The Collie is a wonderful family dog. They come in two varieties, smooth coated and rough coated. They are generally good with kids and other animals and love their adopted family. The most famous Collie is Lassie. They may not be suitable for an apartment as they need room to exercise. A properly fenced in yard would be ideal.

*Approximate Adult Size. The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the male Collie is 24 to 26 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 60 to 75 pounds. The female ranges from 22 to 24 inches to the withers and 50 to 65 pounds.

*Special Health Considerations. Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the Collie is no exception. Be on the look out for Progressive Retinal Atrophy (inherited disease of the retina that can cause vision loss and blindness), canine hip dysplasia (genetic based looseness in the hip joint that can lead to arthritis pain and lameness), and they can be drug sensitive.

This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.

She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.

*Grooming. The Collie comes in two varieties, smooth and rough. In general, the outer coat is harsh to touch and straight. The inner coat is soft and dense. She is prone to shed and should be brushed regularly. Brushing will help her maintain a clean and healthy coat, avoid mats and help you keep a closer eye on her health and strengthen your emotional bond with her.

Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.

Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet. Generally a guillotine type trimmer is the best for this chore and competent instructions to accomplish this can be found on the net.

*Life Span. The Collie can live between 12 and 14 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.

*History. The Collie comes from the Scottish Lowlands as a sheepdog. They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1885.

Some Registries:

*Collie Club of America

*UKC United Kennel Club

*NKC National Kennel Club

*CKC Continental Kennel Club

*APRI Americas Pet Registry Inc.

*AKC American Kennel Club

*FCI Federation Cynologique Internationale

*NZKC New Zealand Kennel Club

*KCGB = Kennel Club of Great Britain

*ANKC = Australian National Kennel Club

*ACR = American Canine Registry

Litter Size: 6 to 10 Collie puppies

Category: Herding.

Terms To Describe: Intelligent, noble, kind, sensitive, loyal, trains easily, playful, gentle, friendly,

*SPECIAL GOOD POINTS

Good watch dog.

Easy to housebreak.

Very obedient.

Highly intelligent.

Can be protective of children.

A high desire to please.

Easy to train.

*SPECIAL BAD POINTS

Poor guard dog.

Tend to shed.

May suffer in hot weather.

Nose may sunburn.

Puppies may nip at heels, going back to herding instinct.

Can be a barker.

A heavy shedder.

Do not have a strong fighting disposition.

*Other Names Known By: Scottish Collie, Lassie Dog, Scotch Collie

*Every dog is an individual so not everything in this information may be correct for your dog. This information is meant as a good faith guideline only.