Collie (Smooth)
Other names: English Bulldog
Origin
The origin of the Collie breed is not entirely know, the Collie originated in Scotland and flourished in England since the 1800s. But before this time, the breed had been used for many centuries prior in both the Highlands of Scotland and throughout early England to shepherd sheep and cattle. Queen Victoria kept Collies at Balmoral Castle in Scotland and her interest launched the breed's subsequent popularity. J.P. Morgan and other members of the upper class have owned Collies.
Description
The Smooth Collie is a loving, active, and agile dog. Their wedge-shaped head gives an impression of lightness. Their ears are 3/4 erect with the tips folding forward. They have almond-shaped dark eyes except in the case of blue merles; their eyes are may be blue or merle. The Smooth Collies’ coat is one-inch long and requires little grooming.
| Size | Large |
| Colour | The Smooth Collie comes in three distinct colours: Sable & White, Tricolour and Blue Merle |
| Coat Length | Short Medium |
| 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 |
All Collies’ both Rough and Smooth are prone to eye problems such as Collie Eye Anomaly and Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). Collies’ are also susceptible to Hip Dysplasis and Epilepsy. Dwarfism (Pituitary), Sebaceous adenitis (Skin), Hypothyroidism (Endocrine), Cataracts.
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Feeding & Ownership
The breeder will give you a diet sheet for your puppy which should be followed. As adults, Collies are an easy breed to feed as they are not fussy eaters.
| Food Cost | $15 to $20 |
Personality
The Smooth Collie is a noble, highly intelligent dog. They are sensitive, loyal and easy to train. They are usually good with other pets and friendly with other dogs. Some dogs may display herding behaviour when they are puppies, such as nipping at people's heels and trying to herd them. With regular and constant training they can to be taught not to herd humans.
| Intelligence | Smooth Collies’ are very intelligent and eager to work and learn, making them very easy to train. However without regular and consistent training they may become stubborn and indolent. |
| Energy | High |
| Suitability for Children | High |
| Tendency to Bark | High |
| Overall Exercise Requirement | Free-running should be given, allowing them time to play with and retrieve a ball, this will them keep them in good physical and mental condition. Smooth Collies’ are excellent competitors, in agility trials and fly ball competitions. |
| Suitability as a Guard Dog | Medium |
| Ease of Transportation | High |
| Level of Aggression | Low Medium |
| Other Animal Compatibility | High |
Grooming
The Smooth variety has a one-inch coat and should be brushed once a week and bathed every two weeks in the warmer months and once a month in the colder months
| Grooming Requirements | Once a week |
| Amount of Hair Shed | Moderate |
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