Rough Collie Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Rough Collie is an elegant, long-coated herding dog from Scotland, famous around the world as the star of stories about a heroic, faithful dog. In real life it is gentle, sensitive and devoted, and happiest near its family.

Origins and appearance

Collies herded sheep in the Scottish Highlands for centuries. The breed gained fame in the nineteenth century when Queen Victoria admired it, and later through books and films. Rough Collies are large and graceful, with a long, tapering head, a full mane and frill, a profuse double coat in sable and white, tricolor or blue merle and a feathered tail.

Temperament

They are gentle, loyal and eager to please. They bond closely with family and are very good with children. They are sensitive and can be reserved with strangers. Many bark to alert and to herd. They dislike harsh voices and being left alone, and may develop anxiety.

Exercise

They need about an hour of daily exercise, including walks and play. They enjoy herding, agility and obedience. Mental activity matters, too. Use a leash or secure fence.

Training

They are intelligent and highly trainable. Use positive methods and short sessions. Early socialization is important. Teach a quiet cue. Avoid harsh corrections. House training is usually easy. See also how to use treats in dog training.

Coat and grooming

The long double coat needs brushing two or three times a week and daily during seasonal shedding, with special attention behind the ears and on the legs. See double coat dog grooming guide. Do not shave. Trim nails, clean ears and brush teeth.

Health considerations

Topics include:

• MDR1 gene mutation, which can cause drug sensitivity. See MDR1 gene mutation in dogs
• Collie eye anomaly and progressive retinal atrophy
• Bloat. See bloat and GDV in dogs
• Dermatomyositis, a skin and muscle condition
• Hip dysplasia. See hip dysplasia in dogs
• Hypothyroidism. See hypothyroidism in dogs
• Gastric and bowel disease

Living with a Rough Collie

They suit homes with a yard and a family who will brush and play. They do not do well isolated.

A typical day

A Collie wants a morning walk, brushing, training, rest and an evening outing. They like being near family, and often follow children around the house.

Puppies and the first year

Puppies are fluffy and gentle. Begin socialization, handling and grooming. Teach quiet cues early. See puppy socialization checklist.

Costs and commitment

Plan for grooming tools, food and vet care. See dog vet cost guide.

Seasons and travel

They tolerate cold well, but need shade and water in heat. They travel well and enjoy company.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include skipping brushing, shaving the coat, harsh training, leaving the dog alone and ignoring MDR1 testing before medication.

Choosing a puppy or adult

Ask about MDR1 and eye testing, hip scores and the parents' temperaments. Tell any vet about the MDR1 status.

Matting and mud

The Collie's coat is lovely but unforgiving of neglect. Mats form behind the ears, under the legs and along the breeches. A pin brush and metal comb, used in layers down to the skin, prevents most problems. Wet or muddy walks mean towel-drying and a quick comb afterwards, and many owners keep the leg and foot hair trimmed to simplify life.

The gentle giant of the herding group

Rough Collies tend to be calm indoors if their exercise needs are met, and many are good with elderly people and children. Their sensitive nature means they notice tension in the household, so a peaceful routine is part of the care they need.

Is it the right breed for you?

A Rough Collie suits gentle, attentive owners who want a beautiful, loyal companion and will brush regularly. It may not suit those wanting a low-maintenance coat or a very independent dog. For a smaller version, see the Shetland Sheepdog.

The takeaway

Rough Collies are gentle, graceful and devoted, and they need grooming, company and kind training.