Child-friendly
Energy level
Experience
Coat care
Shedding
Facts and Information
The Collie (Rough) is a well-known herding dog originally from Scotland. This breed is often recognized for its long, luxurious coat and striking appearance, making it one of the most beloved dogs in the world. They were traditionally used for herding sheep, and their keen intelligence and strong instincts made them ideal working dogs. Collies (Rough) are also famous for their role in popular culture, especially as the beloved dog Lassie.
The breed is known for being gentle, loyal, and affectionate with their families. They thrive in homes where they can get plenty of love, attention, and exercise. Their friendly nature makes them excellent companions for families, especially those with children.
Temperament
The Collie (Rough) is a calm, gentle, and affectionate dog. They are known for their loyalty to their families, and they tend to bond closely with their human companions. Collies are often described as being patient, gentle, and friendly, making them great family pets. They are also quite protective, but not overly aggressive. Their natural instinct is to be protective without being confrontational, and they usually get along well with children and other pets when properly socialized. They are social dogs and enjoy being around their family members, but can also be reserved around strangers.
Activity Level
The Collie (Rough) has a moderate activity level. While they are quite active and enjoy walks, runs, and playtime, they don’t require excessive amounts of exercise. A daily walk and some playtime will generally suffice to keep them happy and healthy. However, because they are a herding breed, they do have a strong desire for mental stimulation. They thrive when given activities that challenge their intelligence, such as agility training or puzzle toys.
Coat Care
The Collie (Rough) has a long, double coat that requires regular maintenance. Their outer coat is long and thick, while the undercoat is soft and dense. This breed requires frequent grooming, at least once or twice a week, to prevent matting and tangling. During shedding seasons (spring and fall), they will shed heavily, so additional grooming may be necessary. Regular brushing helps to keep their coat healthy and free from mats. Bathing is also important, but should be done in moderation to avoid stripping their coat of natural oils.
Training
Collies are highly intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. They respond well to positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise. While they are generally good with basic commands, early socialization and training are important to help them manage their natural herding instincts. They do best with consistent, gentle guidance rather than harsh training methods. Collies are particularly responsive to owners who engage their minds, so incorporating interactive games and tasks into their routine will keep them stimulated.
Size and Weight
The Collie (Rough) is a medium to large-sized breed. Males typically stand between 24 to 26 inches (61 to 66 cm) at the shoulder, while females are slightly smaller, standing between 22 to 24 inches (56 to 61 cm). The weight of a Collie (Rough) generally ranges from 50 to 75 pounds (23 to 34 kg), with males typically being larger than females. They have a graceful, balanced appearance with a strong, muscular build.
Special Traits of the Breed
- Distinctive Coat: The Collie (Rough) is known for its long, flowing coat, which is one of its most distinctive features.
- Herding Instincts: Despite their calm demeanor, Collies have strong herding instincts. They may try to herd other animals or even children if not trained properly.
- Loyal and Affectionate: They are one of the most loyal breeds and form strong bonds with their families.
- Protective Nature: Collies are naturally protective of their families and make excellent watchdogs, although they are not aggressive.
- Highly Trainable: Their intelligence and eagerness to please make them easy to train.
Inherited Diseases
While the Collie (Rough) is generally a healthy breed, they can be prone to some hereditary conditions. Some of the most common health issues include:
- Hip Dysplasia: A condition where the hip joint does not develop properly, leading to arthritis and pain.
- Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA): A genetic eye condition that can lead to blindness if not managed.
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): A degenerative condition that leads to blindness over time.
- Thyroid Issues: Collies can be prone to hypothyroidism, which can affect their energy levels and overall health.
- Regular vet check-ups and proper care can help minimize these risks.
Diet
The Collie (Rough) requires a balanced diet that supports its active lifestyle and large size. A high-quality dog food that contains appropriate levels of protein and fat for their energy needs is essential. Since they are a large breed, it’s important to provide them with a diet that supports joint health, such as food with glucosamine and chondroitin. The portion size should be based on their age, activity level, and metabolism. They may also benefit from a diet rich in antioxidants to support their immune system and overall health.
Dog Type
The Collie (Rough) is a herding and companion dog breed. It was originally bred for working on farms in Scotland, herding sheep and cattle. They are known for their intelligence, agility, and herding instincts. Today, the Collie (Rough) is primarily a family companion, although they are still used in some herding and farm settings. Their calm temperament and friendly nature make them well-suited to family life, and they generally get along well with children and other pets when properly socialized.
5 Facts About the Collie (Rough)
- The Collie (Rough) is best known for its role in popular culture, especially as the Lassie dog.
- Collies are highly intelligent and enjoy mental challenges, making them one of the smartest dog breeds.
- The breed is incredibly gentle and loyal, which makes them excellent family pets.
- Collie (Rough) dogs have a thick, double coat that requires regular grooming, especially during shedding seasons.
- Collies are protective but not aggressive, making them great watchdogs and family protectors.
