Beardie Dog Breeds: The Ultimate Guide to Bearded Dog Breeds
Discover the best beardie dog breeds with bearded faces. Compare temperament, grooming needs, size, and costs to find your perfect bearded companion.
What Makes a "Beardie" Dog Breed?
If you've ever scrolled through dog photos and stopped at a scruffy, wise-looking face framed by a magnificent beard, you're not alone. "Beardie" dog breeds — dogs with prominent facial hair, whiskers, and beards — have captivated owners for centuries. Originally, these beards served functional purposes: protecting the muzzle from harsh weather, debris during hunting, and even bites from prey animals. Today, they're as much a personality statement as a practical feature.
But not all bearded breeds are created equal. Some require hours of grooming each week, while others are surprisingly low-maintenance. Some thrive in apartments, and others need acreage to roam. This guide cuts through the noise to help you find the right beardie breed for your lifestyle.
To qualify for this list, each breed must meet all four criteria:
- Prominent facial beard: The breed standard (per AKC or FCI) must describe distinctive facial hair, whiskers, or a beard as a defining characteristic.
- Recognized breed status: Must be recognized by at least one major kennel club (AKC, UKC, FCI, or KC).
- Available in the US market: Breeders or rescue networks must exist within the United States.
- Distinctive from similar breeds: Each entry offers a unique combination of size, temperament, or care requirements — no redundant entries.
10 Best Beardie Dog Breeds Ranked
We've organized these breeds from smallest to largest so you can quickly find options that fit your living situation. Each entry includes why this breed earned its spot on the list.
1. Brussels Griffon
Size Class: Toy (8–10 lb / 3.5–4.5 kg, 7–10 inches tall)
Key Beardie Trait: A pronounced, almost human-like beard and mustache that frames an expressive, monkey-like face.
Profile: The Brussels Griffon packs enormous personality into a tiny frame. Their beard is soft and wiry, requiring hand-stripping every 6–8 weeks to maintain texture. They bond intensely with one person and can be wary of strangers — early socialization from 8–16 weeks is critical.
Why It Made the List: One of the most dramatically bearded small breeds available, the Griffon's facial hair is central to its breed standard and gives it an unmistakable appearance that no other toy breed replicates.
2. Miniature Schnauzer
Size Class: Small (11–20 lb / 5–9 kg, 12–14 inches tall)
Key Beardie Trait: The iconic long, flowing beard that cascades from the chin — arguably the most recognizable canine beard in the world.
Profile: Miniature Schnauzers are alert, trainable, and surprisingly athletic for their size. Their beard requires daily combing to prevent matting and monthly trimming. They're prone to pancreatitis, so a low-fat diet (under 15% fat on a dry-matter basis) is recommended. Expect to spend $60–$90 per grooming session every 6–8 weeks.
Why It Made the List: The Miniature Schnauzer is the gold standard of bearded breeds. If someone says "bearded dog," this is what most people picture. Their intelligence (ranked 12th in Stanley Coren's working intelligence rankings) makes them highly trainable using positive reinforcement methods.
3. Scottish Terrier
Size Class: Small (18–22 lb / 8–10 kg, 10 inches tall)
Key Beardie Trait: A full, thick beard that blends seamlessly into the breed's characteristic long eyebrows and skirt coat.
Profile: Scotties are dignified, independent thinkers with a strong prey drive. Their beard collects food and water, requiring a post-meal wipe-down. They're prone to Scottie cramp (a hereditary neuromuscular condition) and transitional cell carcinoma — annual veterinary screenings are essential. Purchase price from a responsible breeder ranges from $1,800–$3,500.
Why It Made the List: The Scottish Terrier's silhouette — low to the ground with a prominent beard and erect ears — is instantly recognizable. Their beard is integral to their working heritage as vermin hunters in the Scottish Highlands.
4. Affenpinscher
Size Class: Toy/Small (7–13 lb / 3–6 kg, 9–12 inches tall)
Key Beardie Trait: A wiry, tousled beard and mustache that contribute to their "monkey-like" expression (the breed name literally translates to "monkey terrier" in German).
