Overview
The Rough Collie began as a working sheepdog in the Scottish Highlands. Today it is best known as a graceful, long-haired family companion, and as the dog many people picture when they think of a loyal movie hero.
It is the same breed as the Smooth Collie except for coat length. It looks like a Shetland Sheepdog but is noticeably larger.
History
Both Rough and Smooth Collies descend from herding dogs of Scotland and Wales, which were crossed with English sheepdogs. Breeders later added elegance, and the Borzoi is often said to have given the long, refined muzzle.
Queen Victoria admired the dogs at Balmoral, and the breed became fashionable. Show breeding changed its look, and in Britain the Border Collie took over serious herding, though in the United States and parts of Europe the Collie is again used as a working and performance dog.
Appearance
The Rough Collie has a long, dense outer coat with a full ruff, feathered legs and a frill on the hindquarters, over a soft undercoat. The head is a blunt, smooth wedge with a rounded muzzle, almond eyes and semi-erect ears that tip forward.
Males stand about 56 to 66 cm and females are around 5 cm shorter. Colours are sable, tricolour, blue merle and colour-headed white.
Temperament
Collies are sweet, sensitive and devoted, and they tend to bond closely with the whole family. They are patient and affectionate with children and usually friendly with other dogs.
They are bright and learn quickly, but respond best to calm, kind training. Some are vocal and enjoy herding family members, and they can be reserved with strangers.
Care and exercise
A Rough Collie needs a good daily walk and some play or training, but is not extreme in its demands. It is happiest living indoors with its people.
The coat needs thorough brushing a couple of times a week to avoid mats, especially behind the ears, and more during heavy seasonal moults.
Health
Collie eye anomaly is common, and progressive retinal atrophy can occur, so eye screening of puppies is advised. Many collies carry the MDR1 gene variant, which causes sensitivity to ivermectin and some other drugs. Other concerns are bloat, epilepsy, hypothyroidism and cyclic neutropenia, which DNA tests can detect.
