The
Bearded Collie is an unspoiled, active dog, enjoying the hardiness
and agility of a true working dog. The dog possesses a medium
length coat that is harsh and shaggy, though never woolly or curly,
naturally parting to either side and accentuating the lines of the
body, instead of hiding them. The body is long and lean and
not heavy; approximate ratio of 5 to 4, length to height.
Ideally the height at the withers is 20 to 22 inches. The head
is well proportioned and the skull is broad and flat. The eyes
are large and well set apart but not round nor protruding. The
nose is large and squaring; the muzzle is never snipy. The
shoulders are well laid back; the legs straight but not too
heavy. The chest is deep and reaches at least the elbows; the
loins are strong and a flat or steep croup is a serious flaw.
The thighs are well bent and the hocks are low; the abundantly
furnished tail is low set and reaches at least the point of
hock. The coat epitomizes naturalness and is not trimmed or
sculptured, nor is it ever long and silky. In color the adult
Bearded Collie can be any shade of gray from black to slate to
silver, or any shade of brown from chocolate to sandy; or light to
dark shades in blues or fawns. While only occurs as a foreface
blaze, on the skull, tail tip, chest, legs, feet and around the
neck. Eye color adheres to coat color and lighter color eyes
on a blue or fawn are correct.
The Bearded Collie is a
great indoor dog and loves children and his people. He does
not like to be left alone and mourns your absence. Quality
time for playing and exercise is vital and the Beardie is a curious
little man like a young human. Outside time makes the Beardie
a more balanced and relaxed indoor pet. These are soft souls
who don't cope with rough correction or handling. Be gentle
yet firm. If you're inclined towards a winsome shaggy dog who
will lick you on your saddest day, then the Bearded Collie is the
dog for you.
