Overview
Average lifespan
A Bearded Collie will normally live to 15 years of age.
Average size
51cm to 56cm
22kg to 28kg
Care requirements
Breed personality, characteristics & temperament
Bearded Collies are happy, lively, energetic and affectionate family dogs. Visit a Beardie at home and you may well find it curled up on a couch or helping out in the kitchen. These dogs love to be where the action is and adapt easily to almost any situation. Most of all, Beardies love company and are not happy if locked outside and ignored. The breed is extremely affectionate and expects a lot of loving attention. These are sensitive dogs and do not respond well to harsh treatment. Generally speaking, do not expect a Bearded Collie to be much of a guard dog. They may bark at the doorbell, but will probably welcome burglars as if they were your best friends.
Compatibility with other pets
Excellent.
Care requirements
Its beautiful coat does require some work to keep it looking glamorous. Compared with a smooth coated dog, a Beardie does need consistent and frequent grooming, however, unlike some long coated breeds, a thorough brush and comb through once a week will keep an adult Beardie in pretty good condition. Make sure that you keep your dog flea free, groom it regularly, keep it happy and in good health and your Beardie will thrive. Unless your dog is to be a member of your family, the Bearded Collie is probably not the dog for you.
Decision time
Ideal owners
Many dogs demonstrate the combination of beauty and brains for which this breed is so renowned by competing successfully in obedience and agility competitions. This is an enjoyable option for owners who don't necessarily want to show their dogs, but would like to be actively involved in some other way.
Decision time (resources provided by Kennel Club):
Before making a decision on getting a puppy, here are some articles you might find helpful:
What do I need to consider when thinking of buying a puppy?
How do I find the right breeder, what should I ask them?
How do you check if the breeder is reputable?
What to ask your vet prior to buying a puppy?
Where to find dogs (resources provided by the Kennel Club):
Breeders
Adoption
Shelters
Find out about important information about purchasing dogs from pet shops and traders