General Appearance:
* Size: Medium-sized, with males typically standing 21.5-22.5 inches tall and females 19.5-20.5 inches.
* Build: Sturdy, athletic, and well-proportioned.
* Coat: This is the most striking feature! It's double-layered, with a dense, water-resistant outer coat and a soft, woolly undercoat. The coat is long and flowing, giving them a "shaggy" or "sheepdog" look. It can be any color except white, but common colors include blue merle, black, and tri-color (black, white, and tan).
* Head: The head is long and narrow, with a slightly rounded skull. They have a distinctive "beard" of long, flowing hair around their muzzle, hence the name.
* Ears: Small, semi-erect, and pointed ears.
* Tail: Long and plumed, carried low.
Here are some more details about their distinct features:
* "Bearded" Face: The long, flowing hair around the muzzle gives them a whimsical, almost comical, expression.
* Long, Flowing Coat: Their coat can be a real showstopper, especially when it's flowing in the wind. It requires regular brushing and grooming to prevent matting.
* Expressive Eyes: Their eyes are almond-shaped and can be brown, blue, or amber. They have a keen, intelligent expression.
Overall, Bearded Collies have a charming, friendly, and playful appearance. They're often described as looking like a "gentle giant" or a "fluffy cloud."