Although they have existed in Britain for more than three hundred years, it is not easy to trace the historyof the Bearded Collie. Beardies were mainly humble working dogs, the partnes and companions of shepherds, drovers, and country folk. in the highlands of Great Britain and Scotland. Beardies are not everyone's cup of tea. Their intelligence, problem-solving ability, energy and drive that they need for work make them interesting and sometimes challenging dogs to live with. Beardies need exercise. An easy walk around the block won't do it. He needs a chance to run off some steam.
They also need mental exercise and they love to slve problems. The problem may be as simple as learning to open a latch on a crate (a gate or door).
The Bearded Collie is an alert, lively, self-confident and active dog. Steady, intelligent working dog, with no signs of nervousness or aggression. They are wonderful companions for children.
Photo courtesy of hundund (hundund.de)
Coat
Double with the undercoat soft, furry and close. Outercoat flat, harsh, strong and shaggy, free from woolliness and curl, though a slight wave is permissible. Length and density of the hair should be sufficient to provide a protective coat and to enhance the shape of the dog, but not enough to obscure the natural lines of the body. The coat must not be trimmed in any way. On the head, the bridge of the nose should be sparsely covered with hair which is slightly longer on the side just to cover the lips. From the cheeks, the lower lips and under the chin, the coat should increase in length towards the chest, forming the typical beard.
Color
Slate grey, reddish fawn, black, blue, all shades of gray, brown and sandy, with or without white markings.
Size
20-22 inches at shoulders.
Adapted from:
1. FCI-Standard # 271/24.08.1988
2. Carol Gold. Bearded Collie