In 1989, a Bearded Collie named Potterdale Classic at Moonhill bounded into the spotlight, winning Best in Show at Crufts — the world’s most prestigious dog show. It was a triumph for a breed that had nearly disappeared entirely just decades earlier. Today, however, the “Beardie” faces a different challenge: the Kennel Club now classifies them as a Vulnerable Native Breed, with registration numbers falling so low that this beloved Scottish herder’s future once again hangs in the balance.
The Bearded Collie is a dog of contradictions — a hardy working sheepdog wrapped in a glamorous, flowing coat; an independent thinker who lives to make their family laugh; a breed so ancient that records trace their ancestry to the 1500s, yet so rare that only around 110 were registered in Australia in recent years. For those who fall under their spell, Beardies are utterly irresistible: bouncy, joyful dogs with an almost comedic personality and a distinctive “dreamy” expression that sets them apart from any other breed.
But that magnificent coat demands commitment, and the Beardie’s boisterous energy and independent streak aren’t for everyone. This comprehensive guide will help you understand whether the Bearded Collie’s unique blend of beauty, brains, and bounce is right for your Australian home.
What You’ll Learn
- The fascinating way Bearded Collie colours change throughout their lives
- Grooming requirements for that iconic shaggy coat
- Important health conditions including Addison’s disease
- Exercise and training needs for this spirited herding breed
- Realistic costs for Australian owners
Bearded Collie Quick Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Breed Group | Pastoral/Herding |
| Origin | Scotland (1500s) |
| Size Category | Medium |
| Height (Male) | 53-56 cm (21-22 inches) |
| Height (Female) | 51-53 cm (20-21 inches) |
| Weight | 18-27 kg (40-60 lbs) |
| Lifespan | 12-14 years (UK study: 13.9 years) |
| Coat Type | Long, shaggy double coat with distinctive beard |
| Exercise Needs | 4/5 (High — at least 1 hour/day) |
| Trainability | 3/5 (Intelligent but independent) |
| Good with Children | Yes — excellent family dogs |
| Grooming Requirements | 5/5 (Very High — several hours weekly) |
| Average Puppy Price (AUD) | $1,500 – $2,500 |
Data sourced from The Kennel Club UK and Dogs Australia breed standards.¹
History of the Bearded Collie
The Bearded Collie’s origins stretch back centuries into the misty Scottish Highlands. The most widely accepted theory traces them to the early 1500s, when Polish merchants arrived in Scotland with Polish Lowland Sheepdogs (Polski Owczarek Nizinny). These dogs were crossed with local herding breeds, eventually producing the shaggy, bearded dogs that became indispensable to Scottish shepherds.²
For hundreds of years, Bearded Collies worked the remote hillsides of Scotland, herding sheep and driving cattle to market. They were bred for function, not fashion — hardy dogs capable of working independently in harsh conditions, sometimes out of sight of their handlers for hours. This heritage explains their characteristic independence and problem-solving abilities.
Like many working breeds, the Bearded Collie nearly vanished after World War I as traditional farming practices declined. By the early 1940s, the breed was on the brink of extinction. Then, in 1944, Mrs. G. Olive Willison of the Bothkennar kennels accidentally received a Bearded Collie puppy named Jeannie when she’d ordered a Shetland Sheepdog. Captivated by the breed, she searched for a mate and eventually found a grey dog named Bailie on a beach — a dog belonging to a man emigrating from Scotland. These two dogs, Jeannie and Bailie of Bothkennar, became the foundation of the modern show Bearded Collie.³
The breed was first registered with the Kennel Club in 1959 and arrived in Australia in the early 1970s. While never achieving the popularity of the Border Collie, Beardies developed a devoted following among those who appreciated their unique combination of working ability and joyful temperament.
Bearded Collie Temperament
The Bearded Collie Club of America’s breed standard captures the essence of this breed: “stable and self-confident, showing no signs of shyness or aggression.” But that formal description barely hints at the Beardie’s irrepressible personality — these dogs are the comedians of the dog world.
Bouncy and Joyful: Beardies are famous for their “Beardie bounce” — a characteristic enthusiastic leaping that perfectly captures their exuberant personalities. They approach life with infectious joy, and their enthusiasm is contagious. Even well into their senior years, many Beardies retain this bouncy, puppyish quality.
