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Rough collie

Welcome to our page dedicated to the breed of dog rough collie!

Here, you will find all the useful information about rough collie. This descriptive profile will allow you to discover the aspects of this breed. You can notably consult information about the average price, monthly and annual upkeep expenses, their health, name ideas, as well as their official recognition by competent authorities.

Explore this page to discover everything you need to know.

Overall description of the breed

The Longhaired Collie is of British origin, created and developed in the United Kingdom, particularly in Scotland, from the 19th century. Used mainly for guarding and driving flocks, the Collie belongs to the number one group of sheepdogs and herding dogs, the result of a cross between the Borzoi and the English Setter. It was brought to the forefront by Queen Victoria of England who had a real passion for this breed of sheepdog.

It was under her reign that the first Collie Club and the first standard were created in two different forms, the Collie Rought and the Collie Smooth in 1881. The television series Lassie popularised the breed worldwide, especially through the adaptation of Eric Knight's novel for television between 1954 and 1974. The Longhaired Collie was recognised by the International Cynological Federation on 13 April 1955, the last update of the official standard in force was published on 8 October 2012.

The Rough Collie is a sturdy, well-balanced, long-legged dog with a light gait and an elegant walk. He is a medium-sized dog, and his size makes him an efficient and particularly agile sheepdog. Nicely built, his lines are harmonious, his body is always longer than it is high, fitting into a rectangle. His topline is straight, broad and slightly rounded at the loins. They are athletic, with well developed muscles and a full chest, accompanied by a narrow and deep chest.

Rather high on legs, these Scottish Shepherds have fine but powerful limbs, all in length, their head is proportional to the rest of their body, their skull is flat and the stop not very marked. The Rought Collie has a long, dense, smooth coat, coupled with a thick undercoat. The coat colours permitted by the breed standard are sable, sable and white, tricolour and blue merle.

The gentle character of the Collie makes it a devoted animal, very pleasant in the family, it is a faithful and tender companion who will know how to make himself loved by all his relatives. Enduring and agile, he will appreciate playful games or intense sporting activities in the company of his owners, spending time each day is a fundamental need for him. Jovial and intelligent by nature, he will perform well in a variety of activities, such as agility, obedience, herding, canicross, etc. He will respond to each of your requests!

Distrustful of people he doesn't know, a good socialization will be necessary to make him less suspicious. In conclusion, the Collie is a deeply gentle companion, remarkably attached to his owners and family, he will seduce all the inhabitants of the house with great ease.

Adult: The Longhaired Collie will weigh approximately 20-28 kg (44-62 lbs) for males and 17-26 kg (37.5-57 lbs) for females, with a height at the withers of approximately 56-61 cm (22-24") for males and 51-56 cm (20-22") for females.

Origins

The Long-haired Collie, also known as the Rough Collie, originates from Scotland. This breed is descended from ancient British shepherd dogs used to guard sheep in the Scottish Highlands. The ancestors of the Long-haired Collie likely descend from shepherd dogs introduced to Britain by the Romans. The breed was refined in the 19th century to meet the needs of local shepherds. The Long-haired Collie is famous for its intelligence, loyalty, and majestic appearance, making it a popular companion and excellent working dog.

History

The history of the long-haired Collie is closely linked to the Scottish landscapes, where it was used as a shepherd dog to drive and protect herds. In the 19th century, the popularity of the breed increased significantly thanks to Queen Victoria, who owned several and made them famous. This royal fame allowed the long-haired Collie to gain popularity not only in the UK but also internationally. In the early 20th century, the breed was standardized and recognized by various canine clubs. Today, the long-haired Collie is appreciated for its beauty, intelligence, and gentle character.

Standard

The standard of the long-haired Collie breed describes a medium-sized, elegant and well-proportioned dog. Males measure between 56 and 61 cm at the withers, while females measure between 51 and 56 cm. Their weight varies from 20 to 34 kg. The coat is long, dense and straight, with a rough texture. Coat colors include sable and white, tricolor and blue merle. The head is long and fine with a flat skull, and the almond-shaped eyes are dark in color, expressing gentleness and intelligence. The ears are semi-erect, adding to their attentive and lively expression.

