The Breed
The bearded collie, affectionately called the beardie, is a highly intelligent herder. Bred for centuries to drive sheep from the mountains of the Scottish Highlands, it has maintained the strength, speed, and agility characteristic of a real working dog. Its boundless energy paired with a deeply ingrained herding instinct spurs it to give chase whenever it has the chance. Stable and self-confident, the beardie generally shows no signs of shyness or aggression, and its tireless and affable nature makes it a devoted companion and lively family pet.

Work History
One of Britain’s most ancient breeds, the bearded collie was developed in Scotland as a herding dog for sheep and cattle. Its ancestors likely included herding dogs from the European continent, such as the Poland lowland sheepdog and the Komondor, which were bred with the local Scottish dogs to produce a more able and agile herder — the beardie.
An independent worker, the beardie worked long days on the rugged terrain and displayed keen intelligence and self-reliance when it came to the safety of its charges. As the shepherd was often miles away and unable to deliver commands, it was up to the dog to make decisions concerning the sheep’s welfare. Though flocks intermingled freely on the Scottish hillsides, it has been said that a beardie never brought home a single sheep that belonged to another herdsman.

Over the past few decades, the bearded collie has been superseded as top herder by the border collie, which possesses a stronger instinct for driving sheep. Having lost popularity as a working breed, the beardie was destined to die out, but for the efforts of a handful of shepherds who still considered it the top dog. Today, the beardie is rebounding, not only as a working sheep dog in the British Isles, Australia, and the U.S., but also as a show dog and beloved family companion.

Physical Qualifications

Height: 20-22 inches
Weight: 40-60 pounds

Special Adaptations for Work: The bearded collie sports a double coat to insulate it from the harsh elements that whip the northern Highlands. Its feet are well-padded and fully furred between the toes, offering the dog protection throughout the arduous workday. Powerful and muscular hindquarters enable it to spring high — or bounce — above tall vegetation in the fields, as well as make the sharp turns and sudden stops required of a sheep dog, even when running at top speed.