Collie

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Collies began tending sheep in Scotland and northern England hundreds of years ago. Some believe they were called "coaly" dogs because their coats were mostly black as coal, with white. The name gradually became "Collie." Since then, writer Albert Payson Terhune's Collie stories and the Lassie movies have firmly established this breed as one of the most beloved and loyal of dogs.

Collies are smart dogs with natural herding and protecting abilities. Like all working dogs, Collies need organized activities to thrive. Trained with a gentle, loving hand, they will learn quickly and happily.

Collies are active, proud, and cautious. The Collie will be content in the country or the city, as long as he has family companionship. The Collie listens to people and understands their moods; they are especially fond of children. Collies come in rough (long) or smooth (short) coats. Both require daily brushing when shedding.

Excerpts from the Standard

General Appearance: A strong, responsive, active dog; graceful and fast, with high
intelligence. Impressive.

Size, Proportion, and Substance:Height--males, 24 to 26 inches at withers; females, 22 to 24 inches. Weight--males, 60 to 75 pounds; females, 50 to 65 pounds.

Fun Facts

Two men once wanted to buy a Collie named Shep, who worked herding sheep on a Missouri farm. But first they wanted to test the dog's abilities. While Shep was leading the sheep to the yard, the farmer, when Shep couldn't see him, took one of the sheep into the woods and tied it to a tree. When the gate to the farmyard was opened for the sheep to go in, Shep, as always, watched them carefully. As the last sheep entered, Shep immediately became agitated. He dashed out into the countryside and quickly located the sheep hidden in the woods. The men were impressed and offered a large amount of money for the dog. "No," said the farmer smiling. "I'd never part with Shep. I just wanted you to see why."

Breed Profile

American Kennel Club
Group:: Herding
Size:: Large
Origin:: British Isles
Color:: Black, Tan, Brown, White, Grey

Collies are smart, protective and love to work. They enjoy training and are happy in the city or country as long as they get to spend a lot time with their families. They especially like children.

Articles

Grooming Needs By Coat Type: Long Coat

The maintenance for these dogs include everyday grooming and a trim on a regular basis. More »
Dog Breeds in the Herding Group

Herding dogs have been prized by shepherds and farmers for centuries. They are quick, strong, and highly intelligent. More »

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…mean, I do love my Sheltie , but I think part of the fun for me is that he is NOT exactly the same as my last dog, a shepherd collie mix. To each his own. As for cat tales this week, the word is if you're thinking about traveling with your pet , don More…

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…and the chase began anew, with Sumner doing best â border collie gone badâ impersonation and Zeke acting as wingman. Trust me, I to stop theand the chase began anew, with Sumner doing best â border collie gone badâ impersonation and Zeke acting as wingman. Trust More…

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…that he is NOT exactly the same as my last dog, a shepherd collie mix. To each his own. As for cat tales this week, the wordthat he is NOT exactly the same as my last dog, a shepherd collie mix. To each his own. As for cat tales this week, the word More…

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