Profile: Affenpinschers are confident, curious, and sometimes stubborn. Their facial hair is lower maintenance than many bearded breeds — weekly brushing and hand-stripping 2–3 times per year is sufficient. They can be territorial with other dogs and do best as the only pet in the household.
Why It Made the List: Rare in the US (fewer than 300 AKC registrations annually), the Affenpinscher offers a distinctive bearded look with relatively manageable grooming compared to larger wire-coated breeds.
5. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Size Class: Medium (35–45 lb / 16–20 kg, 17–19 inches tall)
Key Beardie Trait: A soft, silky beard that falls in loose waves, distinct from the wiry beards of most terriers.
Profile: Known as the "Wheaten," this Irish breed is notably friendlier and less aggressive than many terriers. Their beard is prone to staining from saliva and food — many owners use a snood (a fabric hood) during meals. Health concerns include protein-losing nephropathy (PLN) and Addison's disease. Budget $800–$1,500 for a puppy from health-tested parents.
Why It Made the List: The Wheaten offers a unique texture variation — a soft, flowing beard rather than the wiry, coarse facial hair typical of terrier breeds. Their temperament is also notably more relaxed, making them suitable for first-time dog owners.
6. Standard Schnauzer
Size Class: Medium (30–50 lb / 14–23 kg, 17–20 inches tall)
Key Beardie Trait: A robust, thick beard that's proportionally larger and more substantial than the Miniature Schnauzer's.
Profile: The original Schnauzer breed, Standards are versatile working dogs with higher energy than their miniature counterparts. They need 60–90 minutes of daily exercise and mental stimulation. Their beard requires the same maintenance routine as Minis but on a larger scale. They excel in obedience, agility, and nose work.
Why It Made the List: For owners who want the classic Schnauzer beard but need a sturdier, more athletic dog, the Standard fills a gap between the Miniature and Giant varieties. They're less common in the US, which means fewer breed-specific rescue options but also less overbreeding.
7. Airedale Terrier
Size Class: Large (50–70 lb / 23–32 kg, 22–24 inches tall)
Key Beardie Trait: A wiry, substantial beard that frames a powerful, rectangular muzzle — the "King of Terriers" look.
Profile: Airedales are the largest terrier breed and require an experienced owner who can provide firm, consistent training using positive reinforcement. Their beard needs stripping or clipping every 6–8 weeks. They're highly intelligent but can be willful — they excel in advanced obedience and working trials. Health screenings should include hip evaluations and cardiac exams per the AKC breed standard.
Why It Made the List: The Airedale combines a dramatic bearded appearance with genuine working ability. They served as messenger dogs in WWI and remain capable protection and sport dogs today.
8. Giant Schnauzer
Size Class: Large (55–85 lb / 25–39 kg, 23.5–27.5 inches tall)
Key Beardie Trait: A commanding, thick beard on a large, powerful head — the most imposing bearded breed on this list.
Profile: Giant Schnauzers are serious working dogs that need a job. They're not suitable for casual owners — they require 90+ minutes of vigorous daily exercise and ongoing training. Their beard requires professional grooming every 4–6 weeks ($80–$120 per session). They're prone to bloat (GDV) — discuss prophylactic gastropexy with your veterinarian, especially if your dog is deep-chested.
Why It Made the List: For experienced owners seeking a large, protective bearded breed, the Giant Schnauzer is unmatched. Their intelligence and drive make them exceptional partners for sport dog enthusiasts.
9. Bearded Collie
Size Class: Large (45–55 lb / 20–25 kg, 20–22 inches tall)
Key Beardie Trait: A long, shaggy beard that's part of a full-body coat so abundant it often obscures the dog's entire face.
Profile: The Bearded Collie (or "Beardie" — the origin of the term) is a herding breed with a bouncy, optimistic temperament. Their coat requires 30–45 minutes of brushing daily to prevent painful matting. Many pet owners opt for a shorter "puppy clip" to reduce maintenance. They're prone to hip dysplasia and hypoadrenocorticism (Addison's disease). Purchase price: $1,500–$2,500 from a responsible breeder.
