Meet the Beardoodle.
This new, fluffy hybrid can take you by surprise.
And they’re an ideal teddy bear pooch.
But will they be the perfect addition to your family?
Or are Beardoodles a breed you should avoid?
Oh, the wonders this pooch brings…
Continue reading to learn:
- 3 fun facts about Beardoodles.
- How this mixed breed acts around people.
- The different looks to expect from this hybrid.
- 9 pros and 5 cons of Bearded Collie Poodle Mix.
- And so much more…
Table of contents
Bearded Collie Poodle mix: Appearance
First of all, this mixed pooch has a friendly face.
But like any other hybrid, this Fido could have unique looks.
So let me tell you all you need to know about Beardoodles.
Height and weight
Most of the time, this pooch is medium in size.
But as a crossed breed…
Some of them may grow bigger than you’d expect. Especially if their other parent’s a Giant Poodle.
In that case…
Here’s the average size range for a Beardoodle:
Your dog’s size | Height | Weight |
Medium Beardoodles | 15 to 22 inches (38 to 55 cm) | 40 to 59 lbs (18 to 27 kg) |
Giant Beardoodles | 17 to 23 inches (45 to 60 cm) | 80 to 90 lbs (36 to 40 kg) |
Note: This table’s based on the AKC standards for Poodles and Bearded Collies.
As a mixed pooch, puppies could grow anywhere within the size of their parent breeds.
Head and face shape
Beardoodles have a round head.
And their snout is often medium in length. Though, their muzzle could also be long and pointy.
But that depends if they take after their Poodle parent more.
As for their small, round eyes…
Beardoodles could have brown or amber irises.
Moreover, both parents have long, floppy ears. So expect this pooch to look the same.
“Wait, one of my pup’s ears is standing up.”
Oh, in that case…
Fido might have a Toy Poodle for a parent.
How can I tell?
It’s a common trait for small dogs to have only one ear standing up.
Though, it often turns to normal as they grow up.
Coat type and colors
Beardoodles have two coat types:
- Single coating.
- Double-layered.
So their coat depends on which parent they’ll take after more.
Though, both mom and dad have long, thick fur.
With that, this mix would look just as fluffy as their parents.
Additionally, their fur could be straight.
Or Fido’s hair can also be curly, like Poodles.
Moreover, Beardoodles come in many colors, such as:
- Red.
- Blue.
- Grey.
- Fawn.
- Silver.
- Sable.
- Black.
- White.
- Brown.
- Cream.
- Apricot.
- Tri-color.
Fun fact: Some Bearded Collies might have the Harlequin coat. It’s a rare, unique pattern among dog breeds.
With that, your mixed pooch could inherit the same coat.
Bearded Collie Poodle mix: Temperament
Just like their mom and dad…
Beardoodles are smart and friendly dogs.
Not to mention, experts also say:
Bearded Collies can get along with anyone. Even with other Fidos.
With this…
Beardoodles could enjoy having other dogs around them.
Aside from that, even strangers would fall for Fido’s charms. After all, this pooch is very outgoing.
But wait, there’s more.
Beardoodles are also active and playful
Beardoodles have high energy levels.
And that leads to them being active. This means they need lots of activities. Something to spend their energy on.
Otherwise, they’d get bored too fast.
And that could lead to many unwanted habits.
But as long as you keep this pooch entertained…
They’ll always be a pleasant Fido to cuddle with.
9 pros of owning a Bearded Collie Poodle mix
#1: Long lifespan
Beardoodles have a life span of 12 to 15 years.
And it’s the same length as their parents.
You see, this pooch is usually healthy. After all, they tend to live an active lifestyle.
As energetic Fidos, Beardoodles are often in great shape.
But of course, this still depends on their fur parents.
Like any other pooch…
Beardoodles need a balanced lifestyle.
So even if this hybrid has a long lifespan…
Fur parents should still take them for regular checkups.
#2: Easy to train
If you’re looking for an obedient pooch…
Beardoodles could be the answer.
You see, this energetic Fido loves training. After all, it’s a fun activity for them.
