This breed of dog was originally found in Northern England, the Scottish Lowlands, and the Highlands of Scotland. They were originally used as herding dogs but are now commonly kept as beloved pets. Collies are known for their high sensitivity and intelligence. They are deeply attached to their owners and have the ability to anticipate their needs. Many stories exist about Collies saving humans or animals due to their remarkable personality traits.
Collies can be identified by two distinct appearances: a short coat, known as the smooth type, and a full coat, known as the rough version. They can adapt to any setting and enjoy both indoor and outdoor activities as long as they receive sufficient exercise. Collies have strong herding instincts, so you may see them chasing or barking at cars, herding children or small animals. However, they are always calm and protective.
These dogs excel in various sports such as agility, lure coursing, herding tests, and obedience. Unless provoked or left alone for a long time, Collies are generally quiet and peaceful. They come in a variety of colors including white, tan, blue merle, and tricolor.
Below, we look at Collie dog breed, its history, personality, pros and cons of owning an Collie, characteristics, and must-know facts. We will also examine how to care for this breed and a lot more. Prepare for a tail-wagging adventure into the world of Collies!
| Dog Breed | Collie |
| Size | |
| Weight | 50-65 lbs (average) |
| Height | 22-24″ (average) |
| Location | Scotland, England Highlands |
| Ancestry | Collie, Sheepdog |
| Date of Origin | 1800s |
| Group | Sheep herding |
| Life Expectancy | |
| Price | |
| Family | Canidae |
| Scientific Name | Canis Lupus Familiaris |
📖 Breed History
These stunning dogs, known as Collies, were originally discovered in the Highland Regions of Scotland. In the past, their appearance varied greatly as their herding abilities were valued more than their looks. They were typically black and roughly the same size as Border Collies today. However, over time, Collies were selectively bred to develop their distinctive coat and face structure.
During the Stone Age, nomads brought Collies to Southern England where they became renowned for their toughness and intelligence in herding livestock such as sheep, pigs, goats, and cattle. It is believed that the ancestors of Collies were introduced to the British Isles by Roman conquerors around two thousand years ago. Although these dogs were on the verge of fading into obscurity, they were saved when Queen Victoria brought some of them to England in 1860 after seeing them during her visit to Scotland.
The Collie breed made its debut at a dog show in the “Scotch Sheep-dogs” category in Birmingham, England in 1860. In 1879, the first Collie was imported to the United States, and on August 26, 1886, the Collie Club of America, one of the oldest canine specialty clubs, was established. The popularity of Collies skyrocketed after one of them was featured in the 1950s television series, Lassie.
🐕 Collie Appearance
Collies come in two varieties: the Smooth type has shorter fur, and the Rough variety has a lovely dog with a long coat that is shorter around the head and legs, creating a mane around the neck and chest. The Rough type has a thick, rough exterior coat and an equally thick, soft undercoat, which makes it difficult to see their skin when you divide their hair. Even though the Smooth variety’s outer coat is flat and shorter, it is still quite dense and has a deep undercoat. Sable, tricolor (a black foundation with white markings and tan shading), white (which might contain markings), and blue merle (a black and silvery blue tint) are just a few of the numerous color varieties they come in. They have flat-topped heads, arched eyebrows, and are slim, powerful canines. Their heads are wedge-shaped, chiseled, and have round muzzles, black noses, and small stops. With the exception of blue merles, who may have blue or other colored eyes, they have scissor-bite teeth and medium-sized, almond-shaped, brown eyes. Collies have ears with tips that bend forward and are only partially erect. They have lengthy necks and bodies that are a little bit longer than their height. Long legs and a tail with a small curve at the end are characteristics of these animals.
| 👀 Eye Color | Brown |
| 🐽 Nose Color | Black |
| 🐕 Coat Color | Black, Sable, Blue |
⚡ Fun Fact:
🐶 Traits & Temperament of Collie
Collies are reputed to be incredibly devoted to and protective of their family, especially young children. They get along well with younger children and smaller pets since they may be lively while also being kind, loving, and gentle. Despite their peaceful demeanor, Collies occasionally show suspicion toward strangers, especially if those individuals approach any small children in the household. They work effectively as guard dogs since they will bark at any strangers but won’t bite. These perceptive animals are renowned for making superb service and therapy dogs. Collies are intelligent dogs who learn quickly and are simple to teach. They are also skilled in canine sports including obedience, agility, and lure coursing. As long as they receive enough activity, these dogs may adjust to the majority of residential settings. All they’ll need to stay content is a daily stroll and some time spent playing outside. They value their families much and like to be around them. They cannot, therefore, spend the entire day alone outside in the backyard. The dog’s training, socialization, and heredity all affect temperament. Expose your Collie to a variety of people and situations while they are young to ensure that they develop into a calm, friendly, and well-rounded dog. Collie breeds have a tendency to bark excessively when bored or frustrated, therefore it’s crucial to keep them cognitively engaged and stimulated. They’ll be peaceful and happy if you let them take part in family activities and sports.
🤝 Are Collies Friendly or Aggressive?
