Collie (Rough)
The Good
- Friendliness and loyalty
- Love for children
- Luxurious appearance
- Popularity
- Trainability and intelligence
The Real
- High activity levels
- Heavy shedding
- Tendency to bark
- Can be cunning
- Struggles with being alone
Gallery
Breed Overview
The Rough Collie is one of Australia's most beloved family dogs, and it's easy to see why. These elegant, medium to large dogs combine stunning good looks with genuine warmth and intelligence that makes them perfect companions for Australian families. Standing 51-61 cm tall and weighing between 15.8-34 kg, they're substantial enough to keep up with active kids but gentle enough to be trusted completely.
What really sets Rough Collies apart is their incredible bond with children - they're naturally protective without being aggressive, and seem to instinctively understand how to interact with little ones. You'll often see them at school pickup points across Sydney and Melbourne, patiently waiting with their families.
Their famous double coat isn't just for show - it actually helps them handle Australia's varied climate reasonably well, though they'll appreciate air conditioning during those scorching Perth summers. The coat comes in beautiful combinations of sable and white, tricolor, blue merle, or white, each more stunning than the last.
These dogs are proper athletes too. Originally bred for herding sheep in the Scottish Highlands, they've got energy to burn and intelligence to spare. They're equally happy joining you for weekend hikes in the Blue Mountains or settling in for a Netflix session on the couch - they're the ultimate "go when you go, stop when you stop" companions.
History
History
The Rough Collie's story begins in the rugged Scottish Highlands, where these dogs earned their keep herding sheep across challenging terrain. Their ancestors likely arrived during Roman times and mixed with local British dogs, eventually developing into the working dogs we know today.
The breed's transformation from working dog to beloved family pet happened thanks to an unlikely royal fan - Queen Victoria. During her extended stays at Balmoral Castle in the 1860s, she fell head over heels for the local herding dogs and brought several back to England. Once the Queen endorsed them, Collies became the must-have dog of Victorian society practically overnight.
This royal seal of approval changed everything for the breed. Suddenly, breeders focused more on creating beautiful show dogs than capable workers, though thankfully most Collies retained their herding instincts. The breed was officially recognised in 1885 and continued gaining popularity through the early 1900s.
The real explosion in popularity came with the Lassie stories, films, and TV shows starting in the 1940s. Eric Knight's novel "Lassie Come-Home" introduced the world to the heroic, intelligent Collie, and the subsequent movies and TV series made them household names globally.
Today's Rough Collies are the refined descendants of those original Scottish workers, bred for nearly 150 years to be the perfect family companions while maintaining their natural intelligence and gentle temperament.
Traits & Characteristics
Collie (Rough) characteristics and temperament traits.
Caring Guide
Rough Collies are generally healthy dogs with good longevity, but like all breeds, they're prone to certain genetic conditions that potential Australian owners should understand. The good news is that responsible breeders test for most of these issues, giving you the best chance of a healthy companion.
The most significant concern is Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA), an inherited condition affecting the eye's structure that can lead to vision problems or blindness. Puppies should be examined by a veterinary ophthalmologist at 5-6 weeks old - this is non-negotiable when choosing your pup.
Another important condition is the MDR1 gene mutation, which affects how Collies process certain medications. Dogs with this mutation can have severe reactions to common drugs, so genetic testing is crucial. Always inform your Australian vet about your Collie's MDR1 status - it could save their life during routine procedures.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) is another eye condition that can cause blindness, while Dermatomyositis affects the skin and muscles, causing hair loss and scaling. Both conditions have genetic tests available.
Like many large breeds, Collies can develop hip dysplasia and bloat (gastric torsion). Bloat is particularly dangerous and requires immediate veterinary attention. You can reduce the risk by feeding smaller, frequent meals and avoiding exercise immediately after eating.
Regular health checks with your Australian vet, keeping up with vaccinations, and maintaining good parasite prevention will help ensure your Collie lives their full 12-14 year lifespan happily and healthily.
Feeding your Rough Collie properly is crucial for maintaining their health, energy levels, and that gorgeous coat. These active dogs need high-quality nutrition, but there are some breed-specific considerations that Australian owners should know about.
Choose a premium large-breed dog food from reputable companies - the investment in quality nutrition pays off in better health and lower vet bills down the track. Many Collie experts recommend avoiding foods containing corn or soy, as some dogs seem sensitive to these ingredients, though this varies between individuals.
Bloat is a serious concern for Collies, so divide their daily food allowance into two or three smaller meals rather than one large feeding. This reduces the risk significantly. Avoid vigorous exercise for at least an hour after meals, and consider using a slow-feed bowl if your Collie tends to wolf down their food.
A typical adult Collie weighing 25-30kg needs about 1,200-1,500 calories daily, but this varies enormously based on activity level. Working dogs or those competing in agility might need up to 2,000 calories, while couch potatoes might need less than 1,000. Monitor your dog's body condition and adjust portions accordingly.
Fresh water should always be available - active Collies can drink 60-120ml per kilogram of body weight daily, more in Australia's hot climate. During Perth summers or Brisbane's humid weather, increase water availability and consider adding wet food to help with hydration.
Supplements like omega-3 fatty acids can help maintain that stunning coat, while glucosamine supports joint health as they age. Always discuss supplements with your Australian vet first.
That magnificent Rough Collie coat is absolutely stunning, but it does require commitment - think of it as the price of admission to owning one of the most beautiful dogs in the world. The good news is that with the right approach, grooming becomes a bonding experience you'll both enjoy.
