Collie
Group: Herding
Lifespan: 8-16 Years
Pups per Litter: 6-10
Average Weight: 50-75 lbs.
Average Height: 22-26 inches
Exercise/Actvity Level: HIgh
Temperment with:
Children 
Other Dogs Other Animals
History
The Collie originated in Scotland. They are a breed of Herding dog for farmers and their sheep. The name itself comes from sheep with black faces that the Collie herds, which are called the “Colley”. There are 2 types of Collie, rough or smooth and both are virtually the same except for their coat length where the rough Collie has a long thick coat, and the smooth Collie has a short thick coat. The Collie was made famous to popular culture as being known as the breed that played “Lassie”.
Traits
The Collie has an extraordinarily high intelligence level making them quick and responsive learners that make perfect working dogs. They also make great family companions as they love children and get along with other dogs and family pets. They are stable and loving companions that only want to please their masters. This breed is more reserved around people they don’t know but will warm up once they become acquainted. The Collie is a friendly breed and will be defensive with family around strangers. This breed is versatile as it can be the family dog and can also be used as a worker in the fields as they have mastered the art of Herding and do this with such ease.
Appearance
Weighing in at 50-75 lbs (23-34 kgs) and averaging 22-26 inches high, the Collie is an elegant looking breed with many distinct features. The face of this dog is long and the muzzle is quite sharp. They have an agile and muscular body. The rough Collie has a long, thick double layered coat where as the smooth Collie has a short, thick coat about 1 inch long. Both types will have a blue merle, tri colour, sable & white, or mostly white with sable. Their ears are pricked upwards and only the tips flop down, and their tail is long and bushy.
Health
The Collie is a hearty breed, being prone to some eye diseases, one of which is Progressive Retinal Atrophy. They are also genetically disposed to Hip Dysplasia, Arthritis, and Lameness may occur in some lines.
Training
The Collie is of the most intelligent breeds of dog and they will be easy to train if the owner is consistent. They can be sensitive so will need to be trained in a gentle manner as they will not excel if they are trained harshly. Collies are also known for being quite easy to housetrain!
Care
The smooth Collie has a low maintenance level, as the coat is only about 1 inch long, so brushing once or twice a week is perfect and bathing is up to the owner as to how often it should be done. The rough Collie is a high maintenance breed as their coat is so long and thick, that it will need daily brushing to prevent tangles or mats. Bathing should be done about once every month or 2 as this breed is a heavy fur shedder.
Breed
This breed is categorized in the Herding Group. They would do well in an apartment if they are exercised daily. This breed loves to run and a yard or access to a park would be perfect. Collies are known for not being able to cope with heat well so when the weather is warmer, they should be cooled off regularly. The average lifespan of the Collie is 8-16 years. They have around 6-10 pups per litter. When obtaining a puppy Collie, keep in mind that every puppy is different and to research your breed before bringing the baby home!
Reference pages for Information:
http://puppydogweb.com/caninebreeds/collies.htm Collie Information
http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/collie.htm Collie Breed Information
http://www.collieclubofamerica.org Collie Club of America
http://www.collienet.com/roughcollie_rescue.htm Collie Rescue
http://www.akc.org/breeds/collie/ Collie AKC Standards
