The Collie Breed of Dog

What is a Collie Dog?

Collie dogs are a herding breed of dog. The collie is a medium-sized dog that is most commonly known for its use as a sheepdog. It is also used in search and rescue, therapy, and as a guard dog. Collie dogs are also known as Collie Scots or Collie Scots Sheepdogs. This is a misnomer as the breed is not from Scotland, nor did it ever herd sheep. It is most common in the United States and Canada, although collie dogs can be found in many countries around the world. The collie dog breed was first developed in Scotland, but the breed is not from Scotland. The breed is commonly thought to have been developed from crosses between Border Collies and other breeds.

Breed Standard

A breed standard is a term used to describe the ideal physical and behavioral characteristics that breeders should work towards in their breeding stock. The American Kennel Club (AKC) breed standard for Collie dogs is as follows: The Collie is a long-coated breed of herding dog. He has a natural nobility that is reflected in his bearing. He is strongly built and well-balanced, with a musculature that is evident without being coarse. He is alert in carriage, and his clever head indicates an inherent sensitivity and reliability. The Collie is a well-balanced dog, not bulky or overdrawn in any part of his frame. He is sound in construction, with no indication of fragile or excessive type. His abundant coat, of moderate length and texture, lies flat against his body.

Key characteristics of Collie Dogs

Well-balanced dog - not bulky or overdrawn in any part of his frame. Strongly built and well-balanced, with a musculature that is evident without being coarse. Alert in carriage and his clever head indicates an inherent sensitivity and reliability. His coat of moderate length and texture lies flat against his body. Long-coated breed of herding dog. Strong head with a wide, level skull and a well-defined stop. Wide-set, intelligent eyes that are dark in color and have a soft, mild expression. Large, well-opened nostrils, a slightly scrolled, wide muzzle, and full and deep jowls.

Coats and colors

The Collie has a coat that is long and soft. It does not require frequent brushing and is low-maintenance for owners, although it does shed moderately year-round. Most Collies come in shades of red, sable (red with black tips on the hairs), or blue merle (a blue-gray color with black and red pigmentation). Collies come in any combination of these colors or with white markings, although red and sable are the most common variants. White markings vary in placement, but collie dogs with white on their feet or chest are particularly desirable.

Temperament

The Collie’s temperament is often described as being “like a sheepdog, only nicer.” While Collies are very intelligent and easily trained, they are also very sensitive and can be easily spooked. Collies are very patient and good with children, but it’s important to socialize them with a variety of people when they’re young. Collies love having a job to do and thrive on mental stimulation. Their tendency to spook easily means that they are not always the best dog for an inexperienced or first-time owner. Their keen sense of smell can also make them excellent trackers, and they may try to track small critters or scents inside the house.

Where to get a Collie Dog?

If you’re interested in getting a Collie dog, it’s best to go to a reputable breeder. A good breeder will ask you lots of questions about your lifestyle (especially if you have children or other pets) before allowing you to take a puppy home. Breeders will screen potential owners to make sure the pup is going to a good home. They’ll also test the pup for common genetic disorders like Hip Dysplasia and eye diseases like Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA). If a breeder doesn’t do all these things, then they’re most likely a puppy mill operator who only cares about quick profit. Avoid these places at all costs, they are abusive and do not care about their dogs’ health or well-being.

Conclusion

Collie dogs are a long-coated breed of herding dog. They have a soft coat that is low maintenance and comes in several different colors. The breed has a sensitive temperament and requires a lot of mental stimulation. These dogs are often used as therapy dogs or as search and rescue dogs. They are particularly good with children and are very patient.