Physical characteristics

The Long-Haired Collie is a graceful and majestic dog, characterized by its long and luxurious coat. Its head is long and fine with pure lines, tapering towards the muzzle. Its almond-shaped eyes, usually dark in color, convey a sweet and intelligent expression. The ears are semi-erect, contributing to its alert appearance. The long and dense coat provides protection against the weather and adds to its elegant appearance. Colors include sable and white, tricolor, and blue merle. The tail is long and carried low, often with a slight curve at the end.

Character

The long-haired Collie is known for its gentle, affectionate, and intelligent nature. It is very attached to its family and is often protective and attentive. Sociable and friendly, it generally gets along well with children and other pets. Its intelligence and desire to please make it easy to train, although it can sometimes be sensitive to harsh training methods. The long-haired Collie is also vigilant and can be a good watchdog, but without excessive aggressiveness. Its balanced and affectionate nature makes it an excellent companion for active families.

Life expectancy

The life expectancy of the long-haired Collie is generally between 12 and 14 years, although some individuals may live longer with proper care. This longevity is due to its sturdy constitution and relatively good overall health. To maximize its lifespan, it is essential to provide balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and appropriate veterinary care. Regular visits to the vet help monitor and prevent potential illnesses. With proper care, the long-haired Collie can live many healthy and fulfilling years, fully enjoying life.

Exercise and activity needs

The Rough Collie is an active breed that requires a lot of exercise to stay healthy and happy. As a herding dog, it needs regular physical and mental stimulation. Long walks, play sessions, and activities like agility or herding are ideal to meet its needs. A minimum of one hour of exercise per day is recommended. It also enjoys interactive games that stimulate its intelligence. Without enough exercise, the Rough Collie can become bored and develop destructive behaviors. An active and stimulating environment is crucial for its overall well-being.

Recommended diet

The Long-Haired Collie's diet must be balanced and adapted to their specific needs. A diet rich in high-quality proteins from animal sources such as chicken, beef, or fish is essential to support their musculature. Healthy fats and complex carbohydrates, such as brown rice and vegetables, complement their diet. It is recommended to divide their daily ration into two meals to avoid digestive problems. Special attention must be paid to the quality of food to prevent allergies and food intolerances, common in this robust but sensitive breed.

Training and obedience

The Long-haired Collie is an intelligent and eager to please dog, which makes training easier. However, they can also be somewhat sensitive, requiring a gentle but firm approach. Training methods based on positive reinforcement, such as rewards and praise, are particularly effective. It is important to start training from a young age to establish clear rules and expectations. Early socialization is also crucial for developing balanced behaviors and reducing mistrust towards strangers. With patience and perseverance, the Long-haired Collie can excel in obedience and become a well-trained companion.

Behavior with children

The long-haired Collie is known for its excellent behavior with children. It is naturally gentle, patient, and protective, making it an ideal companion for families. This dog loves to participate in family activities and is often very tolerant of noisy children's games. However, as with any interaction between dogs and young children, supervision is recommended to ensure that the games remain safe and respectful. Teaching children to interact properly with the dog strengthens a positive and harmonious relationship. The long-haired Collie is affectionate and quickly forms strong bonds with the children in the family.

Compatibility with Other Animals

The long-haired Collie is generally sociable and gets along well with other pets, including cats and other dogs. Thanks to its friendly and balanced temperament, it can peacefully coexist with different types of animals if it is well socialized from a young age. Progressive and supervised introductions are essential to ensure good harmony. Due to its herding instinct, it may sometimes try to "gather" other animals, but this behavior can be managed with proper training. With patience and adequate socialization, the long-haired Collie can live harmoniously with various pets.

Grooming needs

The Long-haired Collie has a luxuriant coat that requires regular maintenance to stay in good condition. Daily brushing is recommended to remove dead hair and prevent knots and tangles. During shedding periods, more frequent brushing may be necessary. Baths should only be given when the dog is particularly dirty, as too frequent bathing can irritate its skin. It is also crucial to regularly check and clean its ears to prevent infections, brush its teeth for good oral hygiene, and trim its nails to prevent injuries. Regular grooming helps maintain the health and beauty of the Long-haired Collie.

