Is the Bearded Collie Better than the Dutch Shepherd as a Pet? Our Answer.

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Bearded Collie Versus Dutch Shepherd: Introduction

Are you thinking of getting a new pet dog, and you have narrowed down your choices to the Bearded Collie and the Dutch Shepherd? Well, you have come to the right place. Because in this article, we will provide you with a detailed comparison of these two dog breeds to help you decide which of the Bearded Collie and the Dutch Shepherd better suits you.

We will provide you a detailed discussion and comparison of dog attributes such as intelligence, price, general health, friendliness, etc, for both the Bearded Collie and the Dutch Shepherd.

Furthermore, we will let you know which one of the Bearded Collie and the Dutch Shepherd is better suited for new dog owners, for owners with kids, for owners that live in apartments, for owners with dog allergies, etc.

Importantly, we did some analysis and calculation and we obtained a number that we call the Better-Pet Score™ for both the Bearded Collie and for the Dutch Shepherd. The dog breed with the higher Better-Pet score is the `better` pet. We hope that these Better-Pet Scores will provide you with more insight into deciding which pet to get between the Bearded Collie and the Dutch Shepherd.

Our only goal here is to help you make a well-thought-out decision on your next long-term companion, be it the Bearded Collie or the Dutch Shepherd.

Bearded Collie versus Dutch Shepherd: Overview

Both the Bearded Collie and the Dutch Shepherd are similar in size. The Bearded Collie and the Dutch Shepherd are both medium-sized dogs.

Furthermore, both the Bearded Collie and the Dutch Shepherd are Herding Dogs. This means both the Bearded Collie and the Dutch Shepherd were bred for moving livestock, including sheep, cattle, and even reindeer. Herding dogs work closely with their human shepherds, and their natural intelligence and responsiveness make them highly trainable. They have high levels of energy, which needs to be channeled properly to prevent destructive behavior. Herding breeds are protective of their people and property and make excellent watchdogs. Their intelligence, agility, and activity level make them well suited to dog sports.

Bearded Collie versus Dutch Shepherd: Comparison Table

The table below compares the Bearded Collie to the Dutch Shepherd based on different important factors such as Price, Health, Kid-friendliness, etc.

When a dog breed scores higher for a factor than the other dog breed, the box of the breed that scores higher is shaded green and the box of the breed that scores lower is shaded red. When there is no difference between the breeds for a particular factor then the box is shaded gray for both pets. Also, when the factor is not important in picking a pet, or when the factor cannot be compared between two pets, the box for the factor is shaded gray for both pets

Most of the factors in the table for each dog breed are ranked on a scale of 1 to 5. “1” means “worst”, and “5” means “best”.

However, some factors such as “Price”, “Average Lifespan”, etc. cannot be on a scale of 1 to 5, so they are not on a scale of 1 to 5 in the comparison table.

Later in this article, we will further explain each factor as it applies to the Bearded Collie and the Dutch Shepherd

Factor Bearded Collie Dutch Shepherd
Does NOT Drool 5/5 4/5
Life Span 12 to 14 years 12 to 15 years
Tolerates Being Alone 2/5 2/5
Easy To Groom 2/5 3/5
Height 20 to 22 inches tall at the shoulder 21 to 25 inches
Adapts Well To Apartment Living 3/5 3/5
Tolerates Hot Weather 3/5 4/5
General Health 3/5 4/5
Does NOT chew on things 3/5 4/5
Low Prey Drive 3/5 3/5
Does NOT Bark or Howl 3/5 4/5
Good For Novice Owners 4/5 3/5
Easygoing 2/5 3/5
Tolerates Cold Weather 4/5 4/5
Kid-Friendly 4/5 4/5
Friendly Toward Strangers 4/5 2/5
Does NOT Shed 2/5 2/5
Potential NOT to Gain Weight 2/5 4/5
Intelligence 4/5 4/5
NOT Rambunctious 2/5 2/5
Calmness/ Low Vigor 2/5 3/5
Minimal Exercise Needs 2/5 2/5
Weight 45 to 55 pounds 50 to 70 pounds
Affectionate With Family 5/5 4/5
Dog Friendly 5/5 4/5
Easy To Train 5/5 5/5
Tendency NOT to Wander 1/5 4/5
Potential For Playfulness 5/5 4/5
Average Lifespan 13.0 years 13.5 years
Average Price $980 $1530
Price Range $500 – $975 $900 – $1500
Temperament Score 56.9 percent 96.2 percent
Common Health Problems and Recommended Health Tests
  • Autoimmune thyroiditis
  • Elbow Dysplasia
  • Eye examination each year, results registered with the OFA.
  • Hip Dysplasia
    		•  No Data

    Next, we added the scores of the factors that can be added together for the Bearded Collie in the table (that is, `Ease of Grooming` score + `General Health` score + `Calmness` score + …etc) and we compared it to the corresponding total score for the Dutch Shepherd. We call these total scores the Better-Pet Scores, as we mentioned earlier. We called this score the Better-Pet score because the better dog breed will have a higher score. This is because the pet will the higher score will have minimal needs and be easier to have as a pet.

