BEARDED COLLIE. With an aura of strength and agility, the Bearded Collie was bred for centuries as a companion and servant of man. "Collie" is the generic Scottish word for dogs that herd sheep, and the Beardie’s long, lean body and agile movement make him well-suited to that task. The breed still herds today, but they are also popular in the conformation, obedience and agility rings.