Collie

Temperament & Personality

You'll find Rough Collies to be loyal, intelligent, and gentle companions. This herding breed thrives on family interaction and often forms strong bonds with children. Collies are protective but usually mild-mannered at home. Thanks to their active herding background, they enjoy daily exercise and mental challenges—without enough activity, a Collie can become restless. In general, a Collie's temperament is affectionate and eager-to-please. They alert you to changes around the house, but they are rarely aggressive. With kind, consistent training and early socialization, your Collie will mature into a well-behaved and responsive family pet.

Care, Living Environment & Grooming

Rough Collies do best when you have space for them to roam. Ideally, provide a fenced yard or frequent outings, as they enjoy running and playing. While Collies can adapt to calmer households, they need at least an hour of exercise daily (walks, play, or agility work). Their double coat protects them in cold weather, but can make them prone to overheating in the heat, so watch sunny days and avoid extreme temperatures. Grooming is a regular part of Collie care:

• Brushing: Brush or comb 2–3 times per week to remove loose fur and prevent mats, especially in spring/fall during heavy shedding.
• Bathing: Bathe every 6–8 weeks or as needed; avoid over-bathing to preserve natural coat oils.
• Ears & Nails: Check ears weekly for debris and trim nails monthly. Collies' erect-tipped ears may collect dirt, and long nails can become uncomfortable.
• Professional Trims: Occasional trims around the feet and sanitary areas can help keep your Collie tidy, though many owners do this at home.

Training & Socialization

Collies are highly trainable because they're smart and eager to learn. You'll find that they pick up commands quickly with positive reinforcement (praise and treats). Start training and socializing your Collie puppy early: introduce them to various people, pets, and environments so they grow confident. Collies are protective by nature, so gentle exposure to strangers and other animals will help prevent shyness or wariness later. Because they love a job, many Collies excel in obedience, agility, or herding tasks when trained. Remember to be patient and clear—harsh methods can upset these sensitive dogs. With consistent training, your Collie will reward you with devotion and obedience.

Health Considerations

Rough Collies typically live about 10–14 years. They are generally healthy, but watch for breed-related conditions:

• Hip Dysplasia & Bloat: Like many large breeds, Collies can develop joint issues or gastric torsion (bloat). Maintaining a healthy weight and not overfeeding at once can help reduce risks.
• Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA): A congenital eye defect that can cause vision problems. Responsible breeders screen for CEA.
• MDR1 (Multi-Drug Resistance) Mutation: Many Collies carry this genetic mutation affecting drug sensitivity. Always inform your vet of the Collie breed before any medications.
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): A hereditary eye disease that can lead to blindness. Genetic testing is available to identify carriers.
• Dermatomyositis: An inflammatory disease affecting skin and muscle, seen in Collies and related breeds. It causes lesions typically on the face and ears in young dogs.

Regular vet check-ups and health screenings will help keep your Collie in top shape.

Cost of Ownership

Rough Collies are a larger breed, so their ownership costs are significant. A Collie puppy from a reputable breeder typically costs $800–$2,000. Adoption or rescue fees are much lower (around $150–$500). On top of the initial fee, plan for essentials like a large crate, leash, and grooming tools, plus spaying/neutering and vaccinations. Yearly expenses for food, vet care, and insurance can run $1,000 or more. Collies have a long double coat, which means budget for grooming supplies or occasional professional grooming sessions. Training classes or advanced activities (like agility) can add to the costs. Being prepared for these expenses ensures you can fully care for your Collie's needs.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Very intelligent and obedient, making training rewarding.
• Affectionate and loyal with family members, especially good with children.
• Beautiful long coat and elegant build.

Cons

• Requires substantial exercise and mental stimulation.
• Heavy shedding and regular brushing required.
• Sensitive nature; harsh training methods can upset them.

Fun Facts

• Hollywood fame: The Rough Collie became world-famous through the fictional dog Lassie, starring in books, movies, and TV.
• Royal roots: Queen Victoria's interest in Collies helped popularize the breed in the 19th century.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do Rough Collies live?

Rough Collies have an average lifespan of about 10–14 years with proper care.

Are Rough Collies good with children and families?

Yes. Collies are known for being gentle, patient, and affectionate with kids. They enjoy being part of family activities.

How much grooming does a Rough Collie require?

Rough Collies have a thick double coat. You should brush your Collie several times a week and bathe them every couple of months to prevent mats and keep their fur healthy.

Do Collies have any special health issues?

Collies can carry the MDR1 gene mutation, which affects how they process certain medications. They're also prone to Collie Eye Anomaly and hip dysplasia. Regular vet screenings are important.

References

1. PetMD – Collie
2. Weenect – Rough Collie
3. Hepper Blog – Collie Cost