01/Overview
The Collie is renowned for its predictable and easy-going nature, displaying both intelligence and friendliness in its demeanor. Originating from Scotland, the breed historically served as a herding dog and guardian, showcasing its exceptional agility, stamina, and trainability. During the 20th century, the breed achieved remarkable notoriety through a series of beloved books and films as well as a long-running television series. Today, the breed’s graceful appearance, combined with its keen intellect, makes it a preferred choice for both suburban families and active dog enthusiasts. With the breed's abundant coat and striking appearance, the Collies remains well-suited for life in both a pastoral setting and in the contemporary home.
Highlights
02/History
The Collie has a rich history, with origins that trace back to the highlands of Scotland and Northern England. The breed was used primarily as a herding dog, tasked with guarding flocks of sheep and herds of cattle. Its name is believed to be derived from the Scottish dialect word "colley," referring to sheep with black faces and legs. The dogs were invaluable to shepherds and farmers, showcasing an innate herding instinct and a strong work ethic.
Over time, the breed's intelligence and graceful appearance garnered attention beyond the fields. The breed’s popularity soared in the 19th century, particularly after Queen Victoria took a keen interest in the breed during a visit to Scotland. Her admiration led to increased demand, and breeders began refining the Collie for exhibition at dog shows as well as for companionship.
The Collie was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1885, marking a significant milestone in the breed’s history. The breed has since remained a beloved choice for many families and dog enthusiasts on both sides of the Atlantic, well-known for its loyalty, intelligence, and striking appearance.
In addition to the breed's herding abilities, Collies have proven themselves in a variety of ways, showcasing both their versatility and their eagerness to work alongside their human partners. They have also made a mark in popular culture, most notably through the character of Lassie, a fictional Rough Collie who starred as the protagonist in many books, movies, and a popular television series. These highly acclaimed series further cemented the breed’s place in the hearts of people in America and around the world.
The Collie’s journey from The Highlands to homes and hearts worldwide highlights the breed's adaptability and enduring appeal. Today, it remains a living testament to the intelligence, grace, and unwavering loyalty of its ancestors, traits that have allowed the breed to be cherished by generations of devoted fans and followers.
03/Appearance
Adult male Collies typically stand between 24 and 26 inches tall at the withers, presenting a robust and well-proportioned physique. Mature females generally measure slightly less, with a height range from 22 to 24 inches.
In terms of weight, males commonly weigh within the range of 60 to 75 pounds. Females, on the other hand, tend to be somewhat lighter, often weighing between 50 and 65 pounds.
Skull: The head of the Collie is a well-blunted, lean wedge with an inclination towards lightness. The skull is rather flat and its width tapers gradually towards the muzzle. The skull and muzzle are of equal length and lie in two approximately parallel, straight planes. There is a slight but perceptible stop, which is the point where the skull and muzzle meet.
Expression: The Collie’s expression is one of the more notable characteristics of the breed. Due to the unique combination of skull and muzzle properties, the "look" of the breed is unmistakable and reflects its signature character. Expression is enhanced by the shape, size, and placement of the eyes, as well as the position and carriage of the ears.
Eyes: The forward-looking eyes are medium in size and almond-shaped, and are set obliquely in the skull. They are generally dark brown in color, but blue merle Collies may have one or two merle or “china” eyes, adding to their unique expression.
Ears: The distinctive ears of the Collie are relatively small and stand three-quarters erect. They are drawn well up when the dog is alert, and folded into the frill when in repose.
Muzzle: The muzzle is smooth and well-rounded, tapering from the ears to the end of the nose in a blunt, but not square, profile. Together with the skull, the muzzle resembles a well-blunt, lean wedge.
Nose: The color of the nose is black, regardless of the coat color, enhancing the head’s gradual tapering and refined appearance.
Bite: The Collie has a scissors bite, where the upper incisors closely overlap the lower incisors, which is set square within the jaws. Overshot or undershot bites are unacceptable.
