Collies, known for their intelligence and loyalty, are a diverse and captivating group of dog breeds that have charmed pet owners for generations. Among these, the seven primary types of Collie breeds each possess unique characteristics and appeal. From the ever-popular Rough Collie, immortalized by Lassie, to the agile Border Collie, renowned for its herding prowess, these dogs bring both companionship and functionality to households. Delve into the world of Collies, where each breed offers distinct traits, making them wonderful family pets and skilled working dogs. Discover what makes these seven Collie breeds truly stand out.
Collies aren’t just dogs—they’re legends wrapped in fur! From the rugged Scottish Highlands to the bustling fields of Australia, these herding dogs have been winning hearts and herding sheep for centuries. With so many different breeds to choose from, there’s a Collie to match every personality and lifestyle.
Think of them as the Swiss Army knives of the dog world—smart, loyal, and versatile. Whether it’s the glamorous Rough Collie or the tireless Australian Kelpie, each breed has its own flair. They’re not just working dogs; they’re affectionate family members, ready to charm you with their wit and wagging tails.
So, what makes these seven types of Collies so special? We’re talking about dogs that can outthink sheep, outshine other breeds, and still have energy left for cuddles. Let’s take a closer look at these canine icons and why they’ve earned a permanent spot in our hearts!
Types of Collies
1. Rough Collie
|
Life Span |
12–14 years |
|
Origin |
Scottish Highlands |
|
History |
Famous for herding sheep; popularized by Queen Victoria and the iconic Lassie. |
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Barking |
Moderate to frequent; a vocal watchdog. |
Rough Collies are the movie stars of the collie dog breeds—graceful, intelligent, and unmistakably gorgeous. Originally bred in the rugged Scottish Highlands, these medium-sized dogs (weighing around 50–75 lbs and standing up to 26 inches tall) boast luxurious flowing locks that turn heads everywhere. Think “famous collie” like Lassie, and you’ve got the picture!
According to Purina, underneath that glamorous double coat lies a herding genius. Rough Collies were bred to keep Scottish black-faced sheep in line and their instincts make them excellent family dogs. They’re affectionate, loyal, and highly intelligent—traits that make them eager to please and easy to train.
Be prepared for some grooming! Those flowing locks require brushing several times a week to stay tangle-free. While they’re not overly high-energy, daily exercises like brisk walks or some playtime keep their minds busy and prevent boredom. Trust me, a bored Rough Collie is a recipe for mischief!
2. Smooth Collie
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Life Span |
10–13 years |
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Origin |
Northern England |
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History |
A short-haired variant of the true Collie breed, favored for its practicality in herding. |
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Barking |
Moderate; protective but not overly vocal. |
Smooth Collies are like the chic, low-maintenance cousins of Rough Collies. With their short hair and sleek coats, they embody elegance without the need for excessive grooming. These herding dogs originated in Northern England, working alongside farmers to manage livestock efficiently. They’re agile, sharp, and always ready to impress.
What sets Smooth Collies apart? Their temperament is as smooth as their coat! They’re calm, affectionate, and great with kids and other pets adds CKC. If you’re looking for excellent family dogs that are easier to care for than their rough-coated relatives, this collie breed is a perfect match.
Smooth Collies thrive on mental stimulation and daily walks. While they’re slightly less high-energy than some other collies, they still require vigorous exercise to stay happy and healthy. Plus, their short-haired coats make cleanup a breeze during shedding season!
3. Border Collie
|
Life Span |
12–15 years |
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Origin |
British Isles |
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History |
Renowned for their unmatched working ability and intelligence; originally bred to herd sheep. |
|
Barking |
Frequent; a vocal herding breed. |
If dogs were awarded PhDs, Border Collies would have diplomas covering every wall. These highly intelligent herding dogs are legends in the canine world for their working ability and boundless energy. Hailing from the British Isles, they were bred to manage livestock across vast terrains, and their herding instincts are second to none.
Border Collies are medium-sized dogs, weighing 30–55 lbs and standing about 20–22 inches tall. They come in various coat types, from smooth coat to rough coat, often in striking patterns like blue merle or with tan markings. Despite their high energy levels, they’re incredibly affectionate and bond deeply with their families.
Don’t underestimate their need for activity! These dogs require vigorous exercise, mental challenges, and canine sports like agility to stay happy. They’re not couch potatoes; they’re problem solvers who thrive on tasks and attention. With proper care, Border Collies are not just pets—they’re partners for life.
4. Bearded Collie
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Life Span |
12–14 years |
|
Origin |
British Isles |
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History |
Known as “working dogs” and related to Polish Lowland Sheepdogs; bred for herding. |
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Barking |
Moderate; communicative but not excessive. |
Bearded Collies, often affectionately called “Beardies,” are the comedians of the collie dog breeds. With their trademark long hair and joyful expressions, these dogs bring charm to any home. Originating in the British Isles and linked to Polish Lowland Sheepdogs, they were originally bred as rugged herding dogs.
Their flowing, rough, and smooth double coat may look high-maintenance, but with quick brushing a few times a week, you’ll keep their grooming needs in check. As per Hillspet Bearded Collies are high-energy animals who love daily walks and playtime, making them ideal companions for active families. They’re also excellent with other animals and kids.
