Collies are very intelligent animals. They have natural herding and protecting abilities and belong to the Herding Group. They need a job to do in order to be well adjusted. They do well with a
firm, but gentle hand. The history of the Collie is somewhat vague, but it is believed that Queen Victoria of England took a liking to this breed and brought some of these sheep dogs back with her while visiting Scotland somewhere around the 1860’s. The Shetland Sheepdog (Sheltie) should not be confused with the Collie. Despite their similarity, they are two distinct breeds. There are two types of Collies – the rough coated and smooth coated. The rough coated Collie has a beautiful, long, thick coat, while the smooth coated Collie has a short, smooth coat. Despite the differences in their coats, they both have all the same breed characteristics. They both have the same coat color varieties: Sable and White, Tri-color, Blue Merle, and White. They have a “natural break” ear; the top 1/4 of the ear “tips” over. However, because of some of the breeding done here in the United States, most of the “natural” tipping has fading through the lines and the ear must be “trained” to tip with tape or skin bond. It can be done and if you are in the show ring, a “tipped” ear is a must according to the show rules… it is part of the Collie “expression”. The Collie thrives on human companionship. They are very proud and elegant looking. It is said that a Collie is always looking over the top of the fence, never under it or through it. It is also said that there is really no difference in temperment between males and females. So, a male “smoothie” shouldn’t hinder your decision. Since they are so intelligent, they are somewhat subborn at times – do not confuse this as being ill-mannered… They are good with children, but need to be trained not to bump into them, since some Collies are very exuberant in their play and need to have boundaries set. They will also “nip” at heels and this too, must be reprimanded as well right from the beginning. Since they are a herding breed, if not trained right from the “get go”, they WILL chase anything that moves fast… like cars, lawnmowers, skate boards, etc. A family acquired a great Collie pup and they lived on a farm… this pup took a liking to chasing the farm trucks and graduated to vehicles on the highway. At first the family thought this was so cute… unfortunately, it became a safety hazard and because they lived on a farm (they couldn’t very well fence in 300 acres), they had to rehome her. It is also said that you get a great Collie from working lines. So, please do your homework and choose your Collie from a reputable breeder. Ask questions, let them know what you want to use your Collie for, and expect them to ask you questions as well. One question I always ask is why did you decide to do this breeding. If they answer because they wanted to see what they would get, then move on to another breeder. Collies are also susceptible to genetic abnormalities, like Collie Eye Anomoly (CEA) and epilipsy. Collies are also very vocal… meaning they sometimes bark a little too much… you can curb this by teaching at a young age and not “encouraging” barking. And by being vocal, they tend to make whining and gurgling noises… it is just part of their personality. They are a very “soft” dog and need training that is firm but gentle, as well as fun. They do well in obedience, but get bored easily. They do look for direction from their human counterparts. I don’t know if this dog is for you, your agency, or for someone you know. You may also try looking into other service agencies, such as a Search and Rescue in your area and let them know you are interested in this breed… network with other canine service agencies. You might even find an older Collie that you bond with right off the bat. Whatever your decision, make it an educated one. Sable & White, Tri-colored or male or female, tipped ears or not, remember, even Lassie had to be trained!
Best of Luck to you.