🐩 Collie Care & Maintenance
These canines are well-known for their luxurious coats. Because of their longer coats, Rough Collies will require more grooming and upkeep, but Smooth Collies will benefit from frequent brushing as well. Rough Collies should be brushed twice a week, whereas Smooth Collies can be groomed once a week. Baths should be provided as needed, which is around once every six to eight weeks. Once a week, examine their ears for dirt, odor, or redness, and clip their nails once a month. Collies’ teeth should be cleaned at least twice a week to avoid foul odor and to remove germs and accumulation. This breed is not hypoallergenic and sheds little. They are usually not droolers and should not stink. Each week, do a fast at-home checkup to look for any swelling, soreness, redness, or other irregularities. This will assist you in detecting any diseases or injuries before they become an issue.
🍖 Food: We recommend 3.2 cups daily, costing you about $1.50 – $1.90 daily, or around $39.00 – $52.00 a month.
🐾 Exercise:
This dog breed requires to be walked for roughly 10 miles per week, which equates to about 45 minutes of physical activity daily. This consistent moderate exercise regimen will help maintain their physical wellness and significantly contribute to their mental stimulation. Consciously setting aside this time for your furry friend can dramatically enhance their life quality, helping them stay energetic, healthy, and mentally alert.
Did you know:
❤️🩹 Collie Health & Issues
Some of the major concerns for Collie Dog Breed can be:
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy
- Hip Dysplasia
- Collie Eye Anomaly
While minor concerns include:
- Allergies
- Skin Problems
- Dermatomyositis
- Nasal Solar Dermatitis
🤧 Important: Is Collie hypoallergenic? .
✨ Bonus: Check out cool, creative, and funny names for Collie.
⚡ Collie Dog Breed Facts
What makes the Collie a great choice for families with young children?
What makes the Collie a great choice for families with young children?Collies are known to be extraordinarily protective and loyal towards their family, especially children. They are playful but kind, sweet and gentle, making them great companions for younger kids. They are also good with smaller pets, making them a suitable choice for families with multiple animals.
Is the Collie breed considered a suitable breed for apartment living?
Is the Collie breed considered a suitable breed for apartment living?The Collie breed requires a significant amount of exercise, so apartment living may not be the most ideal environment for them. However, as long as they get their required exercise, they can adapt to any environment, finding happiness both indoors and outdoors. A daily walk and some playtime in the yard should be sufficient to keep them happy.
How much exercise does a Collie require compared to other breeds?
How much exercise does a Collie require compared to other breeds?Collies are an active breed and require a moderate to high level of exercise. They excel in various dog sports such as agility, lure coursing, herding trials, and obedience. Compared to some other breeds, Collies may require more exercise to keep them physically and mentally stimulated.
Is the Collie breed known for being good with other pets?
Is the Collie breed known for being good with other pets?Collies are generally good with other pets, including smaller animals. They have a kind and gentle nature, making them suitable for households with multiple pets.
What are other low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Collie?
What are other low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Collie?Some low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Collie include the Shetland Sheepdog, Border Collie, and Australian Shepherd. These breeds share similar herding instincts and intelligence levels.
What are the common health issues that Collies are prone to?
What are the common health issues that Collies are prone to?Collies are prone to certain health issues such as hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), collie eye anomaly (CEA), and certain types of cancers. Regular veterinary check-ups and a healthy lifestyle can help mitigate these risks.
Are Collies known to be easy to train compared to other breeds?
Are Collies known to be easy to train compared to other breeds?Collies are known for their high levels of intelligence, which makes them easy to train. They are quick learners and excel in obedience training. Their eagerness to please their owners and their sensitivity contribute to their trainability.
Are Collies more prone to separation anxiety compared to other breeds?
Are Collies more prone to separation anxiety compared to other breeds?Collies, like many other breeds, can be prone to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods of time. They are very family-oriented and prefer to be around their people. Proper socialization and training from a young age can help prevent or manage separation anxiety.
Are there any dog breeds similar to the Collie that are suitable for people with allergies?
Are there any dog breeds similar to the Collie that are suitable for people with allergies?For individuals with allergies, some low-shedding dog breeds similar to the Collie include the Shetland Sheepdog, Border Collie, and Australian Shepherd. These breeds have a similar appearance and temperament but may produce less dander and shed less, making them potentially better options for those with allergies.
What sizes of dogs similar to the Collie are best for individuals or families with limited space?
What sizes of dogs similar to the Collie are best for individuals or families with limited space?For individuals or families with limited space, smaller dog breeds similar to the Collie may be more suitable. Shetland Sheepdogs and Border Collies are smaller in size compared to the standard Collie and may be more manageable in limited living spaces.
Is the Collie breed known to be good with children with special needs?
Is the Collie breed known to be good with children with special needs?Collies, with their protective and gentle nature, can be good companions for children with special needs. However, it is important to introduce them to different situations and people when they are young to ensure they are well-socialized and comfortable in various environments.
How does the grooming and shedding needs of the Collie?
How does the grooming and shedding needs of the Collie compare to other breeds?The Collie breed has a double coat, and the level of grooming and shedding can vary depending on the variety (smooth or rough). Rough-coated Collies require more grooming to prevent matting and tangles, as their long hair needs regular brushing. Both varieties shed, but the rough variety tends to shed more. Regular brushing and occasional bathing can help manage shedding and keep their coat healthy.
We use reliable and publicly available data and resources such as AKC and American Canine Registry to ensure that Collie dog breed information is accurate and up to date. If you spot an error, please don’t hesitate to bring it to our attention.
