The Bearded Collie is an ancient breed of dog that originated in Scotland. Many theories exist regarding the creation of this breed, but it is known to have existed since at least the 1500s.

Bearded Collies are medium sized dogs that stand at 20-22 inches and weigh in at 40-60 pounds. They have a long, lean body with a long tail that is carried low unless it is excited. Their coat is long and shaggy, it covers the entire body, including face and chin (creating a ‘beard'). Puppies are born black, blue, brown or fawn, with or without white markings. This puppy coat may lighten and change as the Bearded Collie matures.

There are many theories involving the creation of the Bearded Collie, some of the more popular are outlined below:

     • The result of a cross between the Rough/Smooth Collie and the Old English Sheepdog
     • It is descended from the Polish Lowland Sheepdog and crosses with indigenous Scottish dogs
     • It is descended from the now extinct Old Welsh Grey
     • It is descended from the Hungarian Komondor

The first can be discounted, as the Bearded Collie is much older than the Old English Sheepdog, and is in fact it’s likely ancestor. The answer is probably a blending of the remaining theories. In 1514 a Polish merchant traded a shipment of grain for sheep in Scotland, bringing six Polish Lowland Sheepdogs (whose ancestor is thought to be the Komondor) with him. These dogs were then bred with local Scottish dogs (quite possibly the Collie) and the result of this cross could have led to both the Old Welsh Grey and the Bearded Collie, with either appearing first.

However it came to be, the Bearded Collie has been known in Scotland since the 1500s and was used for centuries as a drover’s dog, working with both cattle and sheep. It slowly fell out of favor until by the end of WWII it was nearly extinct. The breed was saved by Olive Willison, who had asked a Scottish farmer to supply her with a Shetland Sheepdog, some mishap occurred and the pup she received was in fact a Bearded Collie. This pup, along with a dog she obtained later became the basis for the breed we know today.

Bearded Collies are lively, exuberant dogs that are highly intelligent; however, some individuals can be difficult to train. A true working breed, they are happiest when they have a job to do and can turn destructive or bored if left for long periods of time. This breed excels at agility trials and dog sports. If you can keep them stimulated mentally and exercised Bearded Collies make wonderful family pets and get along well with other dogs, children, and non-canine pets they are raised with.

The typical lifespan for a Bearded Collie is 12-13 years. They are prone to hip dysplasia and skin problems.

Although Bearded Collies can adjust to apartment life it is recommended that they have at least a small yard. They need to have a safe, enclosed place to run and enjoy the outdoors. Daily walks are a must in either environment. This breed does well on a farm or in the country.

This bred requires daily, thorough brushing to keep it free of mats. If preferred they can be clipped shorter on a regular basis, although this does not diminish the need for daily grooming. They are average shedders.