The Collie presents a picture of balance and proportion, with a body that is slightly longer than it is tall. The breed’s substance is solid without appearing heavy, affording the ability to work efficiently as a herding dog. The Collie’s strong back and muscular quarters provide the necessary power for quick movement and endurance. The breed’s deep chest and well-sprung ribs ensure stamina and agility.
Texture: Except for the head and legs, the coat of the Collie is attractively profuse. There is an abundant mane and frill around the neck, and long and bushy hair over the hips. Considerable feathering is found on the backs of the front legs and on the back legs above the hocks, and the tail carries heavy feathering.
The Collie’s coat appears in two distinct coat varieties: Rough and Smooth. In general, the Rough Collie’s natural coat is said to “fit the dog.” Similarly, the Smooth Collie’s coat is harsh and dense but it lacks the length and distribution of its cousin.
The Rough Collie has a luxurious, abundant coat that stands away from the body, with a texture that's straight and harsh to the touch. The coat provides a rather grand appearance and provides insulation and protection from the elements. The undercoat is soft and dense, further adding to the coat's insulation and fullness.
The Smooth Collie, by contrast, has a shorter coat that retains the same strength, density, and texture. The coat of this variety lies closer to the body, showcasing a sleek, streamlined appearance while still offering both protection and warmth.
Regardless of the variety, the Collie’s coat is designed to shield the dog from harsh weather and rough terrain of the Scottish Highlands.
Standard Colors
04/Consider
The Collie, renowned for its elegance, intelligence, and herding prowess, holds a special place in the hearts of dog lovers everywhere. The decision to bring one of these impressive canines into the home entails understanding the breed's specific needs and characteristics.
Interaction With Family
The level of affection a breed typically shows towards family members and familiar individuals.
Good With Other Dogs
The innate friendliness of a dog towards other dogs can depend on its breed.
Good With Young Children
The degree to which a breed will typically be patient with young children.
Amount Of Shedding
How much hair a breed typically leaves behind on clothes, furniture and floors.
Frequency Of Grooming
How often a breed needs brushing, bathing or a professional trim to stay in condition.
Amount Of Drooling
How prone a breed is to drool — worth knowing before you keep a towel by the door.
Openness To Strangers
How openly a breed tends to greet new people, visitors and strangers.
Protective Nature
How likely a breed is to alert you to — and stand between you and — anything unfamiliar.
Playfulness Level
How enthusiastic a breed stays about games and play well past puppyhood.
Trainability Level
How readily a breed takes direction and works with you rather than around you.
Barking Level
How much a breed uses its voice, and how readily.
Energy Level
How much get-up-and-go a breed brings to an average day.
Health
The Collie is generally a hearty and resilient dog, known for its endurance and vitality. Despite the breed's robust nature, some individuals can be predisposed to certain health conditions. It is imperative to establish a partnership with a reputable Collie breeder and a trusted veterinarian to safeguard the health and welfare of a dog throughout its life. With a typical lifespan ranging from 12 to 14 years, the Collie can thrive when provided with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and annual veterinary exams. Proactive care can significantly contribute to a long and vital life.
The Collie is known for its predictable and easy-going nature, making the breed a popular choice among both experienced and novice dog owners. These dogs typically exhibit a gentle and patient demeanor along with a protective instinct, which makes them an ideal choice for households with children.
While Collies do well in families and tend to get along well with other dogs, it is crucial to ensure proper socialization from a young age. The breed is known for being sensitive, so these dogs respond best to positive reinforcement and gentle training methods. Their sensitivity also means they may not cope well with being left alone for extended periods, so they thrive best in environments where they are part of the family's activities.
Regarding interactions with strangers, Collies are generally friendly but can be reserved. Early introductions to new people, places, and situations can help to ensure a puppy grows up to become a well-rounded and confident adult.
In terms of trainability, Collies are intelligent and eager to please, which usually makes training a straightforward process. However, like any honest herding dog, they can occasionally display a streak of independence. Consistent, patient training is the key to encouraging a well-behaved companion or working partner.
