Collie picture
Collie

Rough Collie, Scottish Collie, Long-Haired Collie, English Collie, Lassie Dog

Overview

The collie is an active, lithe, strong dog that combines strength, speed and grace. Its gait suggests effortless speed as well as the ability to change speed and direction instantly, as required in herding dogs. The coat can be of two types, both with a soft, abundant undercoat. The outer coat of the smooth variety is short, hard and flat; that of the rough variety is straight, harsh, abundant and long, particularly on the mane and ruff. The collie's expression is an important hallmark of the breed, and depends upon the shape and balance of the skull and muzzle, as well as the characteristics of the eyes and ears. It should be bright, alert and intelligent — traits accentuated by a fairly refined head.

Collies are impressive dogs; friendly, highly-intelligent, proud, and beautiful. They are great at understanding human's moods and they are very fond of children, making them ideal family pets. Collies require daily exercise and human interaction to be happy. Gentle training is all that is required for a Collie to learn easily and quickly. They have historically been and continue to be beloved family companions.

Size Large
Height Male: 24-26 inches (61-66 cm)Female: 22-24 inches (56-61 cm)
Weight Male: 60-75 pounds (27-34 kg)Female: 50-65 pounds (23-29 kg)
Lifespan 14-16 years
Colors Black White & Tan Blue Merle Blue Merle & White Sable Sable & White White White Merle
Origin United Kingdom
Classification Purebred
Good Lapcat
Good In Apartments

The Collie will dog okay in an apartment as long as it is sufficiently exercised. They are relatively inactive indoors and do best with at least an average-sized yard. Sensitive to the heat. Provide plenty of shade and fresh water in warm weather.

Good With Children

Good with Kids: This is a suitable breed for kids and is known to be playful, energetic, and affectionate around them.

Good With Dogs

Good With Cats

Exercise Needs

The Collie needs plenty of exercise, which includes a daily, long walk. In addition, they would enjoy some romps off the leash in a safe area.

Trainability

Easy Training: The Collie has a well-deserved reputation of being easy to train. Collies are eager to learn and obey. They are sensitive to the tone of the trainer's voice, so good results can be achieved through positive reinforcement. If Collies are trained too harshly they may become afraid or refuse to cooperate. Collies are quickly housetrained..

Affectionate

Playfulness

Grooming Requirements

High Maintenance: Grooming should be performed often to keep the dog's coat in good shape. Professional groomers can be sought after for assistance. Occasional trimming or stripping needed.

Shedding

Constant and Seasonal Shedding: Rough Collies go through a heavy shed twice a year, called blowing coat. During this time, brush him daily to keep all the loose hair under control. The Smooth Collie doesn’t blow his coat, but he sheds more throughout the year than the Rough Collie does.

Vocalization/Barking

Occassional

Collie Pictures