Rough Collie Dog Breed Information, Puppies & Breeders 

Are you considering getting a Rough Collie as your next furry companion? If so, you are in for a treat. This breed is known for their intelligence, loyalty, and stunning appearance. Often recognized as the iconic Lassie dog, Rough Collies are a popular choice for families and individuals alike. However, before bringing one home, it is important to understand the breed’s temperament, exercise needs, and grooming requirements to ensure that they are the right fit for your lifestyle. In this article, we will explore what makes Rough Collies such a beloved breed and what you need to know before welcoming one into your home.

Breed Category: Herding
Country of Origin: Scotland
Average Size:56-61 cm
Average Weight:20-34 kg
Average Life Span: 12-14 years
Grooming Requirements: High
Exercise Requirements:Moderate to High

History and Origin

The Rough Collie, also known as the Scottish Collie, is a breed of dog that originated in Scotland. The breed was developed for herding sheep in the Scottish Highlands and was first recognized as a distinct breed in the late 1800s. The Rough Collie is a medium-sized dog with a long, thick coat that comes in a variety of colors, including sable, tricolor, and blue merle. The breed is known for its intelligence, loyalty, and gentle nature, and has become a popular family pet and show dog around the world.

The history of the Rough Collie can be traced back to the 18th century, when sheep farming became a major industry in Scotland. The breed was developed by crossing local herding dogs with imported breeds, such as the Borzoi and the Greyhound, to create a dog that was fast, agile, and able to work in the rugged terrain of the Scottish Highlands. The Rough Collie was also used as a guard dog and as a companion for the shepherds who worked with them.

The first Rough Collies were shown in Scotland in the late 1800s, and the breed quickly gained popularity among dog enthusiasts. The breed was first recognized by the Kennel Club in 1886, and by the American Kennel Club in 1888. The Rough Collie became even more popular in the early 1900s, thanks in part to the success of the fictional character Lassie, a Rough Collie who starred in books, movies, and television shows.

During World War II, the Rough Collie faced a decline in popularity, as many breeders were forced to stop breeding due to the war effort. However, the breed made a comeback in the post-war years, and today is one of the most popular breeds in the world. The Rough Collie is still used as a herding dog in some parts of the world, but is more commonly kept as a family pet or show dog.

In recent years, the Rough Collie has faced some health issues, including hip dysplasia, eye problems, and skin allergies. However, responsible breeding practices and advances in veterinary medicine have helped to address these issues, and the breed remains a beloved companion for many families around the world. The Rough Collie is also still a popular show dog, and has won numerous awards and accolades

Size and Breed Category

The Rough Collie is a medium to large-sized dog breed that is known for its long and thick coat. They are a herding breed that originated in Scotland and were originally used to herd sheep and cattle. The breed is known for its intelligence, loyalty, and gentle nature, making them a popular choice as a family pet.

In terms of size, the Rough Collie typically stands between 56-61cm tall at the shoulder and weighs between 20-34kg. They have a long, lean body with a broad chest and a slightly tapered tail. Their coat is thick and comes in a variety of colours, including sable and white, tricolour, blue merle, and white. The breed requires regular grooming to keep their coat in good condition, and they are known for shedding heavily twice a year. Overall, the Rough Collie is a beautiful and elegant breed that is well-suited to life as a family pet or working dog.

Fur Length and Colour

The fur of the Rough Collie is one of its most distinctive features. It is a double coat, with a thick, soft undercoat and a longer, coarser outer coat. The fur is typically around 5-7cm in length, although it can be longer on the mane, chest and legs. The fur is also quite dense, which helps to protect the dog from the elements. The colour of the fur can vary, but the most common colours are sable and white, tricolour (black, white and tan), and blue merle (a mix of grey, black and white). The fur is usually quite straight, although it can be slightly wavy on the back and tail. Overall, the fur of the Rough Collie is a key part of its appearance and helps to give the breed its distinctive look.

The colour of the Rough Collie’s fur can vary quite a bit, but there are some common patterns. Sable and white is the most common colour, with a golden or reddish-brown base and white markings on the chest, legs and face. Tricolour dogs have a black base with white markings and tan points on the face and legs. Blue merle dogs have a grey base with black and white markings, and can also have tan points. The fur can also have some variation in shading, with some dogs having darker or lighter patches. The fur is usually quite shiny and healthy-looking, and requires regular grooming to keep it in good condition. Overall, the colour of the Rough Collie’s fur is an important part of its appearance and helps to make it a very attractive breed.

Termperament and Trainability

Rough Collies are known for their gentle and affectionate temperament. They are loyal and devoted to their owners, making them excellent family pets. They are also known for their intelligence and sensitivity, which makes them easy to train. However, they can be sensitive to harsh training methods, so positive reinforcement is recommended. Rough Collies are also known for their strong herding instincts, which can sometimes lead to them trying to herd other animals or even people. It is important to socialize them from a young age to prevent any unwanted behavior.

In terms of trainability, Rough Collies are highly trainable and excel in obedience and agility competitions. They are quick learners and enjoy learning new tricks and commands. However, they can be stubborn at times, so patience and consistency are key when training them. Rough Collies also require mental stimulation, so incorporating training into their daily routine can help keep them mentally stimulated and prevent boredom. Overall, Rough Collies are a highly trainable breed that thrives on positive reinforcement and mental stimulation.