Given the Collie's herding heritage, some dogs may show a tendency to herd small children and other pets. This natural impulse is something owners of the breed should be mindful of. Channeling this instinct through controlled activities and organized dog sports can provide a fun and effective outlet for managing a dog's desire to herd members of the family.
Exercise Expectations
On average, a Collie requires at least an hour of exercise per day, but these dogs can easily handle more if it's available to them. Sessions can be split into multiple daily walks and other activities. They enjoy a good free-run and have a high degree of playfulness, making them great companions for most outdoor adventures. Their herding instincts mean Collies thrive on activities that challenge them mentally as well as physically. Engaging in dog sports like Agility, Obedience, or Herding Trials can provide the necessary stimulation and are excellent outlets for their energy. Despite the breed's energy levels, Collies are adaptable and can adjust to their family’s lifestyle. However, they are not well-suited to a sedentary lifestyle and can become bored or destructive if not provided with adequate exercise. Regular exercise also helps in maintaining a Collie's healthy weight, which is particularly important for this breed as they can be prone to obesity. Alongside physical activity, mental stimulation is a must for this breed, as Collie's excel in environments where they are given tasks to do and problems to solve.
Collies are versatile and adaptable, capable of thriving in various living situations when their needs are adequately met. They develop a strong bond with their families and are happiest when included in daily activities.
Living in an apartment is possible with a Collie, although it does come with some challenges. This is a large and active breed, requiring ample space to move around comfortably. Therefore, apartment dwellers should ensure they can provide enough exercise and mental stimulation to compensate for the lack of space. Regular walks, play sessions, and engagement in activities that challenge the dog's intellect are crucial for a Collie living in a smaller space.
When it comes to weather, Collies are fairly adaptable. Their double coat provides insulation, making them well-suited to colder climates. However, it’s crucial to provide shade and plenty of fresh water during hotter periods, as the breed's thick coat can make these dogs prone to overheating. Regular grooming also plays a vital role in keeping them comfortable, regardless of the weather.
The Collie's abundant coat can trap heat, so it is essential to be mindful of signs of overheating. During hot summer months, it's vital to be sure the dog has a cool and shaded area to rest, along with access to fresh water. Proper grooming helps with maintaining the dog's comfort levels, and it manages the coat's inevitable shedding, but owners should always remain vigilant and avoid intense exercise during the hottest parts of the day.
05/Puppies
Raising a litter of Collie puppies is a joyful and rewarding experience, marked by moments of shared learning. Those little Lassies are known for their intelligence and eagerness to please, traits that make them responsive to training but also in need of guidance and socialization from a young age.
Caring for a Collie puppy requires a commitment to its overall well-being, encompassing the growing pup's physical, mental, and emotional needs. During the formative weeks and months, it’s crucial to provide a safe, nurturing environment that supports the puppy's growth and development.
Socialization is a critical aspect of puppy care. By exposing the new family member to a variety of people, places, and experiences in a positive manner, its temperament can be shaped in ways that support its overall development. Gentle handling and constructive interactions are needed at this time to lay the foundation for trusting relationships.
Collies are intelligent and learn quickly at any age and respond best to positive reinforcement and consistency. Training should start early, focusing on basic commands and housebreaking. Establishing routines and setting clear boundaries helps in creating a sense of security for the puppy.
Nutrition plays a vital role in the pup's development, and providing a balanced diet formulated for puppies is essential. Regular veterinary check-ups are also essential for monitoring growth and addressing any potential health concerns promptly.
Engaging the Collie puppy in age-appropriate play and exercise aids in burning off its abundant energy and contributes to its physical, mental, and emotional well-being. It’s important, however, to be mindful of those developing bones and joints, and avoid overly strenuous activities that can result in injuries.
06/Activities
Collies are highly intelligent, energetic, and agile dogs, making them excellent candidates for a variety of dog sports. The breed's natural herding instincts, keen senses, and eagerness to work alongside human companions provide a solid foundation for participation in diverse events. Here’s a list of activities and dog sports that are well-suited for Collies:
Herding Trials: These events celebrate the Collie's natural herding abilities on different types of livestock.