    The Better-Pet score for the Bearded Collie is 80 out of 125 while the Better-Pet score for the Dutch Shepherd is 85 out of 125.

    Based on their Better-Pet scores, the Dutch Shepherd is a better pet than the Bearded Collie. So, you should get the Dutch Shepherd!

    Although we have done our best to analyze these two dog breeds in a very unbiased way, however, we will like to let you know that there are some dog attributes that cannot be assigned a number for comparison. We cannot put a number on how cute a dog breed is, for example. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

    Also, the dog breed that best suits you will depend on your peculiar lifestyle, your taste, and your priorities, which we do not know. So, for you to decide on which breed is right for you, read through the rest of the article to further understand both the Bearded Collie and the Dutch Shepherd so that you can make your own well-informed decision on which pet to get.

    The Most Remarkable Differences Between the Bearded Collie and the Dutch Shepherd

    Below is a list of where the Bearded Collie and the Dutch Shepherd are most different:

    • Bearded Collies have a high tendency to wander. They are easily distracted by other animals or objects. However, Dutch Shepherds do not have the potential to wander after things that capture their attention. They tend to stay around where you leave them.

    The Similarities Between the Bearded Collie and the Dutch Shepherd

    The Bearded Collie and the Dutch Shepherd are very similar in certain aspects. Below is the list of where the Bearded Collie and the Dutch Shepherd are most similar:

    • Both the Bearded Collie and the Dutch Shepherd do not have the tendency to drool.
    • Both the Bearded Collie and the Dutch Shepherd do not like to be left alone.
    • Both the Bearded Collie and the Dutch Shepherd require a lot of grooming and are not very easy to groom.
    • Both the Bearded Collie and the Dutch Shepherd are good for new dog owners.
    • Both the Bearded Collie and the Dutch Shepherd are easily disturbed by noise in their environments. They are sensitive to human tone. They will understand the tone of your voice when you try to correct their behaviors with a firm tone.
    • Both the Bearded Collie and the Dutch Shepherd can tolerate cold weather.
    • Both the Bearded Collie and the Dutch Shepherd get along well with kids. They are kid-friendly.
    • Both the Bearded Collie and the Dutch Shepherd shed. They are not recommended for people with dog allergies.
    • Both the Bearded Collie and the Dutch Shepherd are highly intelligent.
    • Both the Bearded Collie and the Dutch Shepherd have very high energy levels. They need a lot of exercise time to release their high energy.
    • Both the Bearded Collie and the Dutch Shepherd do things with high intensity. They can be very forceful.
    • Both the Bearded Collie and the Dutch Shepherd require a lot of exercise. They are good for owners who like to exercise.
    • Both the Bearded Collie and the Dutch Shepherd are great family dogs. They are very affectionate with family.
    • Both the Bearded Collie and the Dutch Shepherd get along well with other dogs.
    • Both the Bearded Collie and the Dutch Shepherd are very easy to train.
    • Both the Bearded Collie and the Dutch Shepherd are very playful.

    Size Comparison of Bearded Collie versus Dutch Shepherd

    Now, let us discuss the difference in size between the Bearded Collie and the Dutch Shepherd.

    Bearded Collies weigh 45 to 55 pounds when fully grown. Bearded Collies are 20 to 22 inches tall at the shoulder when fully grown.

    On the other hand, Dutch Shepherds weigh 50 to 70 pounds when fully grown. Dutch Shepherds are 21 to 25 inches when fully grown.

    Lifespan of Bearded Collie versus Dutch Shepherd

    The lifespan of Bearded Collies is between 12 to 14 years. The average lifespan of Bearded Collies is 13.0 years.

    The lifespan of Dutch Shepherds is between 12 to 15 years. The average lifespan of Dutch Shepherds is 13.5 years.

    Dutch Shepherds live longer than Bearded Collies.

    Temperament of the Dutch Shepherd Versus the Bearded Collie

    The Dutch Shepherd has a better temperament than the Bearded Collie.

    This is because the temperament score for the Dutch Shepherd is 96.2 percent while the temperament score for the Bearded Collie is 56.9 percent, according to the American Temperament Test Society (ATTS).

    The American Temperament Test Society (ATTS) is a non-profit organization whose mission is to provide fair and objective evaluations of the temperaments of dog breeds.

    Dog breeds with low temperament scores tend to show unprovoked aggression, they easily panic without quickly recovering from the panic, and they tend to avoid people. However, dog breeds with high temperament scores are not aggressive and are not shy. Also, these dogs are generally friendly and are protective of their owners.

    The average temperament score across all dog breeds (over 250 breeds) is 83.7 percent.

    With its temperament score of 56.9 percent, the Bearded Collie has a below-average temperament compared to other dog breeds.

    With its temperament score of 96.2 percent, the Dutch Shepherd has an above-average temperament compared to other dog breeds.

    The ATTS obtained the temperament scores of the Bearded Collie and the Dutch Shepherd by measuring the temperaments of 51 Bearded Collies and 26 Dutch Shepherds.

