Overview
The Bearded Collie was Scotland's hill and droving dog, moving sheep and cattle over rough ground and long distances. It is a medium-sized dog under a long, shaggy, double coat in grey, fawn, blue or brown, often with white, and it moves with a springy, enthusiastic bounce that is the breed's signature.
Beardies are outgoing, confident and playful with most people and dogs. They are easier in temperament than many herding breeds, with less intensity and more clowning, but they still need exercise and a reason to use their brain.
Exercise and walking needs
Ninety minutes a day across two outings keeps an adult happy. They love open ground where they can gallop and will go all day on a hill walk.
Puppies and adolescents are boisterous and need steady, structured walks rather than endless chasing. Seniors keep their enthusiasm but need a shorter route.
On the walk
- Recall: Generally good. Beardies like company and check back often, but they can be distracted by play with other dogs.
- Other dogs: Friendly and playful, sometimes to excess. They may try to round up other dogs with bouncing and barking.
- Coat: Long hair soaks up rain, collects mud and gathers twigs and seeds. The dog will need drying and probably a brush.
- Lead manners: Enthusiastic at the start, bouncing rather than pulling. A harness suits the coat better than a collar.
- Voice: Beardies bark when excited, at play and sometimes when herding other dogs. It is cheerful rather than aggressive.
Tips for professional walkers
- Carry a big towel and plan to spend five minutes drying off and checking the coat before the dog goes home.
- Avoid the thickest brambles and goosegrass; both end up woven into the coat.
- Use play as a reward: a tug or a short chase game goes a long way with a Beardie.
- Teach a calm return cue to interrupt over-excited herding of other dogs.
What to ask the owner
- Is the coat kept long or clipped, and how does the owner want it handled after a muddy walk?
- Does the dog herd or bark at other dogs during play, and what does the owner do about it?
- Any joint or eye conditions to be aware of on long or rough walks?