Obedience: At an Obedience Trial, a dog demonstrates its trainability and willingness to follow commands with precision.
Agility: By navigating through one of these obstacle courses, a Collie can highlight its speed, agility, and coordination.
Rally Obedience: Rally is a combination of Obedience and Agility, encouraging precise execution of commands while navigating a course.
Flyball: This team relay race involves jumping hurdles, triggering a spring-loaded box to release a tennis ball, and then racing back with the ball.
Tracking: By using their strong sense of smell to follow a scent trail, dogs can demonstrate their natural tracking abilities.
Conformation Shows: At these competitive events, individual dogs showcase their breed’s physical attributes and their adherence to a written Breed Standard.
Search & Rescue: Utilizing their keen senses in search and rescue operations can be a challenging endeavor for a dog as it navigates various terrain and environmental conditions.
Therapy Work: Since the Collie is acclaimed for its intelligence and empathy, these dogs can provide comfort and support in various facilities, including hospitals, schools, and nursing homes.
Collies thrive when they have a job to do, so engaging them in these and other activities helps to keep their minds sharp and their bodies in top condition. Participation also strengthens the bond between a dog and its handler, fostering a deeper sense of partnership and mutual respect.
Gallery
07/Standards
The Collie is recognized by the world's leading registries and kennel organizations, which categorize the breed into a specific Group based on its unique characteristics. This breed is recognized worldwide under the following Group designations:
The ideal Collie is described by a Breed Standard that is approved by each of the world’s leading registries and kennel organizations. The Breed Standards for this breed may be found in the following links:
08/Clubs
Collie clubs play a significant role in promoting the welfare and preservation of the breed. These organizations work tirelessly to support Collie owners, breeders, and enthusiasts by providing resources, educational materials, and an active community for individuals who share a passion for this exceptional breed.In the United States, the Collie Club of America stands out as a pivotal organization, dedicated to the preservation and improvement of the breed. Established in the early 20th century, this club has a long-standing tradition of championing the health, well-being, and Breed Standard of the Collie. It also plays a vital role in organizing events, shows, and educational programs to engage and support Collie enthusiasts across the country.The Collie Club of Canada serves as a national organization for Collie supporters in Canada. The club's members work to promote responsible breeding, provide educational resources, and create a supportive community for Collie enthusiasts across the country.In the United Kingdom, The British Collie Club is a prominent purebred dog organization, with a history and dedication to the breed that mirrors that of its North American counterparts. This club stands as a testament to the national and international admiration for the Collie.These clubs, among others, play a crucial role in sustaining the breed’s legacy, promoting responsible ownership, and fostering a sense of community among fanciers of the Collie. They also provide invaluable resources for those looking to adopt a Collie, ensuring that each dog finds a loving home for its lifetime.
09/Rescue
Collie rescue groups can play a vital role in providing care, rehabilitation, and adoption services for a dog in need. These organizations work tirelessly to ensure that every Collie has a chance at a happy, healthy life in a loving home.In the United States, Collie Rescue Foundation, Inc. is a well-known organization that provides support and resources to individual rescuers and established rescue groups. The organization's mission is to improve the quality of life for all Collies in need, addressing issues that result from neglect, abandonment, or surrender.In Canada, Collie Rescue Network is a national organization that assists in the rescue and rehoming of Collies across the country. The group's volunteers work with shelters, other rescues, and individuals to provide a safety net for vulnerable Collies.While there may not be an extensive network of breed-specific rescue groups for Collies in every region, local shelters and general dog rescue organizations can occasionally have a Collie available for adoption. Prospective adopters are encouraged to reach out to these shelters, as they play a crucial role in supporting the welfare of all dogs locally, including any Collie that is in need.
