Is the Collie a Dog for You?

Collies are divided into two categories: Rough and Smooth. Back in the days when Collies were working dogs the Roughs were the ones that guarded livestock in the pasture, while the Smoothes were the ones that mostly drove the livestock to market.

Collies first appeared in the United States show rings in 1877. It was not a popular breed with Americans at this time so there were only a few collies to be shown. However, the following year Queen Victoria sent two of her Collies to the United States to be shown and the popularity of these dogs increased greatly, especially among the wealthy and socially elite.

The Collie is a large dog, but not overpowering. The male stands 24 to 26 inches at the shoulder and weighs 60 to 70 pounds. The female stands 22 to 24 inches at the shoulder and weighs 50 to 65 pounds.

If you are considering getting a Collie, there are several breed character traits you must consider carefully.

Collies are devoted family dogs, good with kids, and good watch dogs. However, they need regular exercise or they will become bored. And a bored Collie will bark a lot and chew on things.

Collies shed a lot. Their hair will be everywhere.

Collies have two coats of hair. The outer coat can be harsh to the touch, while the undercoat consists of soft, furry hairs that grow close together. It will be necessary to thoroughly brush your Collie at least once a week to keep his coat from becoming a matted mess.

Collies like to be around people and need socialization. Collies that are left alone too much will get bored, and remember a bored Collie barks a lot and chews. Also a Collie that doesn't get enough socialization will become shy and fearful.

Collies are also sensitive to stress, loud voices, and sudden movements. So if there is a lot of yelling and good-natured bickering in your household, think twice about getting a Collie.

Another trait to keep in mind is that Collies are prone to eye diseases that can lead to blindness.

When deciding to get a dog give careful consideration to all their traits and don't go just by the looks of the dog or the image you have in your mind of a particular breed. Of course their is always the option of going to a local animal shelter and getting a mutt.