Why It Made the List: The Bearded Collie is literally the namesake of the "beardie" term in dog circles. Their entire identity revolves around their spectacular coat and facial hair.
10. Bouvier des Flandres
Size Class: Large (70–110 lb / 32–50 kg, 23.5–27.5 inches tall)
Key Beardie Trait: A dramatic, full-face beard and mustache that, combined with their rough coat, gives them a rugged, almost mythical appearance.
Profile: The Bouvier is a powerful herding breed from Belgium that requires an experienced handler. Their beard collects debris, food, and moisture — daily cleaning is non-negotiable. They need 60–90 minutes of exercise and thrive with structured training. Health concerns include subaortic stenosis and hip dysplasia. Expect to pay $2,000–$3,500 for a well-bred puppy.
Why It Made the List: The Bouvier's beard is arguably the most dramatic on this list — it covers the entire lower face and contributes to a silhouette that's impossible to mistake for any other breed.
Breed Comparison: How Do These Beardie Breeds Stack Up?
| Breed | Weight (lb/kg) | Grooming (hrs/week) | Exercise (min/day) | Apartment OK? | Puppy Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brussels Griffon | 8–10 / 3.5–4.5 | 1–2 | 30 | ✅ Yes | $2,000–$3,500 |
| Miniature Schnauzer | 11–20 / 5–9 | 2–3 | 45–60 | ✅ Yes | $1,500–$3,000 |
| Scottish Terrier | 18–22 / 8–10 | 2–3 | 30–45 | ✅ Yes | $1,800–$3,500 |
| Affenpinscher | 7–13 / 3–6 | 1–2 | 30 | ✅ Yes | $2,500–$4,000 |
| Soft Coated Wheaten | 35–45 / 16–20 | 3–4 | 45–60 | ⚠️ Possible | $800–$1,500 |
| Standard Schnauzer | 30–50 / 14–23 | 2–3 | 60–90 | ❌ No | $1,500–$2,500 |
| Airedale Terrier | 50–70 / 23–32 | 3–4 | 60–90 | ❌ No | $1,200–$2,500 |
| Giant Schnauzer | 55–85 / 25–39 | 3–5 | 90+ | ❌ No | $2,000–$3,500 |
| Bearded Collie | 45–55 / 20–25 | 4–5 | 60–90 | ❌ No | $1,500–$2,500 |
| Bouvier des Flandres | 70–110 / 32–50 | 4–6 | 60–90 | ❌ No | $2,000–$3,500 |
How to Choose: A Decision Framework
Choosing between these breeds comes down to three factors: your living space, your time commitment, and your experience level. Use this framework to narrow your options:
- Apartment or small home with no yard → Choose from: Brussels Griffon, Miniature Schnauzer, Scottish Terrier, or Affenpinscher. These breeds adapt well to smaller spaces with regular walks.
- House with a fenced yard → All breeds on this list are viable. Proceed to Step 2.
- Rural property or acreage → Consider Bearded Collie, Airedale Terrier, or Bouvier des Flandres — these breeds thrive with space to patrol and explore.
- Under 2 hours per week → Brussels Griffon or Affenpinscher. Both have lower-maintenance beards relative to other breeds on this list.
- 2–4 hours per week → Miniature Schnauzer, Scottish Terrier, Standard Schnauzer, or Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier.
- 4+ hours per week (or budget for professional grooming) → Bearded Collie, Bouvier des Flandres, Giant Schnauzer, or Airedale Terrier.
- First-time owner → Miniature Schnauzer or Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier. Both are trainable, adaptable, and forgiving of beginner mistakes.
- Some experience → Scottish Terrier, Standard Schnauzer, or Bearded Collie. These breeds benefit from owners who understand canine body language and consistent training.
