Child-friendly
Energy level
Experience
Coat care
Shedding
Facts and Information
The Collie (Smooth) is a highly intelligent and elegant dog, recognized for its smooth, short coat and graceful demeanor. It belongs to the herding group, originally bred for working livestock in the rugged terrain of Scotland and Northern England. They are a versatile and loyal breed that is equally happy as a companion or as a working dog.
Temperament
The Collie (Smooth) is gentle, affectionate, and known for its friendly demeanor. They are highly sociable and tend to be great with families, including children. Loyal and protective, they are also known for being calm and patient. They are not overly aggressive, making them suitable as family pets.
Activity Level
Collies (Smooth) have a moderate energy level. While they enjoy outdoor activities like walking, running, and playing, they do not require as much exercise as some other high-energy breeds. A daily walk, along with some mental stimulation, is typically enough to keep them happy. However, they enjoy having tasks to do and benefit from activities that challenge their intelligence.
Coat Care
Unlike the Rough Collie, the Collie (Smooth) has a short, dense coat that requires minimal grooming. They are low-maintenance in terms of coat care, requiring only a weekly brushing to keep their coat healthy and shiny. Despite their low grooming needs, they do shed, especially during shedding seasons.
Training
Collies (Smooth) are highly trainable, thanks to their intelligence and eagerness to please. They respond well to positive reinforcement techniques, making them a great choice for first-time dog owners. Consistent, gentle training is key to ensuring that they do not develop undesirable behaviors, as they are instinctively inclined to herd. Early socialization is important to ensure they are well-adjusted in different environments.
Size and Weight
The Collie (Smooth) is a medium-sized dog. On average, males weigh between 60 to 75 pounds (27 to 34 kg), and females weigh between 50 to 65 pounds (23 to 29 kg). They typically stand about 22 to 26 inches (56 to 66 cm) tall at the shoulder.
Special Traits of the Breed
The Collie (Smooth) shares the same calm demeanor and strong protective instincts as the Rough Collie, but with the advantage of a much lower-maintenance coat. Their ability to learn quickly and respond well to training makes them a favorite among dog owners who appreciate intelligence and loyalty in their pets.
Inherited Diseases
The Collie (Smooth) is generally a healthy breed, but they can be prone to certain genetic conditions, such as hip dysplasia and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). Responsible breeding practices help minimize the risk of these conditions, but it’s important to ensure that any dog you adopt comes from a reputable breeder.
Diet
Collies (Smooth) require a balanced and high-quality diet to maintain their energy levels and overall health. They typically do well on a diet consisting of protein-rich foods, vegetables, and grains. As with all breeds, it’s important to feed them appropriate portion sizes based on their age, size, and activity level.
Dog Type
The Collie (Smooth) is a working and companion dog, originally bred for herding. They thrive in active households, but they are adaptable and can be happy in various living environments, provided they get enough exercise and mental stimulation.
5 Facts About the Collie (Smooth)
- Collies (Smooth) are highly intelligent and easy to train.
- Their smooth, short coat makes them low-maintenance compared to the Rough Collie.
- They are known for being very friendly and patient, especially with children.
- They are natural herders and may try to herd people or other pets if not properly trained.
- They are a healthy breed with minimal genetic health concerns when bred responsibly.
