BeardedCollie

Also known as the Long Bearded Sheepdog and Highland Sheepdog, and originally from England, the overall appearance of this dog is very similar to the Ancient Sheepdog, in size and coat length, including the name. The coat of the Ancient Long Bearded Sheepdog drops down along the contours of the body. Allowing for a gap in the lower part of the body, the body is long and sloping, and although strong, it does not appear bulky. The Ancient Long Bearded Sheepdog has always been one of the most popular breeds with humans, making him not only a great companion for them, but also an excellent working dog. It is a natural, unadorned breed. The ideal adult male should be approximately 21 to 22 inches tall at the shoulder; the adult female should be approximately 20 to 21 inches tall at the shoulder. A height below these standards is a serious defect. This size standard is strictly adhered to in order to ensure that the Ancient Long Bearded Sheepdog is a medium sized dog. There is a double coat with a soft, thick and dense undercoat. The outer coat is flat, coarse, firm and fluffy, not downy or curled, however, a slight wavy appearance is permitted. The coat should hang naturally from the sides of the body, but should not be artificially separated from the coat. The coat should be of sufficient length and density to provide protection and to well define the dog's conformation, and should not be so dense as to interfere with the natural outline of the body. The appearance should be carefully groomed to appear natural and harmonious, but the coat should never be trimmed in any way. The head and nose are covered with slightly sparse hair that is slightly longer, drops to the sides and covers the lips. The length of hair on the cheeks, lower lip and jaw grows gradually towards the chest, forming a typical beard. Excessively long coats, silky coats, or coats that are trimmed in any way are considered serious defects. All Ancient Long Bearded Sheepdogs may be born black, orchid, tan or camel with or without white markings. As the coat matures, it will lighten, with dogs born black changing color to different shades of gray: from black to blue-gray to silver; dogs born tan changing color to different shades of chocolate to beach; and dogs born orchid and camel changing color to different shades of dark to light. White markings, which should only appear on the white bands of the face, on the head, on the tip of the tail, on the chest, on the legs and paws and around the neck. The Ancient Long Bearded Sheepdog has a strong curiosity, can live peacefully with other pets, is loyal to its owner, will bark a few times in excitement at new people, and will show very enthusiastic gestures of welcome.

This dog needs physical and emotional encouragement. Very friendly and very active, his herding instincts make him enjoy playing games with people. Beware if you have young children, as he is happy to play "rough and tumble."

The Ancient Long Bearded Sheepdog is a true working dog that is brave and alert, combining strength and agility. A companion and servant to man for centuries, the Ancient Long Bearded Sheepdog is an intelligent and affectionate member of the family. Firm and confident, he has no tendency to be shy or aggressive.

The Long Bearded Sheepdog is intelligent, friendly, lively, smart, confident, has a loving expression, is calm, enjoys regular exercise, has plenty of energy, is most happy playing outside, and is a healthy breed. It has a strong curious expression and does not have a tendency to get excited and aggressive. Excellent personality, easy-going, always popular with human companions.