Independent Thinkers: Bred to work sheep on remote hillsides without constant direction, Beardies learned to make their own decisions. This heritage means they’re intelligent problem-solvers but can also be willful. They’ll sometimes decide they know better than you — and they might be right.
Affectionate and Social: Unlike some more reserved herding breeds, Beardies are typically outgoing and friendly with everyone. They adore their families and want to be involved in all activities. Their “dreamy, faraway gaze” is a distinctive characteristic — but don’t let it fool you; they’re paying attention to everything.
Playful and Comical: Bearded Collies seem to have a sense of humour. They’ll clown around deliberately to make their families laugh, and they retain playfulness throughout their lives. Owners often describe them as making them laugh every single day.
Alert but Not Aggressive: Beardies make reasonable watchdogs and will alert you to visitors, but they’re generally friendly rather than protective. They’re more likely to greet strangers with a wagging tail than with suspicion.
Long-time Beardie owners often say these dogs are addictive. As one Australian breeder with over 40 years in the breed observed: “Once you’ve had a Beardie, it’s hard to imagine life without that daily dose of joy. They make you laugh every single day with their antics. But they’re also surprisingly sensitive dogs — they know when you need comfort and will be right there. It’s a special combination you don’t find in many breeds.”
Bearded Collies are generally excellent family dogs. Their playful, bouncy nature makes them wonderful companions for active children, and their tolerance and good humour help them cope with the unpredictability of family life. Their herding instinct is typically mild compared to breeds like Border Collies, though some may attempt to “herd” running children. Always supervise interactions with young children, as a bouncing Beardie can accidentally knock over a toddler.
Most Beardies get along well with other dogs and can coexist happily with cats, especially when raised together. Their prey drive is typically lower than some herding breeds. However, individual personalities vary, and early socialisation is always important for good relationships with other household pets.
If your Bearded Collie becomes barky, destructive, or develops escape artist tendencies — jumping fences or digging under them — insufficient exercise and mental stimulation are almost certainly the cause. Beardies were bred to work and need activity. A bored Beardie will entertain itself, often in ways you won’t appreciate. The solution is more exercise, more mental challenges, and more engagement with the family. These are not dogs that thrive when left to their own devices.
Bearded Collie Health Issues
If you’re worried about health issues, the Bearded Collie’s history as a hardy working dog means they’re generally robust. A 2024 UK study found their life expectancy was 13.9 years — higher than both the average for purebreds (12.7 years) and crossbreeds (12 years). However, like all breeds, they have some genetic predispositions that responsible owners should understand.⁴
According to veterinary research, these are the conditions most relevant to Bearded Collie owners.⁵
Prevalence: Approximately 3.1% of Beardies — roughly 30 times higher than the general dog population rate of 0.1%
Description: Addison’s disease occurs when the adrenal glands don’t produce enough cortisol and aldosterone hormones. Research published in the Bearded Collie Foundation for Health’s 2019 survey found this is the most significant health concern in the breed.⁶
Symptoms: Can be vague (lethargy, digestive issues, weakness) but can also present as life-threatening “Addisonian crisis”
Management: With proper diagnosis and lifelong medication, affected dogs can live normal, happy lives⁷
Prevalence: 11.1% of over 3,000 Bearded Collies had some form of autoimmune disease (2019 health survey)
Conditions Include: Pemphigus foliaceous (a skin disease) and various thyroid conditions
Prevention: Dogs with autoimmune disorders should not be bred from
Like many medium-to-large breeds, Beardies can develop hip dysplasia. The Australian Veterinary Association recommends screening breeding dogs.⁸ Responsible breeders have their dogs hip and elbow scored before breeding.
Conditions: Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA) and Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) occur in the breed
Testing: DNA testing is available, and reputable breeders screen for these conditions
Prevention: Ask to see CEA/PRA test results for both parents before purchasing a puppy
Health Testing Requirements:
- Hip and elbow scoring
- CEA (Collie Eye Anomaly) DNA test
- PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy) DNA test
- Annual eye examination certificates
- No breeding from dogs with autoimmune conditions
Bearded Collie Lifespan & Longevity Tips
Bearded Collies typically live 12-14 years, with a 2024 UK Kennel Club study finding an average life expectancy of 13.9 years — well above average for dogs their size. Many Beardies remain active and bouncy well into their senior years. A 2004 Kennel Club survey found leading causes of death were old age (26%), cancer (19%), cerebrovascular disease (9%), and chronic kidney failure (8%).
