The Collie breed
Collie
Rough Collie: the flame-coated Scottish shepherd
The Rough Collie is a large Scottish herding dog with an elegant silhouette and a long mane. Made world-famous by Lassie, it is gentle, loyal and deeply family-oriented.
Origins of the Collie
Native to the Scottish Highlands, the Collie was a rugged herding dog. Queen Victoria fell in love with the breed in the 19th century, making it a prestige dog. The modern standard was fixed in the late 19th century.
Temperament and personality
The Collie is known for:
- A gentle, balanced character
- Great sensitivity and strong attachment
- Sharp intelligence and natural obedience
- Elegant reserve with strangers (without aggression)
It is patient, loyal and surprisingly calm for a herding dog.
Training and socialization
Intelligent and very sensitive, it learns very easily with kindness. Harshness is utterly counterproductive. Standard socialization is enough thanks to its naturally balanced temperament.
Health and care
The Collie has several predispositions:
- MDR1 mutation (drug sensitivity — must be tested!)
- Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA)
- Progressive retinal atrophy
- Hip dysplasia
Its long double coat needs brushing 2–3 times a week (daily during shedding).
The Collie in the family
It is an ideal family dog. Excellent tolerance with children, very good with other animals. Good tolerance of reasonable solitude.
📌 Summary
Elegant, gentle and deeply attached to its family, the Collie is one of the best family dogs in the world — a serene, loyal and patient companion.