AKC Group Herding Function Herding and companion Origin Britian Average Life Span 12 to 14 years Average Size medium size. 20 - 22 inches Coat Two coat types: the smooth and the rough coated. Grooming Regular brushing and combing to keep the coat mat free. Occasional trimming, ear cleaning, nail trimming. Intelligence Intelligent Trainability Although easily trained, they think independently. Temperament  The Bearded Collie is stable, self-confident, and outgoing. They are very accepting of other animals and people. By nature they love to have something to watch over. They are excellent with children Problems Basically a sturdy dog, can sometimes have allergies, hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, auto-immune disease and some eye problems.