Bearded Collie
Male: 20-27 kg, Female: 18-24 kg
Males: 53-56 cm, Females: 51-53 cm
12-14 years
Scotland
About the Bearded Collie
The Bearded Collie, affectionately known as the 'Beardie', is a medium-sized herding dog known for its 'shaggy' silhouette and infectious, happy-go-lucky attitude. Originally developed in Scotland to work in harsh climates, they are hardy and agile, capable of working long days in the Highlands. Their most distinctive feature is the long, flowing coat and the 'beard' that grows from the chin, giving them a wise yet whimsical expression. In the home, the Bearded Collie is a devoted family member that remains playful well into its senior years. They are famous for the 'Beardie Bounce'—a literal jump into the air to survey their surroundings or express excitement. While they are exceptionally intelligent and responsive, they possess an independent streak typical of droving breeds, requiring a patient and consistent approach to training that emphasizes positive reinforcement.
Breed Standard
Key characteristics from the breed standard
In the show ring, the Bearded Collie is a picture of effortless, ground-covering movement. The breed standard calls for a dog that is long in proportion to height, showing a strong, level topline and a characteristic reach and drive that appears totally tireless. Their coat should be harsh and flat, never woolly, following the natural lines of the body without obscuring the silhouette. What truly distinguishes the Beardie is their 'melting' expression—a soft, inquiring look from under the eyebrows that combined with their steady, balanced carriage, makes them an enchanting presence in the herding group.
In Australia
The Bearded Collie was first imported into Australia in 1970 from the United Kingdom. This first imported dog was a male known by the call name 'Davey', and his pedigree name was Osmart Black Daimon. He was imported into Australia by Mrs. J. Burnside, as established by the Bearded Collie Club of NSW.
Bred For
Droving and herding sheep and cattle in the Scottish Highlands.
Temperament
Alert, self-confident, lively, active, and intelligent. Known for being a reliable, affectionate family companion with a famously 'bouncy' personality.
Health Conditions Reported in the Breed
, , (), , Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA), and ().
Exercise Needs
High. Mental stimulation through herding trials, agility, or scent work is highly beneficial.
Grooming Needs
Heavy. Requires daily brushing to prevent matting of the long, double coat. They need a thorough 'strip-to-the-skin' grooming session once a week to manage the undercoat and remove debris.
Living Suitability
Suited to homes with a medium to large secure yard. They thrive in environments where they have space to run and play.
Good with Kids
Excellent with children; they are playful and sturdy companions. Supervision is recommended with very small children as their 'bouncy' nature and herding instincts can be overwhelming.
Good with Other Pets
Generally very good with other dogs and can live harmoniously with cats, especially if raised together. Their herding instinct may cause them to 'circle' other pets.
Trainability
Highly intelligent but can be independent and easily bored. They respond best to varied, fun, and reward-based training sessions rather than repetitive drills.
Coat & Colours
Double coat. The undercoat is soft, furry, and close; the outer coat is flat, harsh, strong, and shaggy, free from curl.. Slate grey, reddish fawn, black, blue, all shades of grey, brown, and sandy, with or without white markings.
Exercise needs vary by age, fitness, health, weather and individual temperament. Consult your veterinarian for an exercise plan appropriate for your dog.
Things to Consider
Every breed has its quirks — here's what to know
Bearded Collies are more likely to experience certain health predispositions such as Addison’s Disease and hip dysplasia; while not every dog will be affected, prospective owners should ensure breeders provide hip scores and health clearances. Their magnificent coat is a significant commitment—without daily attention, it will quickly develop painful mats and trap garden debris, mud, and moisture, which can lead to hot spots or acute moist dermatitis. Owners must be prepared for the 'Beardie Bounce' and their vocal nature, as they often use their bark to communicate or when herding. Like many herding breeds, they may have a sensitive digestive system and can be prone to gas or loose stools on standard commercial diets high in fillers; many owners find they thrive on a species-appropriate fresh raw diet. Separation anxiety can be a factor for this breed as they are deeply attached to their 'pack', so they do best in households where they aren't left alone for long periods.
Feeding Guide for Your Bearded Collie
Healthy Weight
18-27 kg
Daily Feeding Amount (general starting estimate)
450-675 grams
For an adult Bearded Collie, a fresh or raw diet should focus on high-quality animal proteins to support their active metabolism. We recommend feeding 2-3% of their ideal body weight daily. For a 22kg dog, this equates to roughly 440g to 660g of fresh food per day, divided into two meals. Adjust portions based on individual activity levels and metabolic rate.
Feeding quantities are general starting estimates only. Individual needs vary with body condition, weight trends, age, health and activity. Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition — consult a veterinarian for individualised dietary guidance.
Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition. Seek veterinary or qualified canine nutrition guidance for individualised dietary advice. Raw feeding, specific proteins or fresh foods should not be presented as preventing, treating or managing breed health conditions without veterinary diagnosis and supervision.
Majestik's Recommended Feeding Approach
Breed Diet Notes
A high-quality, protein-rich diet to support their high energy levels. They thrive on a fresh or raw diet that maintains lean muscle mass and supports skin and coat health.
At Majestik, we recommend lean proteins like Kangaroo and Beef to maintain a healthy weight, with Chicken or Lamb providing essential fats for that iconic long coat. Inclusion of oily fish (like Salmon or Sardines) provides Omega-3 fatty acids for skin health and cognitive function. Fresh seasonal vegetables can be added for fibre and micronutrients.
These are general breed-level notes only. The appropriate food and serving amount depend on the individual dog's age, health, body condition, activity and tolerance.
Majestik Recommendation
Majestik BARF meals follow our practical 70/10/10/10 approach: approximately 70% quality meat and protein ingredients, 10% edible bone, 10% vegetables and 10% offal. This gives customers a convenient fresh-food option without needing to source and portion every ingredient themselves.
Our Beef, Lamb and Roo BARF meals provide convenient fresh-food options, with suitable proteins chosen or rotated according to the individual dog.
Suitable for different needs
- Healthy adult: Majestik adult Beef, Lamb or Roo BARF meal.
- Puppy: Majestik Premium Puppy.
- Senior: Majestik Senior Blend.
- Working or highly active dog: Suitable Majestik adult meal with quantity adjusted to workload and body condition.
- Protein trial: One Majestik protein at a time.
Recommended Majestik BARF Meals
This is a practical starting recommendation for healthy dogs. Individual needs vary with age, health, body condition and activity.
Bearded Collie Feeding Calculator
Personalised raw and cooked feeding recommendations based on your dog's profile
Ideal — Ribs palpable without excess fat. Visible waist. Abdominal tuck present.
Have a question about your Bearded Collie? Dog Health AI
Why Majestik?
Fresh, raw pet food made with integrity in South Australia
Australian Made
Made in Two Wells, South Australia
Freshly Prepared
Real meat, organs, bone & wholefood ingredients
No Fillers
No cheap fillers or artificial preservatives
Family Owned
Locally owned and operated
Local Delivery
Delivery across Adelaide & selected areas
Secure Checkout
Secure payment via Shopify checkout
Subscribe & Save on Bearded Collie Meals
Get your Bearded Collie's fresh and raw meals delivered every two or four weeks. Small subscriptions are combined into a four-week box. Pause, skip or cancel anytime.
Breed Records & Facts
Oldest Recorded
18 years
Average Litter Size
4-8 puppies
Bearded Collie Owner Feedback
Real experiences and tips from Bearded Collie owners
No reviews yet
Be the first to share your experience with this breed
Other Medium Breeds
References & Sources
Breed information verified against recognised breed authorities and veterinary evidence.