Quick Facts:

Group Classification: Herding, AKC Herding

Country of Origin: Scotland

Date of Origin: 1860

Weight (M): 60-75 pounds Height (M): 24-26 inches

Weight (F): 50-65 pounds Height (F): 22-24 inches

Life Expectancy: 14-16 years
 

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 this interest subsequently contributed to the breed’s popularity. In comparison to the Rough Collie, Smooth Collies are preferred as companion dogs both in the United States and Britain. The first presentation of a Collie was in 1860 at a show for dog breeds.

General Description

A collie is a long-coated, active, agile and lively sheepdog with a lean, wedge-shaped and blunted head that gives it a lightness impression. The head’s top is flat, the face chiseled and its well rounded, smooth, long and blunt muzzle tapering to its black nose. This dog has ¾ erect-ears with their tips folded forward and almond-shaped eyes which are dark apart from 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 comprises of 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

A Collie is a highly intelligent and noble dog with a sweet, sensitive, kind and loyal disposition. 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 to kids due to its gentle and playful nature, but requires a firm, confident, but 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 trained 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 hence 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. 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.

Pets4You offers listings of Collie breeders with puppies for sale.