Tips for a Longer, Healthier Life:
- Choose a puppy from health-tested parents (hip scores, eye tests, CEA/PRA clear)
- Learn the signs of Addison’s disease and act quickly on any concerns
- Maintain healthy weight — obesity stresses joints
- Provide adequate exercise to support physical and mental health
- Keep up with regular veterinary check-ups including dental care
- Keep the coat clean and well-groomed to prevent skin issues
Bearded Collie Grooming Guide
There’s no sugarcoating this: Bearded Collies require serious grooming commitment. That glorious shaggy coat — while beautiful — demands regular attention to prevent matting and keep your dog comfortable. If you’re not prepared for this, the Beardie is not the breed for you.
The Bearded Collie has a double coat: a soft, dense undercoat beneath a flat, harsh, shaggy outer coat that should never be trimmed for show purposes. The characteristic beard grows from the cheeks, lower lips, and under the chin. The coat parts naturally and falls to either side of the body.
One of the most fascinating aspects of Bearded Collies is their changing coat colour. Puppies are born black, blue, brown, or fawn. Around 8 weeks, they begin to fade — blacks turn grey, blues become silver, browns lighten to cinnamon, and fawns become champagne. This fading continues until about one year of age, when the process reverses and they begin to darken again. However, adult Beardies never become as dark as they were at birth. This “fading gene” is unique among dog breeds and can surprise new owners who expect their black puppy to stay black!
Many Australian Beardie owners choose to have their dogs professionally clipped once or twice yearly to make maintenance more manageable. As one experienced owner explained: “I kept the full coat for showing, and it was 30-60 minutes of brushing several times a week, plus hours before a show. For pet owners, a clip makes life much easier — your Beardie is still beautiful, just more practical. Some people feel guilty about clipping, but a comfortable, mat-free dog is happier than one with a neglected coat.”
Quality Australian grooming products like Plush Puppy or PAW by Blackmores work well for the Beardie coat. A good pin brush, slicker brush, and metal comb are essential tools.
Grooming Schedule (Full Coat)
| Task | Frequency | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thorough Brushing | 2-3x weekly minimum | 30-60 mins | Down to skin, section by section |
| Quick Check/Brush | Daily | 10-15 mins | Check for mats behind ears, armpits |
| Bathing | Every 4-6 weeks | 1-2 hours | Including drying (very important) |
| Professional Groom | Optional — 1-2x yearly | 2-3 hours | $100-$180 if keeping full coat |
| Teeth Brushing | 2-3x weekly | 2-3 mins | Or dental chews daily |
Bearded Collie Exercise Needs
Bearded Collies are active, energetic dogs that need regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. The RSPCA Australia recommends at least one hour of exercise daily for herding breeds, though many Beardies benefit from more.⁹
Unlike some high-drive working breeds, Beardies are generally adaptable. They can enjoy a vigorous hike or be content with active play sessions in the backyard. What they can’t tolerate is being ignored — these social dogs need engagement with their families, not just physical activity.
- Long walks or hikes
- Games of fetch and retrieve (they often excel at this)
- Dog sports: agility, rally obedience, herding trials
- Swimming (many Beardies love water)
- Free play in a secure, fenced area
- Interactive games and puzzle toys for mental stimulation
If your Bearded Collie becomes hyperactive indoors, barks excessively, or develops destructive behaviours, insufficient exercise is the most likely cause. These dogs were bred to work all day in the Scottish hills. Add more activity — both physical and mental — and most behavioural issues resolve. Beardies left alone in backyards without interaction will become frustrated, potentially leading to escape attempts, excessive barking, and digging.
Bearded Collie Training Tips
Trainability Score: 3/5 – Intelligent but independent
Don’t be discouraged if your Bearded Collie occasionally seems to have selective hearing — their independent streak is part of their heritage as working dogs who made decisions without human guidance. The key is making training engaging enough that they want to cooperate.