Don’t let their playful nature fool you—they’re intelligent dogs who thrive on mental stimulation. A Bearded Collie that’s easily bored might invent its fun (and trouble). These herding instincts, paired with their eager-to-please attitude, make Beardies a joy to train for canine sports or other activities.
5. Shetland Sheepdog
|
Life Span |
12–14 years |
|
Origin |
Scottish Highlands |
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History |
Miniaturized version of Rough Coated Collies; bred for herding Scottish black-faced sheep. |
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Barking |
High; often vocal as a watchdog. |
Shetland Sheepdogs, or “Shelties,” are the pint-sized prodigies of the collie club. Often mistaken as mini-coated collies, they hail from the Scottish Highlands, where they were bred to herd sheep. Despite their small size (standing 13–16 inches tall), their herding instincts are just as sharp as their larger relatives.
PetMD claims that Shelties are highly intelligent and affectionate, making them excellent family dogs. They’re known for their long coats that come in striking patterns, including blue merle, and require regular daily brushing to manage shedding. While they’re fantastic with other dogs and animals, they do tend to bark at anything unusual.
Energetic and eager to please, Shelties loves agility training and needs daily walks to stay content. Their compact size, combined with their boundless enthusiasm, makes them one of the most versatile and delightful members of the collie dog breeds.
6. Australian Kelpie
|
Life Span |
10–14 years |
|
Origin |
Australia |
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History |
Developed as tireless working dogs for Australian farms. |
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Barking |
Low; barks only when necessary. |
Australian Kelpies are the athletes of the dog breeds world—fast, agile, and endlessly energetic. Originally bred as working dogs on vast Australian farms, these medium-sized dogs weigh 25–45 lbs and are known for their unmatched stamina and herding instincts.
Kelpies are loyal to their families but often prefer to stay busy with tasks. Without vigorous exercise and mental stimulation, they can become easily bored. They are quick learners and thrive in canine sports or any activity requiring problem-solving skills. These dogs are perfect for owners who appreciate their high-energy, no-nonsense working ability.
With a short-haired coat, grooming is minimal—quick brushing during shedding season will do the trick. Australian Kelpies are not couch potatoes; they’re active companions best suited to those who can match their energy levels. Whether herding sheep or conquering agility courses, Kelpies embody the spirit of working dogs.
7. English Shepherd
|
Life Span |
12–15 years |
|
Origin |
United States (from English herding dog stock) |
|
History |
Versatile farm dogs developed in America for herding and guarding. |
|
Barking |
Moderate; protective and alert. |
English Shepherds are like the Swiss Army knife of the collie breed family. Stemming from English sheepdog stock, these dogs were bred in America to be all-purpose farm helpers, excelling at herding animals, guarding livestock, and even babysitting the family puppies!
English Shepherds are medium-sized dogs, standing about 18–23 inches tall, with long coats that come in various patterns. They’re incredibly intelligent, affectionate, and adaptable, making them excellent family dogs. However, they do require daily exercise to keep their minds busy and their bodies healthy.
These dogs are natural problem solvers with a strong working ability, making them ideal for owners who value a true collie breed that can do it all. With quick brushing and a loving home, English Shepherds become not just pets but indispensable members of the family.
Conclusion
The word “Collie” represents a fascinating group of intelligent, loyal, and versatile herding dogs. From the elegant Rough and Smooth Collies to the energetic Border Collie and hardworking Australian Kelpie, these breeds each bring something unique to the table. As the American Kennel Club highlights, collies are some of the most adaptable and beloved dog breeds in the world. Their herding instincts and affectionate nature make them exceptional family pets and working dogs alike.
While we’ve focused on certain types of collies, there are other remarkable breeds worth mentioning. The Old English Sheepdog, with its shaggy coat, and the Polish Lowland Sheepdogs left in rural farms, showcase the diversity among herding dogs. Other honorable mentions include the Collie named McNab and the Belgian Sheepdog—each bred for different tasks and terrains but sharing the same breed group’s dedication to excellence.
These dogs come in different types, coat textures, and energy levels, from the long-haired Sheltie to the smooth-coated Kelpie. Regardless of their grooming needs or shedding season quirks, all collies are united by their intelligence and love for companionship. Even intact females, with careful monitoring of their heat cycle, make wonderful pets for dedicated owners.
Ultimately, whether you’re drawn to the elegance of a Rough Collie or the drive of an English Shepherd, collies remain unmatched in their loyalty and charm. Their enduring legacy, from the most famous collie, Lassie, to working farms and loving homes, ensures they’ll remain a cherished part of the canine world for generations to come.
In conclusion, the seven types of Collie dog breeds each offer distinct characteristics that appeal to a wide range of potential pet owners. From the well-known Rough and Smooth Collies to the intelligent Border Collie and lesser-known variants like the Bearded and Welsh Collies, these breeds are celebrated for their loyalty, intelligence, and herding abilities. Each type brings unique attributes and care requirements, making them suitable for different lifestyles and environments. Whether for companionship, performance, or work, Collies remain versatile and beloved dogs, enriching the lives of families and communities with their gentle nature and keen instincts.