Health

The Rough Collie is generally a healthy breed, but may be prone to certain health conditions. Common health issues include hip dysplasia, eye disorders (such as Collie eye anomaly), and some autoimmune diseases. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and preventive veterinary care are essential to maintaining their health. It is recommended to regularly consult a veterinarian for routine check-ups and monitor any signs of discomfort or illness. Owners should also be attentive to changes in behavior or appetite, which may indicate underlying health problems.

Average price

The price of a long-haired Collie puppy can vary depending on the breeder, lineage and region. In general, it costs between 1,000 and 2,500 euros (1,100 to 2,700 dollars) for a quality puppy from a reputable breeder. This price often includes the first vaccines, deworming and some initial socialization. Serious breeders also provide health guarantees and are often involved in supporting new owners throughout the dog's life. It is essential to choose a responsible breeder to ensure the health and well-being of the puppy.

Expenses

Annual expenses for a long-haired Collie can vary, but an estimated total cost of about 1,000 to 1,500 euros (1,100 to 1,600 dollars) per year can be considered. This budget includes high-quality food, regular veterinary care, grooming products, toys and accessories, and possibly training classes. Preventive care, such as vaccinations and parasite treatments, are essential to maintain the dog's health. Owners should also budget for additional expenses for unforeseen medical needs or specific age-related or health condition-related needs for their dog.

Name ideas

Choosing a name for a long-haired Collie can reflect its elegant and intelligent nature. "Luna" means "moon", symbolizing its gentle and luminous nature. "Max" is short and energetic, perfect for an active dog. "Bella" means "beautiful", simple and classic. "Leo" evokes bravery and strength. "Stella" means "star", for a shining dog. "Charlie" is friendly and sociable. "Duke" recalls their nobility. "Zara" is exotic and elegant. "Milo" is charming and affectionate. "Ellie" is sweet and joyful, suited to their playful temperament.

Legislation and regulation

The Long-Haired Collie is not subject to any particular restrictions in most countries. It is considered as a companion and working dog, free from the restrictions often imposed on certain breeds considered dangerous. Owners must still comply with local regulations regarding registration, vaccination and animal control. In some places, it may be necessary to keep dogs on a leash in public spaces and to respect specific rules in parks and recreation areas. Local research is recommended to ensure compliance.

Official recognition

The Long-Haired Collie is recognized by several international canine organizations, including the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) and the American Kennel Club (AKC). The FCI recognition allows this breed to participate in international dog shows and benefit from worldwide recognition. The official breed club in England, the Collie Club of Great Britain, plays a crucial role in promoting and preserving this unique breed. Other global registries, such as the United Kennel Club (UKC), also recognize the Long-Haired Collie, ensuring standardization of the breed's characteristics on an international scale.

Pedigrees

Collie breeders with long hair typically provide detailed pedigrees for their puppies, tracing the ancestry of several generations. These documents are essential to ensure the purity of the breed and verify the absence of hereditary health problems. A well-documented pedigree may include information on working titles, health tests, and honors of the ancestors. Potential owners should always ask to see the pedigree before buying a puppy and make sure the breeder follows ethical and responsible breeding practices, aiming to maintain the quality and health of the breed.

Destination and usage

Historically, the Rough Collie has been primarily used for herding work, guarding and driving flocks of sheep in the Scottish and English landscapes. Today, in addition to its working skills, it is also appreciated as a companion dog for its affectionate and loyal temperament. The Rough Collie is also successful in various canine activities and sports, such as agility, obedience and herding, thanks to its intelligence and agility. It is suitable for active families who can meet its exercise and mental stimulation needs, while enjoying its pleasant and faithful company.

Prohibitions

The long-haired Collie is generally not subject to specific bans in most countries. Unlike some breeds considered dangerous or potentially aggressive, the long-haired Collie is widely accepted and is not classified in restricted dog categories. However, owners are always advised to check local laws regarding dogs before traveling or moving with their pet. Some areas may have specific regulations on breeds or particular requirements for large dogs, although the long-haired Collie, with its balanced temperament, is rarely affected.

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