Description

The Collie presents a picture of true balance, each part being in harmonious proportion to every other part and to the whole. Collies is considered one of the most beautiful breeds because of their elegant appearance. The Collie comes in two coat varieties, the less common Smooth Coated and the Rough Coated with the only difference being the length of thier coat. The Smooth Coated looks like he has a crew cut. Forever immortalized by “Lassie”, he is a true family dog that enjoys human companionship. He is sometimes referred to as the Scottish Collie because of his heritage.

Size of Male: Height: 24-26 inches Weight: 60-75 pounds

Size of Female: Height: 22-24 inches Weight: 60-67 pounds

Temperament

Collies are noble, highly intelligent dogs. Collie are sensitive, sweet, kind, easy to train and loyal. Collie is usually good with other pets and friendly with other dogs. Very devoted to and protective of his loved ones. An excellent children’s companion, playful and gentle, with some exceptions. Collies can be willful and must be trained gently or he will refuse to cooperate. Some exhibit herding behavior as puppies, nipping at people’s heels. Adult dogs generally outgrow this behavior. Collie puppies housetrain quickly, generally in about a week (after about 10-12 weeks old). They are good-natured, friendly, dogs and are energetic outdoors. They can be wary of strangers, stubborn and indolent. It has a fairly good sense of protectiveness for its owner, especially for children. They are not aggressive, but they do tend to be suspicious of people they do not like.

Living Conditions

The Collie will do okay in an apartment as long as they are sufficiently exercised. Collies are relatively inactive indoors and do best with at least an average-sized yard. Collies are sensitive to the heat. Do provide plenty of shade and fresh water in warm weather. Do provide enough chances for them to socialize as well as bring them for exercise daily.

Upkeep

Collie needs a good walk or jog on leash or a fun play session every day. Herding is an excellent exercise for Collies. The Collie can live outdoors in temperate to cool climates, but it is such a family-oriented dog that it is far happier indoors. The coat of the smooth variety needs minimal care; the coat of the rough variety needs brushing or combing every other day, even more when shedding.

Health

Major concerns: Collie eye anomaly, Hip dysplasia

Minor concerns: progressive retinal atrophy, Eye problems

Life expectancy: 10 – 16 years