Rough Collie

The Collie, a sheep and cattle dog from Scotland and England, has been beautified, made more majestic and increased in size during the past 100 years. He is one of America's favorite dogs and oldest residents, usually setting the popularity pace among the workers since about 1880.

The breed comes in two varieties—the rough coated, by far the more popular, and a smooth that differs in that the coat is short, dense and flat. It is probable that the smooths were developed in northern England as a cattle-driving dog, the rough-coated in northern Scotland as a shepherd's dog whose long, harsh coat was more suitable to the climate.

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These dogs were about the same in form as today's but smaller, measuring about 14 inches at the shoulder, and with a broader and shorter head. About 10 inches have been added to the modern dog's stature (the maximum height is now 24 inches) and a nobility of bearing and expression infused that makes the Collie so appealing.

The breed probably had its beginnings in the sheepdogs of Rome, coming to Britain with the invading Romans. By 1886 it had reached its present size, with refinements coming since then. Queen Victoria did much to publicize the dog when she visited Balmoral in the early 1860s, saw specimens of the rough-coated variety and liked them. When organized dog shows began in England, Collies were in them. They were very popular at American shows in the '80s. 

The name may come either from an old variety of black-legged Scottish sheep, the “Colley," or from “coally” since the early dogs were dark or black.

Characteristic of Rough Collie

Very responsive to training, makes good obedience dog; very good with children; good watchdog; loyal and affectionate.

Color: Sable and white; tri-color (black with white markings and tan shadings); blue merle (mottled or marbled blue-gray, with white markings); and white (white with sable; tri-color or blue-merle markings).

Height: Dog 24-26 in; bitch 22-24 in

Weight: Dog 60-75 lb; bitch 50-65 lb

Coat: Rough Collie - abundant, except on head and legs; outer coat is straight and harsh to touch, undercoat soft and furry. The rough collie needs extra attention to the underbody and inside of the legs. 

Exercise: Needs regular steady exercise 

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