Collie Breed Description

Introduction

or most of their history, smooth Collies have been classified with the rough Collies. The personalities of these two breeds have diverged, perhaps because of the smaller gene pool of the rather uncommon smooth Collie which is rare outside of Great Britain. Rough coats are also called Scottish Collies and are more popular than the smooth. They are both good family dogs. Coat colors for both breeds are the same, sable & white, blue merle and tricolor. They need regular grooming and exercise. The size at the shoulder for males is from 24"- 26", weight 60-75 lbs. Female size is from 22"- 24", weight 50 - 65 lbs.

History

The Collie breed of dog originated in Scotland and is a descendant of herding dogs. This immensely intelligent dog is a conscientious creature for water rescue purposes and as a shepherd dog for herding and guarding flocks. Collies were kept in Scotland’s Balmoral Castle by Queen Victoria and her interest certainly contributed to the breed’s popularity. In comparison to the Rough Collie, Smooth Collies are preferred as companion dogs both in the U.S. and Britain. The first presentation of a Collie was in 1860 at a dog show.

General Description

A Collie is a long-coated, active, agile and lively sheepdog with a lean, wedge-shaped and blunted head that gives it an impression of lightness. The head's top is flat, the face chiseled with a well rounded, smooth, long and blunt muzzle tapering to its black nose. This dog has ¾ erect-ears with their tips folded forward and dark almond-shaped eyes except for the Blue Merles, which have merle or blue eyes. The length of their trim, muscular body slightly exceeds its height. The chest of a Collie is fairly wide and strong, while the tailbone hangs downwards to the point of its hocks. A rough Collie has a significant double coat that ensures the formation of a mane around its chest and neck, while the Smooth Collie’s coat is a mere one-inch.

Temperament

The Collie breed of dog is quite compatible with different varieties of pets, while being protective and devoted to its loved ones. It is an excellent companion for kids due to its gentle and playful nature, but requires a firm, confident, calm owner to set rules and stick to them consistently. This is imperative because Collies can become stubborn, willful and indolent. Some Collie puppies show signs of herding behavior by nipping people on their heels and ought to be trained to avoid this. Collie puppies should be well socialized to ensure that they are not apprehensive around strangers.

Health and Care

Collies are generally a healthy breed of dog, but some of them are susceptible to hip problems, eye defects and PRA resulting in acute arthritis and lameness. It is advisable to see a veterinarian and acquire a certificate for clearance before the purchase of a puppy. Purchase should be made only from reputable breeders because the popularity of this breed leads to the sale of inferior dogs with poor temperaments and health from disreputable purveyors. Some Collie dogs may also be affected by genetic defections caused by the MDR1 gene's mutation leading them to be extra sensitive to certain drugs.

Other Important Information

With sufficient exercise, Collie dogs do perfectly well in apartments. While indoors, they are moderately inactive and are at their best when in a yard of average size. In regard to their sensitivity to heat, adequate shade should be provided as well as fresh water when the weather is warm. The working breed of Collie dogs are extremely agile and energetic with significant stamina that it enables them to run continuously without tiring. Collies are more appropriate as companions rather than watch dogs, but there exists a variance between different varieties in regard to individual personalities.

Colors

Both Rough and Smooth Collies are available in four standard colours, which are sable and white, tri colour (which is mix of white, black and tan), blue merle and white.

Living Area

Generally Collies are very active and energetic outdoors. However, they behave extremely inactive and lethargic indoors. They can live comfortably in an apartment also if they are properly exercised. They are at their best in an average sized area. Collies are very sensitive to heat so this should be taken care off. Whenever the weather is hot, give them a cover and lots of fresh water. They need to be protected, especially in warm weather.

Recognized By

CKC, FCI, AKC, UKC, ANKC, NKC, NZKC, APRI, ACR

Pets4You offers listings of Collie breeders with puppies for sale.