Known Health Conditions

Rough Collies are a breed of dog that are prone to certain health conditions. One of the most common health issues that Rough Collies face is Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA). This is a genetic condition that affects the development of the eye and can lead to vision impairment or blindness. CEA is usually detected in puppies between the ages of 6 and 8 weeks old through a veterinary eye exam. While there is no cure for CEA, early detection can help prevent the condition from worsening. Rough Collies may also be prone to other eye conditions such as progressive retinal atrophy and cataracts.

Another health condition that Rough Collies may face is hip dysplasia. This is a genetic condition that affects the hip joint and can lead to pain, lameness, and arthritis. Hip dysplasia is caused by an abnormal development of the hip joint and can be worsened by environmental factors such as obesity or excessive exercise. Rough Collies may also be prone to other joint conditions such as elbow dysplasia and luxating patella. It is important for Rough Collie owners to monitor their dog’s weight and exercise levels and to have regular veterinary check-ups to detect and manage any potential health issues.

Openness to Strangers

Rough Collies are known for their friendly and welcoming nature towards strangers. They are a breed that is naturally sociable and enjoys the company of people. When meeting new people, they are often eager to greet them with a wagging tail and a gentle nuzzle. This makes them an excellent choice for families with children or those who enjoy having guests over.

Their openness to strangers also makes them great therapy dogs. They are often used in hospitals and nursing homes to provide comfort and companionship to patients. Their calm and gentle demeanor helps to put people at ease, and they are known to have a calming effect on those around them. Overall, the Rough Collie’s friendly and welcoming nature makes them a beloved breed among dog owners and a valuable asset in many different settings.

Playfulness Level

The Rough Collie is a highly playful breed of dog that loves to engage in various activities with their owners. They are known for their energetic and lively nature, which makes them an excellent companion for families with children. The Rough Collie is always up for a game of fetch or a run in the park, and they thrive on physical activity. They are also highly intelligent and enjoy learning new tricks and commands, making them an ideal candidate for obedience training. Overall, the Rough Collie’s playful nature makes them a joy to be around and a great addition to any household.

Despite their playful nature, the Rough Collie is also known for their gentle and affectionate personality. They are loyal and devoted to their owners, and they love nothing more than spending time with their family. They are also highly sensitive and intuitive, which makes them excellent therapy dogs. The Rough Collie’s gentle nature makes them a great choice for families with young children or elderly individuals who are looking for a loyal and loving companion. Overall, the Rough Collie’s playful and affectionate personality makes them a wonderful breed of dog to have as a pet.

Suitability as a Pet for Children

Rough Collies are known for their gentle and loyal nature, making them a great choice as a family pet. They are highly intelligent and easy to train, which is ideal for children who want to be involved in their pet’s care. Their thick coat requires regular grooming, which can be a fun activity for children to participate in. Rough Collies are also active dogs and enjoy going for walks and playing outdoors, which can encourage children to be more active as well. Overall, Rough Collies can make wonderful pets for families with children who are willing to provide them with the love and attention they need.

Exercise Needs

Rough Collies are highly active dogs that require regular exercise to maintain their physical and mental health. As a medium-sized breed, they need at least an hour of exercise every day, which can be achieved through a combination of walks, runs, and playtime. Collies are known for their love of outdoor activities, so taking them on hikes or to the park is a great way to keep them engaged and stimulated. It’s important to note that Collies have a strong herding instinct, so they may try to chase after other animals or cars if not properly trained. Therefore, it’s essential to keep them on a leash or in a secure area during exercise.

In addition to physical exercise, Rough Collies also require mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. They are intelligent dogs that thrive on learning new tricks and tasks, so training sessions can be a great way to provide mental stimulation. Interactive toys and puzzles can also keep them entertained and mentally engaged. It’s important to note that Collies are sensitive dogs that respond well to positive reinforcement, so training should always be done in a gentle and patient manner. With proper exercise and mental stimulation, Rough Collies can be happy and healthy companions for many years.

Suitability for a Multi-Pet Family

Rough Collies have a reputation for being friendly and sociable animals. They tend to get along well with other pets, including cats and other dogs. However, as with any breed, individual temperament can vary, and some Rough Collies may be more territorial or dominant than others. It is important to introduce new pets slowly and carefully, and to supervise interactions until you are confident that everyone is getting along.

Housing Requirements

Rough Collies require a spacious and secure living environment that allows them to move around freely. A minimum of 30 square meters of indoor space is recommended for a single dog, with additional outdoor space for exercise and play. The housing should be well-ventilated and insulated, with a comfortable temperature range of 18-22°C. The flooring should be non-slip and easy to clean, with a soft bedding area for rest. Access to fresh water and food should be provided at all times, with regular cleaning and maintenance of the housing to ensure a hygienic environment.

In addition to adequate housing, Rough Collies require daily exercise and mental stimulation to maintain their physical and mental health. A minimum of one hour of outdoor exercise per day is recommended, with opportunities for socialization and play with other dogs. Training and obedience classes can also provide mental stimulation and improve the bond between the dog and owner. Regular veterinary check-ups and vaccinations are essential to ensure the dog’s health and well-being. Overall, providing a suitable housing environment and meeting the exercise and socialization needs of the Rough Collie is essential for a happy and healthy dog.

Summary

Rough Collies make great pets for families who are looking for a loyal and intelligent companion. They are known for their gentle nature and are great with children. They are also highly trainable and excel in obedience and agility competitions. Rough Collies require regular exercise and grooming, but their affectionate and loyal personalities make them a wonderful addition to any household.

Rough Collie Dog FAQS