Collie (Rough)
Other names: Scottish Collie
Origin
It is believed this breed is descended from dogs which accompanied the Roman invaders in 50BC and native Scottish dogs. They probably take their name from a type of black sheep, Colleys, bred in the lowlands of Scotland. In the 1860's Queen Victoria became entranced with these dogs when she visited her Scottish estate at Balmoral and took some back with her to Windsor Castle. Known at that time as the Scottish Sheepdog, the Collie first entered the show-ring at the Birmingham Dog Society Show and was soon highly sought after. By 1878, America followed suit. In the 1940's, the breed shot to even greater fame when a Rough Collie was chosen to star as 'Lassie'.
Description
Rough Collies are dogs of dignity and beauty with sweet, expressive and intelligent looks. They are perfectly balanced and with their abundant coats and elongated, narrow, chiseled heads, they are easily recognisable. Their action is smooth and appears effortless, with great drive coming from their hindlegs.
| Size | Large |
| Colour | These dogs come in shades of sable, tri-colour and blue merle. |
| Coat Length | Medium Long |
| Weight/Height Range | Bitches measure between 51 to 56cms at the withers and weigh between 23 to 30kgs, whilst dogs measure between 56 to 61cms, weighing between 27 to 34kgs. |
| Ailments | With the Collie's susceptibility to skin complaints, good nutrition and grooming practices are a must. Considering the eye problems of the breed, screening is necessary. Ensure a good routine for dental hygiene is in place as Collies have a greater susceptibly to oral problems than most breeds. |
| Breed Classification | Rough Collies belong to the pastoral group and are used for sheep-herding, as companions, in obedience and agility trials as well as in the show-ring. |
Feeding & Ownership
As adults, Collies are an easy breed to feed as they are not fussy eaters.
| Food Cost | $15 to $20 |
Personality
Rough Collies have friendly dispositions with no traces of nervousness or aggression. They are happy dogs who bond very closely with their families and will get on well with other dogs and household pets. Collies are superbly loyal companions for children, always willing to play and to give and accept adoration. They are very protective of their home environment but will warmly receive invited friends.
| Intelligence | Rough Collies learn very quickly and, because of their sensitive natures, should be trained in a positive manner with neither physical abuse or harsh verbal treatment being used. |
| Energy | High |
| Suitability for Children | High |
| Tendency to Bark | High |
| Overall Exercise Requirement | Surprisingly enough, Rough Collies do not demand too much exercise and will easily adapt to family circumstances. However, free-running should be given, allowing them time to play with and retrieve a ball. Care must be taken to stop them putting on too much weight. |
| Suitability as a Guard Dog | Medium |
| Ease of Transportation | High |
| Level of Aggression | High |
| Other Animal Compatibility | High |
Grooming
With their abundant double coats, Collies need weekly brushing to prevent serious matting. The under coat is soft and furry, sitting close to the skin, while the outer coat is harsh and straight. During moulting, daily brushing is beneficial. Occasional trimming will keep the feathering on the front legs and tail in check.
| Grooming Requirements | Once a week |
| Amount of Hair Shed | Moderate |
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