According to the American Kennel Club, Beardies are intelligent and capable of learning a wide range of skills, but they can be “headstrong” and require patient, consistent training.¹⁰
Key Training Principles:
- Use positive reinforcement — Beardies are sensitive and don’t respond well to harsh corrections
- Keep training sessions short, varied, and fun
- Start socialisation early to build confidence
- Be patient and consistent — they’ll test boundaries
- Make it a game — Beardies respond to playful training
- Consider dog sports like agility or rally to channel their intelligence
Socialisation & Training Timeline
| Age | Training Focus | Expected Outcomes |
|---|---|---|
| 8-12 weeks | Socialisation, grooming introduction, toilet training | Comfortable with handling and grooming routine |
| 3-4 months | Basic commands, leash walking, continued socialisation | Responds to name, sits, walks on lead |
| 4-6 months | Recall, impulse control, puppy classes | Reliable basic obedience in low distraction |
| 6-12 months | Adolescent training, advanced skills, sport introduction | Well-mannered adolescent, exploring activities |
Expect some teenage rebellion! Beardies often go through an adolescent phase where they “forget” their training and test boundaries. Stay patient and consistent — this is normal. Continue reinforcing training, maintain your sense of humour, and know that your well-trained puppy is still in there. Most Beardies mature into reliable companions by around 2-3 years of age, though they retain their playful spirit for life.
Bearded Collie Price & Costs in Australia
Understanding the true cost of Bearded Collie ownership helps you budget realistically. As a relatively rare breed in Australia, puppies may require patience to find, but responsible breeders are active in most states.
Finding Your Bearded Collie:
Find registered breeders through Dogs Australia or the Bearded Collie breed clubs in each state.¹¹ The Bearded Collie Club of NSW and Bearded Collie Club of Victoria are particularly active. Due to the breed’s rarity, expect waiting lists with quality breeders. Take the time to find a breeder who health tests — particularly given the breed’s predisposition to Addison’s disease and autoimmune conditions.
Initial Costs Table
| Expense | Approx. Cost (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Puppy Price (Pet Quality) | $1,500 – $2,500 |
| Show Quality | $2,500 – $4,000 |
| Initial Vet + Vaccinations | $200 – $350 |
| Desexing | $300 – $500 |
| Essential Supplies (bed, crate, bowls, leads) | $250 – $400 |
| Grooming Equipment (quality brushes, comb, dryer) | $150 – $300 |
| TOTAL INITIAL COST | $2,650 – $4,550 |
Annual Ongoing Costs
- Premium Food (Advance, Black Hawk, Royal Canin): $700 – $1,000
- Veterinary Care & Preventatives: $300 – $500
- Pet Insurance: $450 – $800
- Grooming (professional, if used): $400 – $800 (2-4 sessions)
- Toys, Treats, Miscellaneous: $200 – $400
TOTAL ANNUAL: $2,050 – $3,500
Lifetime Cost Estimate
Lifetime Cost Estimate: $30,000 – $52,000 (based on 14-year average lifespan)
Note: If your Beardie develops Addison’s disease, ongoing medication and monitoring will add approximately $1,000-$2,000 annually.
Is a Bearded Collie Right for You?
The perfect Bearded Collie owner appreciates both their beauty and their personality — the bouncy enthusiasm, the occasional stubbornness, and the daily laughter they bring. They’re prepared for serious grooming commitment (or willing to keep their dog clipped), can provide adequate exercise, and have the patience for training an intelligent but independent thinker. They want a family dog that’s fully part of household life, not a backyard ornament.
Home Size: House with yard preferred; adaptable to smaller spaces with adequate exercise
Yard: Secure fencing essential — they can be escape artists if bored
Climate: Tolerate various conditions but need shade in heat (heavy coat)
Work Schedule: Can manage moderate alone time but thrive with company
This can feel like a demanding list, but Beardies are actually more adaptable than some herding breeds. They don’t have the intense drive of a Border Collie — they can switch off and relax. The main non-negotiables are grooming commitment and providing enough activity and engagement.
❌ Those unwilling to commit to regular grooming
❌ People wanting a low-energy, sedentary companion
❌ Those who expect immediate, perfect obedience
❌ Owners who will leave them alone in the backyard for extended periods
❌ Anyone seeking a guard dog — they’re too friendly
The Bearded Collie is Scotland’s gift to dog lovers who want beauty, brains, and a daily dose of joy wrapped in one shaggy package. Their bouncy enthusiasm, comedic personality, and devoted nature have earned them a passionate following among those who understand and appreciate the breed.
