-2 hours of substantial exercise daily, regardless of weather. In Australia's hot summers, exercise during cooler morning and evening hours. Their thick coat handles cold well but requires careful management in extreme heat. Swimming is excellent exercise, especially during warmer months.
Beardies can be challenging for first-time owners due to their independence, grooming needs, and exercise requirements. However, their affectionate nature and intelligence make them rewarding companions for dedicated beginners willing to invest time in training and care. Consider puppy training classes and professional grooming initially.