The Rough Collie originates from Scotland and Northern England, where it was primarily used for herding sheep in the rugged highlands. This intelligent breed gained worldwide fame in the 19th century when Queen Victoria, during her stay at Balmoral Castle, fell in love with them and brought them into the royal spotlight.
Later, the Rough Collie's popularity soared even further thanks to Lassie, the famous fictional dog from books, TV shows, and movies, who embodied the breed's intelligence, loyalty, and courage. While they are less commonly used as working herders today, Rough Collies have found a cherished role as family companions and show dogs.
The Rough Collie remains a beloved breed across the globe, prized for its gentle temperament, striking appearance, and devotion to its family. It consistently appears in family-friendly breed lists and is a favorite among those seeking a graceful yet highly trainable dog.
While not as numerous as during Lassie's heyday, Rough Collies maintain a dedicated fanbase who treasure their loyalty, beauty, and intelligence.
The Rough Collie is a medium to large-sized breed, distinguished by its flowing coat and elegant expression.
• Height: 22–26 inches (56–66 cm)
• Weight: 50–75 pounds (23–34 kg)
• Build: Graceful yet strong, with an athletic frame
• Coat: Long, straight, and abundant outer coat with a soft, dense undercoat
• Color: Sable and white, tricolor (black, white, and tan), blue merle, and white
• Head: Wedge-shaped with a long, narrow muzzle
• Eyes: Medium, almond-shaped; often dark and expressive
• Ears: Semi-erect; tips fold forward
Their long double coat forms a beautiful mane around the neck and shoulders, giving them a regal, noble appearance.
Rough Collies are gentle, sensitive, and intelligent, often described as "devoted shadows" of their people.
• Affectionate: Deeply attached to family members
• Gentle: Patient and kind, excellent with children
• Protective: Will alert to strangers but rarely aggressive
• Intelligent: Quick learners who enjoy mental stimulation
• Sociable: Friendly with other dogs and pets
Rough Collies thrive on companionship and can become lonely or anxious if left isolated for long periods.
The Rough Collie is a wonderful companion for families, offering beauty, brains, and boundless love.
Ideal for:
• Families with children looking for a patient, protective dog
• First-time dog owners willing to commit to grooming
• Active individuals or households who enjoy outdoor activities
• Those who want an intelligent dog that’s easy to train
Not ideal for:
• Homes unable to commit to regular grooming
• Those seeking a highly independent or aloof breed
• Owners who are away from home for long stretches without dog care
• Exercise: Moderate energy; enjoys daily walks, play, and training activities
• Training: Thrives with positive reinforcement; very responsive and eager to please
• Grooming: High maintenance; requires thorough brushing 2–3 times a week (daily during shedding seasons)
• Living Environment: Adapts well to suburban or rural life; a fenced yard is ideal
• Feeding: Balanced diet suited to a medium to large breed’s energy level
Grooming is a significant commitment with this breed, but their coat is easier to manage than it might appear with regular care.
Rough Collies are generally healthy but can be prone to:
• Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA)
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
• Hip dysplasia
• Dermatomyositis (an autoimmune skin disorder)
• Drug sensitivities (especially to ivermectin)
Regular vet visits, genetic testing, and a quality diet contribute to a Rough Collie's average lifespan of 12–14 years.
• Border Collie: More intense in work drive; Border Collies are highly energetic and task-focused, while Rough Collies are more relaxed and family-oriented.
• Shetland Sheepdog (Sheltie): Similar in looks but smaller; Shelties are often a better fit for smaller living spaces.
• Australian Shepherd: More energetic and demanding; Aussies require more rigorous mental and physical stimulation.
If you want an affectionate, intelligent, and loyal family dog with a flair for beauty and elegance, the Rough Collie could be your perfect companion. Their sweet nature and trainability make them especially suited for homes where they can be cherished family members.
Avoid if you aren't prepared for regular grooming or if you're often away from home without dog care.
Choosing a Rough Collie from a reputable breeder or rescue organization ensures you find a healthy, well-tempered dog. Look for breeders who perform genetic testing for Collie Eye Anomaly and other breed-specific issues.
United Pet Club can also assist with health tracking, microchip registration, breeder recommendations, and international travel documentation for Rough Collies.