Rough Collie

Origin and History

The Rough Collie (Long-haired Collie) is a herding dog developed in Scotland for herding sheep. It became world-famous through the character "Lassie" and, thanks to its intelligence, loyalty and gentle temperament, has become a beloved family dog.

Appearance and Coat

It has a large, elegant and well-balanced body and a long, refined face. Its thick, long double coat forms an abundant mane around the neck; it comes in colors such as sable and white, tricolor and blue merle. It sheds heavily and needs regular grooming.

Temperament and Personality

The Rough Collie is gentle, loyal and extremely intelligent. It is devoted to its family, patient and protective with children, and not prone to aggression. Soft and sensitive, it senses its owner's mood. Alert and prone to barking, it makes a good watchdog.

Care, Exercise and Training

Its thick, long coat should be brushed a few times a week to prevent matting; it sheds heavily. It needs moderate to high exercise. With its exceptional intelligence and eagerness to please, it responds excellently to training; its sensitive nature calls for gentle training.

Health

Some inherited conditions in the Rough Collie can be screened for with DNA tests: collie eye anomaly (CEA), MDR1 drug sensitivity and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). A skin disease (dermatomyositis) may also occur. Responsible breeding is important. The Rough Collie is ideal for families looking for a gentle, intelligent and loyal family dog who can make time for grooming.