Home » Meet The Breeds » Collie Dog Breed
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.
Herding
22 – 26 Inches
50 – 75 Pounds
12 – 14 Years
Country of Origin | Scotland |
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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 |
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.
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.
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 Color | |
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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 |
Standard Marking | |
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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.
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, 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.
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 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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
Energy Level | Moderate |
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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.