    Price of Bearded Collie versus Price of Dutch Shepherd

    The average price of the Bearded Collie puppy is $980. The price of the Bearded Collie typically ranges from $500 – $975. We obtained this price information by reviewing the prices of 16 Bearded Collie puppies listed for sale from various sources.

    The average price of the Dutch Shepherd puppy is $1530. The price of the Dutch Shepherd typically ranges from $900 – $1500. We obtained this price information by collecting and reviewing the prices of 45 Dutch Shepherd puppies listed for sale from various sources.

    The Dutch Shepherd is more expensive than the Bearded Collie.

    The charts below show the price distribution for the Bearded Collie and Dutch Shepherd. For different price points, the charts show how many Bearded Collie puppies or how many Dutch Shepherd puppies are listed for sale at those price points.

    A breakdown of the prices of Bearded Collies. The typical price range is shaded Green.

    A breakdown of the prices of Bearded Collies. The typical price range is shaded Green.

    A breakdown of the prices of Dutch Shepherds

    A breakdown of the prices of Dutch Shepherds

    Note that a lot of factors determine how much you can expect to pay for the Bearded Collie puppy or the Dutch Shepherd puppy. This includes if health screening tests have been performed on the puppy, if the puppy is from a famous pedigree, the US State where the puppy is bred, etc.

    Nevertheless, when looking to buy a puppy, look at buying a puppy only from well-established breeders that breed puppies primarily for the love of dogs, and secondarily for profit. Do not buy a puppy from a puppy mill. Puppy mills mass-produce puppies in bad living conditions for maximum profit.

    You may also consider adopting a dog instead of buying a dog.

    Tolerates Being Alone: Bearded Collie versus Dutch Shepherd

    Bearded Collies do not like to be left alone.

    Dutch Shepherds do not like to be left alone.

    Do Bearded Collies shed more than Dutch Shepherds?

    Bearded Collies shed. They are not recommended for people with dog allergies.

    Dutch Shepherds shed. They are not recommended for people with dog allergies.

    Which one drools more, the Bearded Collie or the Dutch Shepherd

    Bearded Collies do have a very low tendency to drool.

    Dutch Shepherds do have a very low tendency to drool.

    Which is Easier to Groom, the Bearded Collie or the Dutch Shepherd?

    Bearded Collies require a lot of grooming and they are not very easy to groom.

    Dutch Shepherds are moderately easy to groom.

    Does the Bearded Collie Have a Higher Prey Drive than the Dutch Shepherd?

    Bearded Collies have a moderate prey drive. They can sometimes chase after smaller animals and pets.

    Dutch Shepherds have a moderate prey drive. They can sometimes chase after smaller animals and pets.

    Do Bearded Collies Bark and Howl? What about Dutch Shepherds?

    Bearded Collies bark and howl, but not very much.

    Dutch Shepherds are not very vocal. They do not tend to bark and howl.

    Can Bearded Collies Tolerate Cold Weather? And can Dutch Shepherds Tolerate Cold Weather?

    Bearded Collies can very well tolerate cold weather.

    Dutch Shepherds can very well tolerate cold weather.

    Wanderlust Potential: Bearded Collie vs. Dutch Shepherd

    Bearded Collies have a high tendency to wander. They are easily distracted by other animals or objects.

    Dutch Shepherds do not have the potential to wander after things that capture their attention. They tend to stay around where you leave them.

    Can Bearded Collies Tolerate Hot Weather? Can Dutch Shepherds Tolerate Hot Weather?

    Bearded Collies can tolerate hot weather as long as the weather is not too hot.

    Dutch Shepherds can tolerate hot weather.

    Which Dog Breed is more Dog-Friendly, the Bearded Collie or the Dutch Shepherd?

    Bearded Collies get along very well with other dogs.

    Dutch Shepherds get along very well with other dogs.

    Are Bearded Collies good family dogs? What about Dutch Shepherds?

    Bearded Collies are great family dogs. They are very affectionate with family.

    Dutch Shepherds are great family dogs. They are very affectionate with family.

    How Kid-friendly are Bearded Collies and Dutch Shepherds?

    Bearded Collies get along well with kids. They are kid-friendly.

    Dutch Shepherds get along well with kids. They are kid-friendly.

    Is the Bearded Collie Easier to Train than the Dutch Shepherd?

    Bearded Collies are very easy to train.

    Dutch Shepherds are very easy to train.

    Is the Bearded Collie Better for Apartment Owners than the Dutch Shepherd?

    Bearded Collies adapt moderately well to apartment living.

    Dutch Shepherds adapt moderately well to apartment living.

    Which is Better for New Dog Owners, the Bearded Collie or the Dutch Shepherd?

    Bearded Collies are very good for new dog owners.

    Dutch Shepherds are OK for new dog owners.

    Conclusion: Bearded Collie versus Dutch Shepherd. Which One is a Better Pet?

    In summary, there is nothing like a better dog breed or a worse dog breed. The important question to ask is which dog breed better matches your interests and lifestyle. We hope our discussion above will help you in deciding which dog breed between the Bearded Collie and the Dutch Shepherd better suits you and your family.