10/Facts
Versatile Workers
Originally bred as a herding dog in Scotland and Northern England, the Collie has been known ever since for its intelligence, agility, and instinctual ability to manage and protect livestock. The keen senses and responsive nature of the breed have made it an exceptional performer in its duties.
Sensational Senses
The Collie boasts impressive senses, especially the dogs' hearing and sense of smell. These heightened abilities can make them excellent watchdogs, as they are quick to alert their owners to anything unusual or potentially threatening.
A Royal Favorite
Queen Victoria of England was known to have a particular fondness for the Collie, contributing to the breed's popularity in the 19th century. Her affection for these dogs played a significant role in making the breed a fashionable pet among the aristocracy and upper classes.
Literary Fame
The Collie gained significant popularity in the 20th century through literature and media. The most famous Collie, Lassie, first appeared in a short story that later expanded into a full-length novel called "Lassie Come-Home," written by Eric Knight in 1938. The story's success catapulted the Collie into stardom, resulting in numerous motion pictures and a long-running television show.
Hollywood Stars
Beyond Lassie, Collies have made several appearances in films and television, showcasing the breed's considerable elegance, intelligence, and even its acting prowess. The Collie's photogenic appearance and trainable nature continue to make these dogs a favorite choice for roles in the entertainment industry.
Symbol of Scotland
The Collie is often associated with Scottish heritage and culture, reflecting the breed's origins and long-standing history in the country. The breed is considered a symbol of Scotland's rugged, pastoral beauty and is celebrated as an emblem of Scottish life and art.
The Collie is a breed with considerable allure and fascination, holding a special place in the hearts of dog lovers worldwide. Here are some intriguing facts that highlight the unique qualities and history of this impressive breed:
11/FAQ
The Collie is renowned for its loyalty, intelligence, and gentle nature, making it an excellent choice for most families. They are especially good with children, often displaying a patient and nurturing demeanor. The breed's protective instincts and ability to form strong bonds with family ensure that they are not just amiable pets but also useful members of the household.
Official Standard of the Collie
Rough
General Character: The Collie is a lithe, strong, responsive, active dog, carrying no useless timber, standing naturally straight and firm. The deep, moderately wide chest shows strength, the sloping shoulders and well-bent hocks indicate speed and grace, and the face shows high intelligence. The Collie presents an impressive, proud picture of true balance, each part being in harmonious proportion to every other part and to the whole. Except for the technical description that is essential to this Standard and without which no Standard for the guidance of breeders and judges is adequate, it could be stated simply that no part of the Collie ever seems to be out of proportion to any other part. Timidity, frailness, sullenness, viciousness, lack of animation, cumbersome appearance and lack of over-all balance impair the general character.
Head: The head properties are of great importance. When considered in proportion to the size of the dog the head is inclined to lightness and never appears massive. A heavy-headed dog lacks the necessary bright, alert, full-of-sense look that contributes so greatly to expression. Both in front and profile view the head bears a general resemblance to a well-blunted lean wedge, being smooth and clean in outline and nicely balanced in proportion. On the sides it tapers gradually and smoothly from the ears to the end of the black nose, without being flared out in backskull (cheeky) or pinched in muzzle (snipy). In profile view the top of the backskull and the top of the muzzle lie in two approximately parallel, straight planes of equal length, divided by a very slight but perceptible stop or break. A mid-point between the inside corners of the eyes (which is the center of a correctly placed stop) is the center of balance in length of head. The end of the smooth, well-rounded muzzle is blunt but not square. The underjaw is strong, clean-cut and the depth of skull from the brow to the under part of the jaw is not excessive. The teeth are of good size, meeting in a scissors bite. Overshot or undershot jaws are undesirable, the latter being more severely penalized. There is a very slight prominence of the eyebrows. The backskull is flat, without receding either laterally or backward and the occipital bone is not highly peaked. The proper width of backskull necessarily depends upon the combined length of skull and muzzle and the width of the backskull is less than its length. Thus the correct width varies with the individual and is dependent upon the extent to which it is supported by length of muzzle. Because of the importance of the head characteristics, prominent head faults are very severely penalized.
