The Rough Collie is a herding breed known for its intelligence, loyalty, and gentle nature. They have a distinctive long, double coat and require regular grooming to prevent matting.
Origin and Purpose
Developed in Scotland and northern England as a herding dog, primarily for sheep. They also served as drovers and guardians of livestock.
Appearance
Dimensions
Gender
Height
Weight
Female
51-56 cm (20-22 inches)
18-29 kg (40-64 pounds)
Male
56-61 cm (22-24 inches)
20-34 kg (44-75 pounds)
Coat
Attribute
Notes
Color
Sable, tricolor (black, white, and tan), blue merle, and white. White markings often present on the chest, legs, and tail tip.
Type
Dense, double coat with a coarse, straight outer coat and a soft, dense undercoat.
Length
Long
Care
Attribute
Notes
Shedding
High
Grooming
Regular brushing, several times a week to prevent matting
Drooling
Low
Body
Attribute
Notes
Head
Well-proportioned and refined, with a moderate wedge shape.
Skull
Flat, tapering towards the muzzle
Ears
Small, semi-erect, and carried with the tips bending forward or falling.
Eyes
Almond-shaped, medium size and set obliquely, with a gentle expression. Dark brown or blue/merle, or one of each.
Nose
Black
Muzzle
Moderately long and tapering
Teeth
Scissor bite
Neck
Moderately long, muscular, and arched
Forequarters
Shoulders well laid back
Fore Legs
Straight and muscular
Hindquarters
Muscular and well-developed
Hind Legs
Straight with well-bent stifles
Feet
Oval in shape, with well-arched toes, and thick pads.
Tail
Long, carried low when relaxed and with a slight upward curve at the tip, but can be raised when alert or excited, but not over the back.
Gait
Smooth, effortless, and ground-covering
Temperament
Intelligent, sensitive, and devoted dogs. Known for their loyalty and gentle nature.
Social
Attribute
Notes
Affectionate with Family
Very affectionate
Good with Children
Excellent
Good with Dogs
Good
Good with Cats
Good, if properly socialized
Openness to Strangers
Reserved, but not usually aggressive
Playfulness Level
Moderate
Protective Nature
Moderately Protective
Adaptability Level
Adaptable
Working Roles
Herding livestock, especially sheep. Also used as therapy dogs and family companions.
Exercise Needs
Moderate, needs daily walks and playtime.
Health
Generally healthy, but can be prone to certain conditions like Collie Eye Anomaly, hip dysplasia, and progressive retinal atrophy. They can also be sensitive to ivermectin.
Additional Notes
Needs early socialization and consistent training. Sensitive to harsh treatment.
ankc
ckc
fci
nzkc
rkc
