Discover Everything About Bearded Collie
Learn about the breed characteristics, health, history, and find trusted breeders
At a glance
Bearded Collie overview
The essentials — key facts, traits, and health priorities — before you dive deeper.
Health grade
Relative to other breeds
The Bearded Collie is a robust and generally healthy breed, with typical risks well-managed through selective breeding tests. Important conditions such as Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA) and hip dysplasia (HD) are effectively controlled through mandatory health tests. Prospective buyers should also ask the breeder about the M-locus to avoid risky merle-to-merle matings and associated health defects.
Lifespan
12–14 yrs
Height
51–56 cm
Weight
18–30 kg
Practical
- Puppy price: 1,200 – 2,500 €
- Coat: Long, dense, undercoat present
- Origin: Scotland
Typical coat colors
- Any shade of gray or chocolate brown
- with or without white markings
Temperament
Daily life
What matters most
Especially with a Bearded Collie, choosing the right breeder is the single most important decision you'll make. Serious breeders consistently test the parents for inherited conditions, prioritize healthy early socialization, and stay accountable long after handover. A cheap puppy without health screening tends to become the most expensive dog later on.
See HonestDog breeder standards →Is the Bearded Collie right for you?
The Bearded Collie is a cheerful, extremely sensitive Hütehund (herding dog) — bred to independently and tirelessly guide Scottish sheep flocks across rugged terrain. Beneath that lush coat, there remains a quick-reacting, vocal worker who needs plenty of exercise.
Perfect for you if:
- You are up for long walks every single day, regardless of the weather — this dog was selected for the Scottish Highlands and will wither away with just short strolls.
- You lead with sensitivity and a quiet demeanor, as he will completely withdraw in response to harshness or loud words.
- You have the time and patience for intensive weekly grooming to ensure his long coat doesn't become matted.
- You live in a rural area or have a garden where his natural urge to move won't bother anyone.
Less ideal if:
- You live in a thin-walled apartment — herding dogs often use their voices to control movement, and the Beardie is no exception.
- You value a meticulously clean home, as that long coat brings plenty of dirt, moisture, and leaves inside every day.
- You have small children and don't want to manage his instinct to try and herd playing kids by nipping at their heels.
The real vibes check
Don't let the elegant, shaggy look fool you — deep down, the Bearded Collie is a robust nature-lover who would much rather run through muddy fields than pose cleanly on the sofa. You aren't getting a quiet cuddle-bear, but a quick-reacting, highly sensitive partner who mirrors your every mood and always wants to know if the two of you have a job to do.
Breed Profile
The Bearded Collie, also known as "Beardie" called, is a dog full of charm and personality. His name "Bearded" means "bearded" and refers to the distinctive fur on his chin that looks like a beard. With its flowing, long and dense coat of fur and cheerful wagging tail, it is an unmistakable sight. His expression is bright and alert, and his eyes, often hidden by his fur, shine with intelligence and curiosity. The Beardie is a medium-sized dog with a powerful build and well-proportioned features. His movements are fluid and effortless, highlighting his working dog ancestry. Bearded Collies belong to FCI Group 1, herding and driving dogs, and are excellent working dogs. There are no distinct differences between show and performance lines, although individual dogs may vary in their working ability and temperament.
| Height | 51 - 53 cm (Female), 53 - 56 cm (Male) |
| Weight | 18 - 27 kg (Female), 20 - 30 kg (Male) |
| Life Expectancy | 12 - 14 years |
| Character | Active, intelligent, friendly |
| Coat | Long, dense, undercoat present |
| Coat Color | Any shade of gray or chocolate brown, with or without white markings |
| Price | 1200 - 2500 € |
Health
Solid
Health grade
The Bearded Collie is a robust and generally healthy breed, with typical risks well-managed through selective breeding tests. Important conditions such as Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA) and hip dysplasia (HD) are effectively controlled through mandatory health tests. Prospective buyers should also ask the breeder about the M-locus to avoid risky merle-to-merle matings and associated health defects.
Grade is relative to other breeds — AI-generated by our veterinary-genetics model.
In daily life this can mean
With joint-friendly exercise, diligent grooming, and attention to any physical changes, you can support your dog well in daily life and spot potential issues early on.
The breeder's role
Reputable breeders have the parents' hips and eyes tested and are intimately familiar with their lineage history to minimize the risk of autoimmune diseases.
Frequently asked questions about the Bearded Collie
Is a Bearded Collie the right dog for me?
The Bearded Collie is an active dog that needs plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Research the temperament, grooming needs, and space requirements before deciding.
How long does a Bearded Collie live?
The average life expectancy of a Bearded Collie is 12-14 years. With proper care and regular vet visits, your dog can live a long, healthy life.
How much grooming does a Bearded Collie need?
Bearded Collie grooming requirements include regular brushing, nail trimming, and dental care. HonestDog provides detailed grooming tips for every breed.
Is a Bearded Collie good for families with children?
The Bearded Collie can be a great family dog. Proper training and socialization are key. HonestDog provides family suitability information for every breed.
Bearded Collie Breeders Near You
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Guides & Resources
Guides, checklists, and breed profiles — so you can make a well-informed decision.