Perfect for: Active families or individuals who can commit to grooming, appreciate a spirited personality, and want a dog that will make them laugh every day. Excellent for those interested in dog sports like agility or obedience.
Think twice if: You want a low-maintenance coat, prefer an instantly obedient dog, or can’t provide adequate exercise and engagement. The grooming commitment alone rules out many potential owners.
First-time owner verdict: Possible with commitment. Beardies are forgiving of training mistakes and their friendly nature makes them less challenging than some herding breeds. However, first-timers should be prepared for the grooming demands and understand that training requires patience with an independent thinker.
Bearded Collie FAQs
Do Bearded Collies shed?
Yes, Bearded Collies shed, though they’re often described as “average” shedders rather than heavy shedders. Their long coat means shed hair often gets trapped in the coat rather than falling on furniture — but this also contributes to matting if not brushed out regularly. Twice-yearly seasonal shedding (“blowing coat”) is more intense and requires additional grooming.
Are Bearded Collies hypoallergenic?
No, Bearded Collies are not hypoallergenic. While no dog is truly hypoallergenic, Beardies produce dander and shed hair like other dogs. If allergies are a concern, spend time with the breed before committing and consult your allergist.
How much exercise does a Bearded Collie need?
Bearded Collies need at least one hour of exercise daily, ideally more. This should include walks, active play, and mental stimulation. They’re active dogs who enjoy hiking, fetch, and dog sports, but they’re also adaptable and can relax at home between activities — unlike some more intense herding breeds.
Are Bearded Collies good family dogs?
Yes, Bearded Collies are excellent family dogs. They’re playful, tolerant, and affectionate with children of all ages. Their bouncy nature makes them wonderful playmates for active kids. Supervision is always recommended with young children, as an enthusiastic Beardie bounce can knock over a toddler.
What is the difference between a Bearded Collie and an Old English Sheepdog?
While both are shaggy herding breeds, they’re distinct. Old English Sheepdogs are larger and heavier, typically have docked tails (where legal), and have a more “bear-like” appearance. Beardies are more lean and athletic, always have full tails, and have a distinctive “bright, inquiring expression.” Beardies are generally more active than OES.
Why does my Bearded Collie’s colour change?
Bearded Collies carry a unique “fading gene” that causes their coat colour to change throughout their lives. Puppies born black, blue, brown, or fawn will fade significantly during their first year, then gradually darken again — but never to their birth colour. A black puppy may become grey as a teenager, then settle as a dark grey adult. This is completely normal and one of the breed’s fascinating characteristics.
How much do Bearded Collies cost in Australia?
Pet-quality Bearded Collie puppies from registered breeders typically cost $1,500-$2,500 AUD. Show-quality puppies range from $2,500-$4,000. Due to the breed’s rarity in Australia, expect waiting lists with quality breeders. Avoid suspiciously cheap puppies or those available immediately — ethical breeders rarely have puppies sitting unsold.
What health problems do Bearded Collies have?
The most significant health concern is Addison’s disease (hypoadrenocorticism), which affects around 3% of the breed — much higher than the general dog population. Other concerns include hip dysplasia and eye conditions (CEA, PRA). Overall, they’re a healthy breed with good longevity. Always buy from breeders who health test their breeding dogs.
Primary Sources:
- The Kennel Club UK & Dogs Australia — Breed standards: thekennelclub.org.uk, dogsaustralia.org.au
- Wikipedia — Bearded Collie breed history and Polish Lowland Sheepdog origins
- Bearded Collie Club of America — Breed history and Mrs. Willison’s founding of modern breed
Veterinary & Health Sources:
- UK Kennel Club 2024 Longevity Study — 13.9 year life expectancy finding
- PetMD — Bearded Collie health and care: petmd.com
- Bearded Collie Foundation for Health 2019 Survey — Addison’s disease prevalence (3.1%)
- Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine — Addison’s disease in dogs: vet.cornell.edu
- Australian Veterinary Association — Breed health guidelines: ava.com.au
Australian-Specific Sources:
- RSPCA Australia — Exercise guidelines for herding breeds: rspca.org.au
- American Kennel Club — Training recommendations: akc.org
- Dogs Australia — Breeder directory: dogsaustralia.org.au