Eyes: Because of the combination of the flat skull, the arched eyebrows, the slight stop and the rounded muzzle, the foreface must be chiseled to form a receptacle for the eyes and they are necessarily placed obliquely to give them the required forward outlook. Except for the blue merles, they are required to be matched in color. They are almond-shaped, of medium size and never properly appear to be large or prominent. The color is dark and the eye does not show a yellow ring or a sufficiently prominent haw to affect the dog's expression. The eyes have a clear, bright appearance, expressing intelligent inquisitiveness, particularly when the ears are drawn up and the dog is on the alert. In blue merles, dark brown eyes are preferable, but either or both eyes may be merle or china in color without specific penalty. A large, round, full eye seriously detracts from the desired sweet expression. Eye faults are heavily penalized.
Ears: The ears are in proportion to the size of the head and, if they are carried properly and unquestionably break naturally, are seldom too small. Large ears usually cannot be lifted correctly off the head, and even if lifted, they will be out of proportion to the size of the head. When in repose the ears are folded lengthwise and thrown back into the frill. On the alert they are drawn well up on the backskull and are carried about three-quarters erect, with about onefourth of the ear tipping or breaking forward. A dog with prick ears or low ears cannot show true expression and is penalized accordingly.
Neck: The neck is firm, clean, muscular, sinewy and heavily frilled. It is fairly long, carried upright with a slight arch at the nape and imparts a proud, upstanding appearance showing off the frill.
Body: The body is firm, hard and muscular, a trifle long in proportion to the height. The ribs are well-rounded behind the well-sloped shoulders and the chest is deep, extending to the elbows. The back is strong and level, supported by powerful hips and thighs and the croup is sloped to give a well-rounded finish. The loin is powerful and slightly arched. Noticeably fat dogs, or dogs in poor flesh, or with skin disease, or with no undercoat are out of condition and are moderately penalized accordingly.
Legs : The forelegs are straight and muscular, with a fair amount of bone considering the size of the dog. A cumbersome appearance is undesirable. Both narrow and wide placement are penalized. The forearm is moderately fleshy and the pasterns are flexible but without weakness. The hind legs are less fleshy, muscular at the thighs, very sinewy and the hocks and stifles are well bent. A cowhocked dog or a dog with straight stifles is penalized. The comparatively small feet are approximately oval in shape. The soles are well padded and tough, and the toes are well arched and close together. When the Collie is not in motion the legs and feet are judged by allowing the dog to come to a natural stop in a standing position so that both the forelegs and the hind legs are placed well apart, with the feet extending straight forward. Excessive "posing" is undesirable.
Gait: Gait is sound. When the dog is moved at a slow trot toward an observer its straight front legs track comparatively close together at the ground. The front legs are not out at the elbows, do not "crossover," nor does the dog move with a choppy, pacing or rolling gait. When viewed from the rear the hind legs are straight, tracking comparatively close together at the ground. At a moderate trot the hind legs are powerful and propelling. Viewed from the side the reasonably long, "reaching" stride is smooth and even, keeping the back line firm and level. As the speed of the gait is increased the Collie single tracks, bringing the front legs inward in a straight line from the shoulder toward the center line of the body and the hind legs inward in a straight line from the hip toward the center line of the body. The gait suggests effortless speed combined with the dog's herding heritage, requiring it to be capable of changing its direction of travel almost instantaneously.
Tail: The tail is moderately long, the bone reaching to the hock joint or below. It is carried low when the dog is quiet, the end having an upward twist or swirl. When gaited or when the dog is excited it is carried gaily but not over the back.
