Menu toggle icon.

Collie Dog Breed

About the Collie

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.

AKC Group

AKC Group

Herding

Dog Breed Height

Height

22 – 26 Inches

Dog Breed Weight

Weight

50 – 75 Pounds

Dog Breed Lifespan

Lifespan

12 – 14 Years

Highlights

Country of Origin Scotland
Bred For Sheep Herding, Companionship
Known For Expression, Gentleness, Loyalty
Popularity High
Temperament Active, Devoted, Friendly
Activities Herding, Guarding, Running, Hiking, Conformation Shows, Dog Sports

History of the Collie

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.

General Appearance

Height & Weight

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.

Proportion & Substance

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.

Coat Texture, Colors & Markings

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.

Collie Colors

Standard Color
Black White & Tan ee
Blue Merle ee
Blue Merle & White ee
Blue Merle White & Tan ee
Sable ee
Sable & White ee
Sable Merle ee
Sable Merle & White ee
White ee
White Merle ee

Collie Markings

Standard Marking
Black & Tan Markings ee
Blue Merle Markings ee
Sable ee
Sable Merle Markings ee

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.

Head

  • 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.

A close-up photo of a Collie's head.

Tail

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.

The Collie – What to 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.

Home Life

Interaction With Family

The level of affection a breed typically shows towards family members and familiar individuals will vary. While some breeds may only show genuine warmth towards their owner, remaining standoffish with strangers, other breeds will treat everyone they meet as if they are their closest friend.
Independent Affectionate

Good With Other Dogs

The innate friendliness of a dog towards other dogs can depend on its breed. Although supervision is always recommended during introductions, certain breeds tend to be inherently more or less sociable with other dogs, whether in a home setting or in public spaces.
Not Recommended Reliable With Other Dogs

Good With Young Children

The degree to which a breed will typically be patient with young children, and its overall suitability as a family member, will vary. It is important to always supervise interactions between dogs and the kids in the house, as well as with children who are not accustomed to being around dogs.
Not Recommended Dependable With Children

Upkeep

Amount Of Shedding

The amount of hair that a dog sheds will typically depend on its breed. Heavy-shedding breeds require more frequent brushing, have a higher chance of activating specific allergies, and often necessitate more frequent use of the vacuum cleaner and lint rollers.
Low High

Frequency Of Grooming

The regularity with which a breed needs bathing, brushing, trimming, or other forms of coat care is an all-important consideration. When evaluating the grooming effort required, consider your available time, patience, and budget. It is important to note that all breeds need routine ear, teeth, and nail care.
Monthly Daily

Amount Of Drooling

The tendency of a breed to drool significantly varies from breed to breed. For those who prefer cleanliness or are particular about keeping things tidy, breeds that are likely to leave trails of drool on your arm or large slobbery marks on your clothing and furniture might not be the best fit.
Low High

Coat Type

smooth
wiry
hairless
rough
corded
double
curly
wavy
sikly

Coat Length

short
medium
long

Behavior

Personality

Trainability Level

The ease with which a dog can be trained and its eagerness to learn new skills can depend on the breed. Some breeds are naturally inclined to please their owners and will readily accept training, while others tend to follow their own desires, often showing independence in how, when, and where they choose to do things.
Stubborn Eager

Barking Level

The frequency of vocalization, including barking and howling, will vary from breed to breed. Some may bark at each person who passes by and every bird in the sky, while others will typically bark only for a good reason. Additionally, a few breeds that do not typically bark will still be vocal, using different sounds to communicate.
Quiet Vocal

Energy Level

The level of physical exercise and mental engagement required will depend on the breed. High-energy breeds are always on the go. They are enthusiastic about their next activity and tend to be busy most of the time, running, jumping, and playing throughout the day. In contrast, low-energy breeds are akin to couch potatoes, content to just lounge around and take naps throughout the day.
Couch Potato Busybody

Need For Mental Stimulation

The extent of mental stimulation needed to keep a dog content and healthy will vary by breed. Dogs bred for specific purposes may need tasks involving decision-making, problem-solving, and concentration. Without sufficient mental exercise, these dogs can resort to creating their own activities to engage their minds, resulting in unwanted behaviors like chewing, digging, and escaping.
Minimal Engagement Intensive Interaction

Collie 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.

Potential Health Risks

The Collie is generally a hardy breed but it does have a few potential health risks. Being proactive in monitoring and addressing these conditions can help to ensure a long and healthy life. The potential health risks include:

  • Collie Eye Anomaly: This is a congenital condition that affects the eyes and can lead to impaired vision. Regular check-ups with a veterinary ophthalmologist are essential for early detection and management.
  • Hip Dysplasia: A genetic disorder where the hip joint doesn’t fit into the hip socket properly, this potentially leads to arthritis and pain. Maintaining a healthy weight and providing proper exercise is helpful.
  • MDR1 Gene Mutation: This genetic mutation affects how Collies metabolize certain drugs, making them more susceptible to the toxic effects of certain medications and anesthesia. Owners should discuss this condition with their veterinarian to ensure safe practices.
  • Dermatomyositis: This is a skin and muscle disease that can range from mild skin issues to severe muscle wasting. Early detection and management are key to handling this condition effectively.

Routine veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and appropriate exercise can significantly contribute to a Collie’s overall health and wellness. This regimen helps to manage the risks and can greatly enhance the dog’s quality of life. Choosing a responsible breeder who screens their breeding stock for these conditions, however, is a critical first step.

Collie Personality

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.

Collie Feeding & Nutrition

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.

Collie Training

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.

Collie Exercise

The Collie possesses a substantial amount of energy and requires regular exercise to maintain optimal health and happiness. The energetic and playful nature of these dogs makes them enthusiastic participants in a variety of physical dog sports, and they particularly enjoy activities that engage both their mind and body.

Exercise Expectations

Energy Level Moderate
Exercise Requirements 2 Hours/Day (Minimum), Daily Walks, Vigorous Running, Regular Exercise, Playing with Another Dog, Mental Stimulation

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.