Collie
Group 5: Working
Height: 51 – 61 cm
Energy Level: Moderate
Original Function: Herding
Lifespan: 12 – 15 yrs
Recommended for: Active people & families.
About This Breed
The Collie is originally from Scotland and was used by the farmers as a sheep-herding dog; it was generally the more common Rough Collie that was used. Due to the television show Lassie the Collie is now one of the most popular dogs in the world.
They are happy dogs who bond very closely with their families and will get on well with other dogs and household pets. Collies are superbly loyal companions, they are very protective of their home environment but will warmly receive invited friends.
Collies are used for sheep-herding, as companions, in obedience and agility trials as well as in the show-ring.
General Characteristics
Appearance: Dog of great beauty with sweet, expressive and intelligent looks. Long wedge shaped head, with almond shaped eyes, usually dark. Ears should be semi erect. Tail is long with profuse coat.
Temperament: Independent, good natured, friendly, collies are rarely nervous or aggressive.
Characteristics: To enable the Collie to fulfil a natural bent for sheep-dog work, its physical structure should be on the lines of strength and activity.
Coat: The outer coat straight and harsh to the touch, the undercoat soft, furry and very close; so close as to almost hide the skin. The mane and frill should be very abundant, the mask or face, smooth, also the ears at the tips, but they should carry more hair towards the base; the fore-legs well feathered, the hind legs above the hocks profusely so, but smooth below. Hair on the tail very profuse.
Smooth– A very important feature of the Smooth Collie is his short, flat topcoat of harsh texture, with a very dense undercoat.
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Colour: The three recognised colours are sable and white, tricolour and blue merle.
Grooming: Rough coat: their abundant double coat, need weekly brushing to prevent serious matting. During moulting, daily brushing is beneficial. Occasional trimming will keep the feathering on the front legs and tail in check.
Smooth coat: short double coat needs minimal grooming a brush weekly would be enough to remove the shed of loose hairs.
Exercise: Do not demand too much exercise and will easily adapt to family circumstances. However, this breed is a working dog and they need regular exercise to keep them in good condition.
Health: This breed is generally sound but some can suffer from epilepsy, hip dysplasia and eye problems.