Smooth Collie Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Smooth Collie is the short-coated twin of the Rough Collie, with the same elegant head, kind expression and devoted temperament. It is less common, and appeals to people who love the breed but prefer a simpler coat.

Origins and appearance

Smooth Collies share the same ancestry as Roughs, working as herding and droving dogs in Scotland and northern England. They are large and graceful, with a long, wedge-shaped head, semi-erect ears and a short, dense, flat coat in sable and white, tricolor or blue merle. The undercoat is soft and thick.

Temperament

They are gentle, loyal and sensitive. They bond closely with family and are good with children. They can be reserved with strangers. Many bark to alert. They dislike being left alone and respond poorly to harsh voices.

Exercise

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

Training

They are intelligent and eager. Use positive methods and short sessions. Early socialization helps. Teach a quiet cue. Avoid harsh corrections.

Coat and grooming

The short coat needs weekly brushing, and more during seasonal shedding. See short coat dog grooming guide. Trim nails, clean ears and brush teeth. They need warmth in cold weather.

Health considerations

Topics include:

• MDR1 gene mutation. See MDR1 gene mutation in dogs
• Collie eye anomaly and progressive retinal atrophy
• Bloat. See bloat and GDV in dogs
• Dermatomyositis
• Hip dysplasia. See hip dysplasia in dogs
• Hypothyroidism. See hypothyroidism in dogs

Living with a Smooth Collie

They suit homes with a yard and a family. They need company and gentle handling.

A typical day

A Smooth Collie wants a morning walk, some training, rest, play and an evening outing. They enjoy being near family.

Puppies and the first year

Puppies are sweet and sensitive. Begin socialization, handling and training. See puppy socialization checklist.

Costs and commitment

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

Seasons and travel

They need a coat in winter and shade in summer. They travel well.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include harsh training, leaving the dog alone, skipping socialization and forgetting MDR1 testing before medication.

Choosing a puppy or adult

Ask about MDR1 and eye testing, hip scores and the parents' temperaments. Expect a wait for a puppy.

Same dog, easier coat

For many families, the main appeal is that a Smooth Collie shares the Rough's personality without the daily tangles. Hair still sheds, particularly in spring and autumn, and the short coat offers less protection in rain and cold, so a dog coat can be useful. The grooming routine is simple: brush weekly, wipe paws and check ears and nails.

Sensitivity and training

Because these dogs notice emotions, a calm, consistent household is ideal. Praise generously, correct gently and stay patient. A confident Smooth Collie is a delightful companion, while a frightened one may bark, hide or become anxious.

Is it the right breed for you?

A Smooth Collie suits gentle owners who want a graceful, loyal herding dog with an easier coat. It may not suit those who want a rugged outdoor dog or an independent pet. For the long-coated version, see the Rough Collie.

Why the Smooth Collie is uncommon

Smooth Collies have always been outnumbered by Roughs, partly because of the popularity of stories about heroic Collies and partly because show breeders focused on the glamorous long coat. Today the Smooth is a quiet favorite among people who want a clean-lined, athletic dog. Litters are small, so be ready to join a waiting list and travel to meet the breeder. Joining a collie club is a good way to learn who is breeding sound, healthy dogs.

A note on weather

The short coat offers less protection from cold, wet conditions than the Rough Collie's mane. In winter, a waterproof coat for long walks makes the dog more comfortable, and in summer, shade and water matter just as much.

The takeaway

Smooth Collies are gentle, sensitive and elegant, and they need company, exercise and kind training.