Coat: The well-fitting, proper-textured coat is the crowning glory of the Rough variety of Collie. It is abundant except on the head and legs. The outer coat is straight and harsh to the touch. A soft, open outer coat or a curly outer coat, regardless of quantity, is penalized. The undercoat, however, is soft, furry and so close together that it is difficult to see the skin when the hair is parted. The coat is very abundant on the mane and frill. The face or mask is smooth. The forelegs are smooth and well feathered to the back of the pasterns. The hind legs are smooth below the hock joints. Any feathering below the hocks is removed for the show ring. The hair on the tail is very profuse and on the hips it is long and bushy. The texture, quantity and the extent to which the coat "fits the dog" are important points.
Color: The four recognized colors are "Sable and White," "Tri-color," "Blue Merle" and "White." There is no preference among them. The "Sable and White" is predominantly sable (a fawn sable color of varying shades from light gold to dark mahogany) with white markings usually on the chest, neck, legs, feet and the tip of the tail. A blaze may appear on the foreface or backskull or both. The "Tri-color" is predominantly black, carrying white markings as in a "Sable and White" and has tan shadings on and about the head and legs. The "Blue Merle" is a mottled or "marbled" color predominantly blue-grey and black with white markings as in the "Sable and White" and usually has tan shadings as in the "Tri-color." The "White" is predominantly white, preferably with sable, tri-color or blue merle markings.
Size: Dogs are from 24 to 26 inches at the shoulder and weigh from 60 to 75 pounds. Bitches are from 22 to 24 inches at the shoulder, weighing from 50 to 65 pounds. An undersize or an oversize Collie is penalized according to the extent to which the dog appears to be undersize or oversize.
Expression: Expression is one of the most important points in considering the relative value of Collies. Expression, like the term character, is difficult to define in words. It is not a fixed point as in color, weight or height and it is something the uninitiated can properly understand only by optical illustration. In general, however, it may be said to be the combined product of the shape and balance of the skull and muzzle, the placement, size, shape and color of the eye and the position, size and carriage of the ears. An expression that shows sullenness or which is suggestive of any other breed is entirely foreign. The Collie cannot be judged properly until its expression has been carefully evaluated.
Smooth
The Smooth variety of Collie is judged by the same Standard as the Rough variety, except that the references to the quantity and distribution of the coat are not applicable to the Smooth variety, which has a short, hard, dense, flat coat of good texture, with an abundance of undercoat.
Approved May 10, 1977
Profiles & Interviews
William “Bill” Holbrook and Roz Durham are honored as 2026 Quarter Century Collie Group Hall of Fame inductees.
Meet the Judges
Joseph Reno reflects on judging Herding breeds at the 2026 Westminster KC Dog Show, highlighting Breed winners and overall entry quality.
American Kennel Club (AKC)
Marie Ann Falconer reflects on judging Collies, Shetland Sheepdogs, Spanish Water Dogs and Swedish Vallhunds at the 2025 AKC Nat Championship.
Meet the Breeders
George Robert Rohde reflects on his Collie journey, blending breeding, owner handling, mentorship, and a commitment to preserving the breed.
What makes a great Collie judge? Learn the key traits breeders value—expression, head quality, movement, and breed-specific type.
A call to preserve the true Collie expression – why structure, type, and history matter in honoring the breed’s enduring essence.
Meet the Breeders
April Hain Trevino, M.D., shares her lifelong passion for Collies and the mission behind Maverick Collies’ ethical breeding program.
Meet the Breeders
Carolyn Lenhart of Marnus Collies preserves a 79-year Collie legacy, focused on breed quality, health, and classic expression.
Meet the Breeders
Gambit Collies reflects on 45 years of breeding, showing, and preserving the Collie’s expression, temperament, and legacy.
The Collie’s tail is moderately long, reaching at least to the hock joint, with an upward swirl or twist at the end. It is carried low when the dog is at rest, reflecting the breed’s calm and composed nature. When alert or excited, the dog may carry its tail higher but never curled over the back.
The tail is well furnished with an abundance of hair, which adds considerably to the breed’s appeal. The hair on the tail is long and dense, forming a bushy appearance that showcases the breed’s beauty and elegance.
The tail of the Collie is important to the breed’s overall balance and symmetry. It is never docked. Rather, the tail reflects the breed's usefulness in the Scottish Highlands as a working dog of great character and charm.
