Collie

By LifeLearn

"The Lassie Dog"

Photo of Collie

History

18th century Scottish shepherds were justifiably proud of their native herding dogs, who not only could gather the flocks, but entertain children and sound alarms. It's likely that the Romans brought Collies into the United Kingdom when they invaded Britain. They evolved to be great farm workers, workaday helpmates, household companions and rescue dogs – or a little of everything. The breed caught the attention and warmed the hearts of commoners and royalty alike. Queen Victoria was a great admirer because of their beauty and sweet demeanor.

Temperament

Gentle, graceful and sweet, the Collie wags her tail gently whenever approached. Eyes seem to smile their welcome. They're willing to do the same chore again and again, only asking a loving touch in thanks. Exception to appropriate jobs: watch dog – they will watch and likely bark, but they're also as likely to let an escaped convict in the yard as your great aunt Fanny. Ignoring this breed is impossible – they just won't allow it! As adults, Collies follow the ones they adore, not interfering but just keeping company. Left alone for too long, they'll vocalize their displeasure. They'll tell you, they'll tell the neighbors, they'll tell the world. The breed's sensitivity means these dogs cannot tolerate harshness. A raised voice is enough to draw a crushed look. Collies happily play or work with children or adults, but do not demand constant entertainment – just a nearby presence of a loving person. They're as happy curled by your feet while you surf the net as they are walking around the block.

Photo of Collie

Appearance

Not all Collies are red-blonde sable and long-coated! Tri colors (black, tan and white), blue merles and whites appear in both the rough coat and smooth coat varieties. Their ears fold forward at the tip; eyes are usually brown, but the merles may have blue eyes or one of each color! The long tail wags almost continually. A rough-coat's hair is medium-long, covering the entire body, with a full, profuse mane, and is described as the rough's “crowning glory”(pictured above). The face of both varieties is smooth. Although the smooth-coat's hair lies close to his body, he does have a thick ruff (pictured left).

Training

Born to please, the Collie adapts easily to household rules. Collies actually want to be good and happily obey commands when taught with love and patience. Whether it's to give a high five, jump through a hoop or perform a perfect heeling routine, a Collie is ready and willing to learn. They aren't born knowing how to do so, however, so don't expect every pup to perform Lassie-like routines.

Grooming & Care

A frequent, thorough brushing of both roughs and smooths helps keep the floating hair tufts to a minimum. Heavy shedding occurs twice a year. A regular bathing schedule encourages dead hair to drop out. It's amazing that the smooth seems to lose as much hair as the longer rough coat – it's just shorter!

Health Concerns

Parents should be OFA certified. The breed does suffer eye problems, so ask whether parents have been tested by an ophthalmologist within the last year. Some lines suffer epilepsy or hypothyroidism. Sensitivity to certain pharmaceuticals necessitates a breed-savvy veterinarian.

Famous Collie

Lassie; the literary "Lad of Sunnybank" by Albert Payson Terhune; Reveille, mascot of Texas A & M University.

Ideal Owner
Activity Level Moderate
Schedule Full-time (but no overtime)
Personal Style Easygoing and casual, Doesn't mind frequent housecleaning
Training Style Gentle, Positive
Home Fenced yard or access to one
Children The more, the merrier!
Experience Not necessary
Quick Facts
Size Medium
Grooming High-maintenance - needs daily grooming
Exercise High - needs to walk every day, plus some running and play
Training Eager to please, Fast learner
Temperament Loyal, Gentle, Sweet
Challenges May bark if left alone for long periods of time, but why would you?
Height 22 to 26 inches
Weight 50 to 75 pounds
Life 8 to 10 years
Home Alone Fine as a trained adult
With Kids Excellent
With Strangers Friendly
Availability Available, so choose your breeder carefully
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