During normal times, weekly brushing sessions will keep your Collie looking spectacular. Use a good-quality slicker brush and work systematically through the coat, paying special attention to areas that mat easily - behind the ears, under the elbows, and where the legs meet the body. The coarse outer coat actually resists matting quite well, but the fluffy undercoat needs attention.
Twice a year, your Collie will "blow" their undercoat - and when Aussie owners say it's like having a sheep explosion in your house, they're not exaggerating! During these periods, daily brushing is essential, and many owners book professional grooming sessions to help strip out the loose undercoat. A high-quality vacuum cleaner isn't optional - it's survival equipment.
Bathing is only needed every few months unless your dog gets particularly dirty. Their coat naturally repels dirt, so often a good brush-out once they're dry will remove most mud and debris. Use a shampoo designed for double coats that won't soften the texture too much.
Regular nail trims, ear cleaning, and dental care round out the grooming routine. In Australia's tick-prone areas, daily checks during grooming sessions can help spot these dangerous parasites early. The time investment is worth it - a well-groomed Collie is absolutely magnificent and turns heads wherever they go.
Rough Collies are brilliant students who genuinely enjoy learning, making them one of the easier breeds to train - if you understand their sensitive nature. These dogs want nothing more than to please their families, but they respond best to positive, gentle training methods that respect their somewhat delicate temperament.
Start socialisation early to help overcome their natural shyness around strangers. Take your Collie puppy to busy places like weekend markets in Melbourne or beachside cafes on the Gold Coast, but introduce new experiences gradually. A well-socialised Collie is confident and outgoing, while an under-socialised one can become overly timid.
These dogs excel at obedience, agility, and herding trials - activities that are popular across Australian dog sports clubs. Their intelligence means they pick up commands quickly, but they can also get bored with repetitive training. Keep sessions interesting and varied, and always end on a positive note.
Exercise-wise, Collies need about an hour of good activity daily. They're perfect companions for morning jogs along Sydney's coastal paths or weekend hikes in the Grampians. A tired Collie is a good Collie - without adequate exercise, they can become vocal and destructive.
Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise. Puzzle toys, training sessions, and games like hide-and-seek keep their clever minds occupied. Many Australian Collie owners find their dogs love car trips and camping adventures - they're excellent travel companions who adapt well to new environments.
Remember, these dogs were bred to work closely with humans all day, so they don't cope well with being left alone for long periods.
Who is an ideal owner?
Rough Collies aren't for everyone, but for the right Australian families, they're absolutely perfect. These dogs thrive with owners who understand their need for companionship and mental stimulation, and who have the time to invest in their social and emotional development.
The ideal Collie owner has a reasonably active lifestyle - you don't need to be a marathon runner, but regular walks, weekend adventures, and family activities are important. They're perfect for families with children, as their gentle, protective nature makes them excellent companions for kids of all ages. You'll often see them at school sports days across Australia, calmly watching the action while keeping an eye on "their" children.
These dogs suit both suburban houses with secure yards and apartments, provided their exercise needs are met. In cities like Melbourne or Brisbane, many Collies live happily in units with owners who provide adequate daily walks and mental stimulation. However, if you're working long hours away from home regularly, a Collie probably isn't the right choice - they form strong bonds and can become anxious when left alone for extended periods.
First-time dog owners often do well with Collies, as they're naturally well-behaved and eager to please. However, you'll need patience during the grooming learning curve and commitment to their exercise needs. FIFO workers or people who travel frequently for work should consider other breeds, as Collies don't adapt well to constantly changing routines or temporary caregivers.
If you love the idea of a dog who's genuinely interested in being part of your family's daily life, who'll greet you like a long-lost friend every day, and who'll be your loyal companion for 12-14 years, a Rough Collie might just be your perfect match.
Interesting facts about the Collie (Rough)
Interesting Fact
The Collie Club of America, organised in 1886, was the second parent club to join the American Kennel Club (AKC)
Interesting Fact
The earliest illustrations of Collies appear in woodcuts from around 1800 in Thomas Bewick's "History of Quadrupeds"
Interesting Fact
The famous Lassie was played by a male Rough Collie named Pal in the original 1943 MGM film
Interesting Fact
Blue merle Collies were originally called "tortoise shell" to describe their distinctive colouring
FAQ
Absolutely! Collies are fantastic family dogs with a natural affinity for children. They're gentle, protective without being aggressive, and form strong bonds with all family members. However, they do need proper training and socialisation from a young age to become well-rounded adults.
Collies are exceptionally intelligent dogs that are easy to train and eager to learn. They pick up commands quickly and excel at obedience, agility, and other dog sports. Their intelligence means they need mental stimulation to prevent boredom.
The price varies significantly by location and breeder quality. Well-bred Collies from reputable Australian breeders typically cost between $1,500-$3,000, though show-quality dogs can cost more. Rescue Collies are a more affordable option and often make wonderful pets.
Yes, Collies are heavy shedders year-round and "blow" their undercoat twice annually. During shedding seasons, you'll need to brush daily and invest in a good vacuum cleaner. Regular grooming helps manage the shedding but won't eliminate it.
Collies can adapt to apartment living in Australian cities if their exercise needs are met. They need at least an hour of daily exercise and mental stimulation. A tired, well-exercised Collie is generally calm indoors, but they do best with access to outdoor space.
Generally yes, Collies get along well with other animals when properly socialised. However, some same-sex rivalry can occur between dogs. Their herding instincts might lead them to chase or "herd" smaller pets initially.
Collies can be quite vocal, especially when bored or left alone for long periods. They have loud voices and will bark to alert their families or express excitement. Training and adequate mental stimulation help manage excessive barking.