Standard Markings
A Note About Color: There are four recognized colors in the breed: Sable and White; Tri-Color; Blue Merle; and White. Sable and White is predominantly sable in varying shades from light gold to mahogany. Tri-Color is predominantly black with markings and tan shadings on the head and legs. Blue Merle is a mottled coloration of predominantly blue-gray and black with white markings, and usually, tan shadings. White is predominantly white with sable, tri-color, or blue markings. No color or markings are preferred in the breed.
Coat Type
Smooth, Rough
The structure of the coat this breed carries.
Coat Length
Short, Long
How long the breed's coat grows when kept in condition.
Adaptability Level
How easily a breed copes with changes in home, routine, noise and weather.
Mental Stimulation Needs
How much a breed needs a job, a puzzle or training to stay content.
Feeding a Collie a balanced and nutritious diet is paramount to the dog's overall health and well-being. Owners should pay close attention to the quality of the food provided, ensuring it meets the dog's specific age, weight, and condition requirements.
For Collie puppies, it is recommended to feed a high-quality puppy formula that supports rapid growth and development. As a pup transitions to adulthood, its dietary needs will change and an adult dog formula will be needed.
The amount of food a Collie requires can vary based on the dog's age, weight, and activity level, but on average, an adult may require 2 to 3 cups of dry food per day. This should be divided into two or three meals to aid in digestion and to prevent bloat, a condition to which some dogs can be prone.
Monitoring the Collie's weight is crucial, as this breed can be prone to obesity. Regular vet check-ups can help to keep weight in check, and providing a balanced diet, coupled with regular exercise, will contribute significantly to overall health, promoting a longer and more vibrant life.
A Collie should always have access to fresh water, ensuring it stays well-hydrated throughout the day. Additionally, treats can be used as rewards during training sessions, but they should be given in moderation to avoid excessive weight gain. Vegetables can be a nutritious, low-calorie option.
The Collie is renowned for its intelligence and trainability, making these dogs a pleasure to work with for both novice and experienced dog owners. However, the breed's sensitivity requires a gentle training approach, as they respond best to positive reinforcement and may shut down if treated harshly.
The breed's intelligence means Collies pick up on commands quickly, but it also means they require mental stimulation to prevent boredom. Engaging in training activities, puzzle toys, and interactive games can help to keep the dog's mind active and engaged. Consistency is key in training, as routine and clear expectations produce the best results.
While Collies are not known for excessive barking, they will alert their owners to strangers and unusual activities around the house and yard. Training them to understand when to stop barking is important for maintaining a peaceful household and good relations with the neighbors.
The Collie has a moderate to low need to wander, which means it is less likely to roam far from home. However, a secure, fenced-in yard is recommended to provide the dog with a safe space to exercise and play. Together with proper training and socialization from a young age, a safe environment will support the dog's typically friendly and fun-loving nature.
Grooming Expectations
For Rough Collies, the abundant coat requires brushing at least two to three times each week to prevent matting and to keep the coat free of debris and tangles. During the shedding seasons, daily brushing can become necessary to manage the increased hair loss and to distribute the coat's natural oils. Smooth Collies, with their shorter coats, require less intensive grooming but still benefit from regular brushing. A weekly session should suffice, helping to remove the loose hair and maintain the coat’s condition. For both coat types, paying attention to areas prone to matting, such as behind the ears and under the legs, is important. In addition to brushing the coat, regular nail trimming, ear cleaning, and dental care are essential for the Collie. Keeping the nails short prevents discomfort and potential health issues, while clean ears help to prevent infections from taking hold. Incorporating dental care, through brushing or dental chews, contributes to oral health and minimizes bad breath. By maintaining a consistent grooming regimen, the Collie can be expected to stay in top condition. Through regular grooming sessions, the coat will always look its best and any potential health issue can be caught early on. Also, an important benefit is the connection between both dog and groomer that's strengthened with every session.