Fun fact: Bearded Collies are herding dogs.
This means they enjoy working. And they’d rather herd sheep than do nothing all day.
Aside from that…
Both parents of this pooch are also popular as show dogs.
And they run the stage with lots of confidence.
That’s why this mixed Fido does well with training.
#3: High intelligence
Beardoodles are very smart.
And it’s all thanks to their mom and dad.
Fun fact: The 2nd smartest dogs in the world are Poodles. And Bearded Collies are ranked 34.
That’s based on Dr. Stanley Coren’s book: “The Intelligence of Dogs.”
Now, having two genius Fidos as your parents?
Surely, Beardoodles would be a very clever pooch.
#4: They can be therapy dogs
Did you know the AKC says Poodles are great service dogs?
And these Fidos can give you therapy.
Now, as a hybrid…
Beardoodles could also inherit this trait.
But what makes them good at this job, you asked?
As I mentioned in pro #3…
Poodles are highly intelligent.
And they’re masters of reading their hoomans.
“But how do they do that?”
As per research:
Dogs have a skill called emotional contagion. This means they can easily tell how you feel.
Now, with a Poodle’s intelligence…
They can use that skill very well.
Also, don’t bother hiding your feelings.
These Fidos would always know the truth.
After all, dogs can smell your emotions.
So if you want a pooch that could comfort you…
A Beardoodle might help you with that.
You might also like: Can Dogs Smell Human Pheromones? 7 Surprising Facts
#5: Great with kids
Both parents of this pooch are great with kids.
And that’s what makes them ideal family dogs.
Not only are they patient enough…
But kids also adore Fido’s playful nature.
That said, both sides can benefit from each other.
How, you ask?
For one, playing with kids would burn a Beardoodle’s high energy.
At the same time, they could also be a kid’s best furry friend.
Note: This doesn’t mean you can leave children alone with Fido.
For everyone’s safety…
Always be in the same room as your Beardoodle and the kids.
#6: They’re very friendly
As I mentioned a while back…
The parents of this hybrid are friendly dogs.
And this means Beardoodles are the same.
What’s more amazing is…
This mix gets along well with most animals too.
With that, Fido would love other dogs at your home.
And since they’re very social…
Beardoodles would even befriend strangers
So when you go out for a walk, expect them to greet anyone.
To them, everyone’s their friend.
However, this could be a drawback for some fur parents.
In what ways, you ask?
First, it’s hard when your pooch bonds with the wrong person.
And lastly…
Being too friendly with strangers can be risky too.
But that’s why this mix always needs your guidance.
#7: Active and playful
Other than their outgoing nature…
Beardoodles are also full of energy.
As I mentioned in pro #5…
These Fidos love to play.
For example, they’d enjoy activities such as:
- Fetch.
- Digging.
- Chasing.
- Tug-of-war.
- Swimming.
- Treasure hunting.
With this, you’ll have a lot of fun with Beardoodles.
And if you want to take them out on adventures…
They’ll gladly join you too.
“How can you be so sure?”
Once again, these Fidos need a lot of exercise.
So if you could take them out for a:
- Jog.
- Hike.
- Swim.
- Long walk.
- Dog show.
Don’t hesitate to do it.
Your Beardoodle would love every second of these activities.
#8: Very affectionate
Beardoodles are sweet Fidos.
And they know how to adjust for your comfort.
So even if you’re just relaxing for the day…
Beardoodles will still be there with you.
And they’d settle down to match your energy.
After all…
These dogs love being around their families.
Especially if you consider a Collie’s nature, which is:
Choosing their favorite person.
So if you’re that lucky fur parent…
Expect lots of affection from a Beardoodle.
Check out also: Top 25 Most Affectionate Dog Breeds That Love To Cuddle
#9: They can be protective
Remember when I said these Fidos are too friendly?
Apparently…
That’s not always the case.
If this mixed breed takes after their Poodle parent…
Then some Beardoodles might be more alert.
Or they’ll be wary of strangers.
And that means they’d do well as watchdogs.
Not to mention…
Both parents of this breed might bark… a lot.
