Bearded Collie

Choosing a Bearded Collie: Energy Level, Trainability & Family Fit in Canada

The Bearded Collie is a bright, bouncy herding dog with an easy grin and a windblown coat. They fit active households that enjoy training, hiking, and dog sports—and don’t shy from daily grooming.

Breed Group
Activity Level
High
Size Category
Medium
Coat Type
Long
Coat Texture
Wavy
Activity Level
High
Trainability
High
Shedding Level
Moderate
Family Friendly
Yes
Apartment Friendly
With Caveats
Hypoallergenic
No
Breed Type
Purebred

Breed History of the Bearded Collie

Originating in Scotland as an all-weather drover and hill herder, the Bearded Collie likely dates back several hundred years. Revived in the mid-20th century, the modern “Beardie” retains its hardy working spirit and cheerful temperament.

Bearded Collie Appearance: Size, Coat & Distinctive Features

Athletic and well-balanced with hallmark breed features.

  • Weight: 45–55 lb (20–25 kg)
  • Height: 20–22 in (51–56 cm)
  • Coat type: Long, shaggy double coat with soft undercoat
  • Coat colors: Black, blue, brown, fawn; often with white
  • Distinctive traits: Broad head, lively eyes, flowing coat

How to Groom a Bearded Collie: Coat Care & Maintenance

Daily attention prevents mats and keeps the coat healthy; plan for dedicated grooming time.

  • Brushing: Daily or near-daily line brushing to the skin; detangle behind ears, elbows, tail.
  • Bathing: Every 4–6 weeks; fully dry to avoid mildew in the undercoat.
  • Trims: Minimal shaping; tidy feet and sanitary areas as preferred.
  • Nails/Teeth: Trim every 2–3 weeks; brush teeth 2–3×/week.

Bearded Collie Exercise Needs: Daily Activity & Playtime Tips

High-energy and clever—needs both physical and mental work.

  • Daily duration: 60–90 minutes, including off-leash play where safe.
  • Activities: Hiking, herding, agility, rally, frisbee, obedience.
  • Weather: Coat protects in rain/wind; watch heat in summer.

Training a Bearded Collie: Behavior, Commands & Socialization

Beardies are sensitive and comedic; keep training upbeat and varied.

  • Approach: Reward-based; short, engaging sessions.
  • Focus areas: Recall, impulse control, calm settle indoors.
  • Socialization: Early, positive exposure to grooming handling and urban sights/sounds.

Bearded Collie Diet: Feeding Schedule & Nutrition Tips

Lean, athletic body condition supports longevity and joint health.

  • Food type: Complete kibble or balanced fresh diet.
  • Quantity: ~2–3 cups/day split into 2 meals—adjust to activity level.
  • Supplements: Consider omega-3s for skin/coat and joint support per vet advice.

Bearded Collie Health Issues: Common Problems & Lifespan

Choose breeders who screen for heritable conditions.

  • Orthopedic: Hip dysplasia.
  • Endocrine: Hypothyroidism; autoimmune issues can occur.
  • Immune: Addison’s disease reported in the breed.
  • Eyes: PRA and other eye conditions—request CAER results.
  • Life expectancy: 12–14 years.

Where to Adopt or Find Bearded Collie Puppies in Canada

Partner with ethical breeders or look into rescue if a working home isn’t a match.

  • Breeders: CKC/AKC club referrals; OFA hips, CAER eyes.
  • Contracts: Health guarantees and lifetime take-back.
  • Rescue: Bearded Collie rescue networks in Canada/US.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Bearded Collie

Are Bearded Collies good apartment dogs?
Typically better in homes with yards; apartments work only with significant daily exercise.

Do Bearded Collies shed?
Yes. Regular brushing reduces loose hair and mats.

Are they good with kids?
Affectionate and playful; supervise with toddlers due to herding enthusiasm.

How hard is the grooming?
Time-intensive; daily brushing and periodic baths are standard.

How much exercise do they need?
Plan for 60–90 minutes daily, plus training games.

Dog Name Generator – Find the Perfect Name for Your puppy!

Looking for the perfect name for your ? Whether your puppy is playful and goofy, calm and regal, or a bundle of boundless energy, our AI-powered Dog Name Generator is here to help. Barkley, our dog-loving AI assistant, will suggest personalized names based on your pup’s personality, appearance, and your preferred naming style.
  • personalities – Names that reflect your pups gentle, friendly nature.
  • Choose your naming style – Cute, strong, nature-inspired, or a quirky wildcard.
  • Fast, fun, and free – Get unique names in under a minute.

Other Herding Dogs

Breed Related Articles

Curious which dogs are the easiest to train? This guide reveals the smartest dog breeds in Canada, from the quick-thinking Border Collie and loyal German Shepherd to the adaptable Poodle and Golden Retriever. Learn how intelligence affects trainability, discover top working, herding, and hybrid breeds, and explore expert tips to keep clever dogs mentally challenged and happy. Whether you’re training a pup or choosing your next companion, these breeds combine brains, obedience, and heart.
Looking for a dog that won’t leave fur everywhere or trigger your allergies? This guide highlights the best low-shedding dog breeds in Canada, from small lapdogs like the Havanese and Maltese to athletic companions such as the Portuguese Water Dog and Standard Poodle. You’ll learn how to manage dander, grooming schedules, and find allergy-friendly dogs that suit your lifestyle — whether you live in a condo or on a country property. Includes top low-shedding mixes like Goldendoodles and Cavapoos, with links to detailed breed profiles for easy exploration.
Looking for the perfect family dog? This guide explores Canada’s most family-friendly breeds by group — from playful Sporting dogs like Labradors and Golden Retrievers to gentle Toy breeds ideal for apartment living. You’ll learn which dogs are best with kids, how to match a breed to your lifestyle, and why hybrids like Goldendoodles have become popular choices for Canadian families. Whether you’re active and outdoorsy or prefer calm cuddles at home, this article helps you find your perfect companion and links directly to detailed breed profiles for every recommendation.
Dog allergies don’t have to stop your family from owning a pup. Discover the top hypoallergenic dog breeds in Canada that are low-shedding, family-friendly, and perfect for allergy-sensitive homes.