Bearded Collie - Herding

The Bearded Collie probably originated from the central European Magyar Komondor or lowland Polish Sheepdog. In fact, records show that in 1514 two lowland Polish Sheepdogs were brought to Scotland by Polish traders. Although dogs strongly resembling Bearded Collies are depicted in art dating from the 18th century, hard evidence of the breed cannot be found until the early-19th century, when the first breed description was published. These dogs were tireless herders of sheep and drovers of cattle over rough terrain in the cold Scottish mists. Long popular as a herding dog in Scotland, after the Victorian era the breed also gained favor as a show dog. Two strains, the border strain, which was brown and white with a slightly wavy coat, and the Highland strain, which had a gray and white coat, have since been interbred and merged into one breed. After World War I, the "Beardie" was once again bred solely for work. Their value as stock dogs made it difficult for outsiders to acquire one from their Shepherd family. Eventually, however, a few breeders interested in showing Beardies were able to bring some dogs to England and then to America. The AKC recognized the breed in 1977. The Beardie has since become a prominent show dog and continues as a capable herder, although he is more popular as a competitor in herding trials than as an actual working dog.