So when someone’s at your door, they’d let you know.
5 cons of owning a Bearded Collie Poodle mix
#1: Sensitive
As I mentioned in the pros…
This hybrid can be a great therapy dog.
But that might have its own con.
And I’m talking about their sensitivity.
With this, you could say this Fido has a soft heart.
And that means they can easily feel:
- Lonely.
- Anxious.
- Stressed.
- Depressed.
So if you’re not careful…
A Beardoodle might get hurt by your actions.
Even if it was never your intention to.
Now, what would happen if Fido feels stressed?
A study explains:
Stress can lead to bloat in Beardoodles
Especially since Poodles tend to have sensitive tummies.
And vets state bloat could cause issues in Fido, like:
- Panting.
- Drooling.
- Tummy ache.
- Restlessness.
- Enlarged belly.
- Hardened stomach.
Warning: Bloat can be fatal in dogs. So if you notice these signs in your pooch, take them to the clinic ASAP.
That aside…
Beardoodles are also prone to separation anxiety
And this comes from their Poodle parent’s side.
That’s because these furry pals tend to get lonely.
With this, they might not fit an independent lifestyle.
So if you’re always away from home or busy with work…
A Beardoodle might not be the best choice for you.
Read next: Why Does My Dog All Of A Sudden Have (Separation) Anxiety?
#2: Prone to unwanted habits
Remember what I mentioned in pro #7?
Yes, Beardoodles are energetic Fidos.
But that also means this pooch can easily get bored.
And if they have nothing fun to do…
Vets say that could lead to destructive behavior.
And here’s what it looks like:
- Lots of licking.
- Heavy breathing.
- Digging everywhere.
- Chewing on furniture.
- Escaping or running away.
Aside from this…
Some Beardoodles could also have a stubborn side.
And this might happen if they’re always bored.
Tip: To help your pooch, you should buy them interactive toys.
Or you could also spend more time playing with them.
Otherwise, you’d risk coming home to a huge mess made by Fido.
Reading tip: 9 Reasons Why Your Dog Is Suddenly Being Destructive + Tips
#3: High maintenance
As you can tell from this hybrid’s fur…
They have thick, long hair.
And from that alone…
You could imagine how hard it can be to groom them.
Not to mention…
Beardies are also prone to matting
And they tend to catch dirt on their fur.
With this, a Beardoodle should bathe at least once every 3 to 8 weeks.
Oh, don’t even bring up the grooming fees.
Taking this hybrid to the puppy salon could cost a lot.
So why not learn to groom them yourself?
Watch this video for some ideas:
#4: Moderate exercise needs
As you’ve read earlier, Beardoodles are active Fidos.
And if they don’t move around enough…
They could end up bored.
Or worse, this mixed pooch might get sick.
So, how much exercise does this hybrid need?
The PDSA says:
Bearded Collies need at least 1-2 hours of exercise per day
And Poodles only need around 30 to 60 minutes of activity.
But as a crossed breed…
Beardoodles should get the same amount of exercise too.
So if you’re not a very active person…
Or you’re too busy to help them work out, this Fido’s not suited for you.
#5: Inherit health problems
Though I said Beardoodles have a long life…
It doesn’t mean they’re always healthy.
Like many hybrids…
This Fido could also inherit some health issues.
To be specific, here are some examples:
- Bloat.
- Epilepsy.
- Collie eye.
- Cataracts.
- Hip dysplasia.
- Addison’s disease.
Warning: Some of these concerns can be fatal to dogs. For your pup’s health, visit the vet regularly.
People also ask:
Are Bearded Collies aggressive?
Bearded Collies aren’t aggressive. In fact, they’re the opposite.
These herding dogs are more sensitive and calm.
They’re the type to observe before taking action.
And once they bond with a certain hooman…
Beardies can be very affectionate with them.
How big do Beardoddles get?
Most Beardoodles can grow as tall as 15 to 22 inches (38 to 55 cm). But if their parent is a giant Poodle, the pup might be even bigger.
To be specific…
A giant Beardoodle could grow up to 17 to 23 inches tall (45 to 60 cm).