The Collies that are now large dogs with flat faces used to be a lot smaller and had broader heads. It was only until they were crossed with Borzoi that they developed these characteristics. The breed gets its name from its charge-black-faced Scottish sheep that were known as ‘Collies’.
Physical Traits
Area of Origin: Scotland
Used for: Herding, Guiding
Average Life Span: 14-16 years
Color: Sable and white, white and tan, blue merle, tricolors of black
Coat: Straight and harsh outer coat; soft and dense undercoat
Average Height: 24-26 inches
Average Weight: 60-75 pounds
Group: Herding
History and Domestication
The exact origins of Collie are a little uncertain but what is known is that it descended from a class of herding dogs. Early rough Collies had broader heads, were smaller with short muzzles and were hardly known outside of Scotland.
These dogs were used for water rescue, guiding cattle and herding. The breed gets its name from its charge – Colley which was a black-faced Scottish sheep. Later in 1800s, Collie was mixed with Borzoi to win in the show ring. The smooth Collie is quite similar to the rough collie but sans the long coat.
Standard Physical Characteristics
This is a lean, large and strong dog. Collies have a wedge-shaped muzzle, a flat skull and a rounded muzzle. The nose is black and tapering with a slight stop. Collies have a chiseled face. The almond-shaped eyes are medium in size and dark in color. The neck is fairly long and legs are straight. There are two coat varieties- rough and smooth.
Care, Grooming and Health
As the coat is stiff, it can easily shed dirt and you will only be required to bush it once a week. However, extra care is needed when its soft, dense undercoat is shedding. Smooth Collies have an inch long coat which should be brushed once in two weeks. The longer coat must be trimmed from time to time. Bathe or dry shampoo when necessary. The smooth Collies are average shedders while the rough variety shed heavily twice a year.
The Collie needs plenty of exercise including long daily walks. They also love romping off leash in a secured area.
This is generally a healthy breed but some of them can be prone to PRA, eye defects, acute lameness and hip dyslexia. They need sunblock on their noses as they are often sun-sensitive.
Living Conditions
If sufficiently exercised, the Collie will do okay in apartment. They are relatively inactive indoors and do best with an average sized yard. They are sensitive to heat and warm weather so provide plenty of shade.
Temperament
The mild-mannered and sweet dog is highly intelligent and easy to train. Collies are good with other pets and friendly with other canines. As they are natural herders, they may try and herd humans and need to be taught not to do this. Collies are good with children and are playful, faithful, docile and protective of their family members. They have an uncanny sense of direction. Socialize them early to prevent them from becoming wary of strangers.
Adoption Groups
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