- Experienced handler → Giant Schnauzer, Airedale Terrier, or Bouvier des Flandres. These powerful, intelligent breeds need confident leadership and structured training programs.
Honorable Mentions & Breeds to Consider Carefully
Honorable Mentions
- Wire Fox Terrier: A classic bearded breed with a bold personality, but their high prey drive and tendency to dig make them challenging for many households.
- Kerry Blue Terrier: Their soft, wavy coat includes facial hair, though it's less dramatically "bearded" than breeds on the main list. They require experienced handlers due to dog-aggression tendencies.
- Schnoodle (Schnauzer-Poodle mix): While not a recognized breed, F1 and F1B Schnoodles often inherit the Schnauzer beard with reduced shedding. Temperament is less predictable than purebreds.
Breeds to Approach with Caution
- Giant Schnauzer (for first-time owners): Without proper socialization and training, Giant Schnauzers can develop reactivity and resource guarding behaviors. They're not a breed you can "figure out as you go."
- Bouvier des Flandres (for time-poor owners): Their coat and beard demand serious commitment. Neglected grooming leads to painful matting, skin infections, and costly veterinary bills.
- Bearded Collie (for apartment dwellers): Their herding instinct manifests as nipping, circling, and high energy — behaviors that are difficult to manage without outdoor space.
Beardie Dog Breed FAQ
Why are some dog breeds bearded?
Beards in dog breeds evolved for functional reasons. Terriers like the Schnauzer and Scottish Terrier were bred to hunt vermin in burrows — the beard protected their muzzle from bites, scratches, and debris. Herding breeds like the Bearded Collie developed full coats (including facial hair) as insulation against harsh Scottish weather. In modern dogs, the beard is maintained as a breed standard characteristic, though it no longer serves its original purpose for most pet dogs.
Do bearded dogs require special grooming?
Yes. Bearded breeds need regular combing (at minimum 2–3 times per week) to prevent matting at the base of the facial hair. Beards also trap food particles, moisture, and bacteria, which can lead to skin infections or staining if not cleaned daily. Many owners use a damp cloth or dog-safe wipe after each meal. Professional grooming costs for bearded breeds range from $50–$120 per session depending on breed size and coat complexity.
Are bearded breeds hypoallergenic?
Several bearded breeds — particularly Schnauzers (Miniature, Standard, and Giant) and the Brussels Griffon — are often described as "hypoallergenic" because they shed minimally. However, no dog is truly hypoallergenic. Allergens come from dander (dead skin cells) and saliva, not just hair. If you have allergies, spend at least 2 hours with the breed before committing. According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, allergic reactions vary significantly by individual.
What is the original "Beardie" breed?
The term "Beardie" is most commonly associated with the Bearded Collie, a Scottish herding breed. However, in casual use, "beardie" has become an umbrella term for any dog with a prominent facial beard. The Bearded Collie remains the breed most directly connected to the nickname, and their enthusiasts often use "Beardie" as an affectionate shorthand.
How much does it cost to own a bearded breed annually?
Beyond the initial purchase price, budget for annual grooming ($600–$1,800 depending on breed and frequency), high-quality food ($400–$900/year), routine veterinary care ($500–$800/year), and pet insurance ($400–$900/year for comprehensive coverage). Large bearded breeds like the Bouvier des Flandres or Giant Schnauzer will cost more in food, medication (dosed by weight), and grooming. First-year total costs typically range from $3,500–$7,000 depending on breed and location.
Can I keep a bearded breed's beard short?
Yes, though this disqualifies the dog from conformation shows. Many pet owners opt for a shorter "pet clip" that reduces grooming time significantly. A Schnauzer with a pet clip may only need brushing 1–2 times per week instead of daily. Discuss clip options with a professional groomer — they can show you styles that balance aesthetics with practicality.
Always consult your veterinarian before making decisions about breed-specific health concerns, diet, or preventive care. If you suspect your dog has ingested a toxic substance, contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 (24/7, consultation fee applies).
Beth Carrasco
All our authors care for dogs every day — read more of their work on the authors page.
