by Sandra Goodwin

Created on: March 28, 2009   Last Updated: April 01, 2009

Both smooth and rough coated collies can be found throughout the long history of herding dogs in Scotland and Northern England. Since first shown in England in 1860 the rough coated collie has seen many changes. They have doubled in size from the first herding collies who were usually 18 to 40 lbs. Coats on the modern rough collie are thicker and the recognized colors have been standardized to only four color types: sable and white (like Lassie), tri color (predominantly black with tan and white marking) blue merle (mottled blue/grey and black with some white), and white. The head of the modern collie is now leaner and lighter with a darker eye. The smooth (short coated) collie is considered the same dog as their rough coated siblings.

Queen Victoria is credited with bringing the working collies of Balmoral to the attention of English dog fanciers. Keeping written pedigrees began in the early 1800s and the breed progressed rapidly. "Old Cockie" born in 1867 is believed to have been the dog most responsible for our current collie characteristics and development of the the sable coat color. The first collie shown in the USA was at the 2nd Westminster dog show in 1877. By 1886 our current standard was set.

The collie is classified as a medium sized dog. Males are 24-26 inches at the shoulder and weigh 60-75 lbs while females are 22-24 inches at shoulder and 50-65 lbs. Over or undersized dogs are not uncommon.

Herding is the collie's group classification with the AKC. Because they were bred with a job in mind they are athletic with energy levels running from moderate to high. There are working collie clubs who train and work their dogs doing the old job they were created for. If you live in the city or an apartment collies can adjust quite well to a daily walk around the block, a trip to the dog park or a simple wrestling game. Each dog is an individual and you will find a broad spectrum from lay around and sleep most of the day to ones who love to run with you at the park. Compared to more active breeds, collies are not hyper.

The rough coated collie requires weekly brushing to keep their silky double coats in good shape. Some people prefer the smooth variety who require less grooming although they still shed.

Due to a herding background, collies get along well with other animals. They display a natural protectiveness towards smaller or younger animals in the family.

With their happy, willing personality and exceptional intelligence, training is easy using softer methods. Collies excel as therapy dogs because of a naturally loving nature that endears them to all they meet. Even into old age, collies retain a portion of silly puppy attitude, always enjoying a good game. Having the only AKC description mentioning devotion to children is an excellent indication a collie can be a perfect addition to families with kids.

Our modern collie is well suited and very happy doing the job of family pet and protector.

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