The Smooth Collie shares its ancestry with the Rough Collie, both descending from herding dogs used in Scotland and northern England for centuries. While the Rough Collie gained more fame in pop culture (e.g., Lassie), the Smooth Collie developed as a more practical, short-coated version ideal for harsher working environments.
Queen Victoria’s fondness for Collies helped popularize the breed in the 19th century, and breeders began refining both coat types — smooth and rough — for form and function. While the Smooth Collie has historically been less common than its long-coated cousin, it remains prized by herders and families for its intelligence and elegance.
Although not as widely known as the Rough Collie, the Smooth Collie has a dedicated fanbase, especially among those who prefer an easier-to-maintain coat. The breed enjoys moderate popularity in the UK, United States, and Europe, and is admired for its versatility, from herding and agility to therapy and obedience work.
As people seek smart, active, family-friendly dogs with manageable grooming needs, the Smooth Collie’s appeal continues to grow.
The Smooth Collie is a medium-to-large dog with a sleek coat, a graceful build, and a proud, intelligent expression.
• Height: 20–24 inches (51–61 cm)
• Weight: 40–70 pounds (18–32 kg)
• Build: Athletic, strong, and well-proportioned
• Coat: Short, dense, flat outer coat with a soft undercoat
• Color: Sable and white, tricolor (black, white, tan), blue merle, or white with colored markings
• Head: Long, refined, and wedge-shaped
• Eyes: Almond-shaped and dark; blue eyes appear in merles
• Ears: Semi-erect, tipping forward when alert
• Tail: Long, carried low with a gentle upward curve
Their overall appearance exudes elegance, attentiveness, and vitality.
Smooth Collies are known for their gentleness, intelligence, and adaptability.
• Affectionate: Deeply bonded to their family and wonderful with children.
• Intelligent: Highly trainable and quick to learn commands and routines.
• Gentle: Kind and easygoing, making them excellent therapy dogs.
• Alert: Naturally watchful and responsive, but not overly aggressive or anxious.
• Energetic: Enjoys activity but can settle down calmly in the home.
Their even temperament and desire to please make them a favorite among experienced and first-time owners alike.
The Smooth Collie is ideal for:
• Families with children seeking a friendly, reliable companion
• Individuals who want a smart, trainable dog for agility or obedience
• Those looking for a low-maintenance alternative to long-coated breeds
• Homes that value gentle, loyal dogs with a classic herding temperament
However, it may not be ideal for:
• Very sedentary households
• People seeking a completely independent or aloof dog
• Homes that cannot provide daily engagement or mental stimulation
Smooth Collies are relatively easy to care for but do best in involved, attentive homes.
• Exercise: Moderate to high; needs daily walks, playtime, and mental tasks.
• Training: Extremely responsive to positive training; excels in obedience and dog sports.
• Grooming: Low-maintenance; weekly brushing and occasional baths.
• Living Environment: Adapts well to house or apartment living if exercise needs are met.
• Feeding: A balanced, high-quality diet suitable for medium-to-large active breeds.
Collies thrive with routine, gentle leadership, and human interaction.
Smooth Collies are generally healthy but may be prone to:
• Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA)
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
• Dermatomyositis (a skin and muscle condition)
• MDR1 gene sensitivity (drug-related reactions)
Lifespan is typically 12 to 14 years, and responsible breeding with health testing is crucial to reduce inherited risks.
• Rough Collie: Same breed, different coat; Smooth Collies are lower-maintenance but equally loving and intelligent.
• Border Collie: More intense and work-driven; Smooth Collies are generally gentler and more adaptable as pets.
• Australian Shepherd: Higher energy and more independent; Smooth Collies tend to be more relaxed and family-focused.
If you’re seeking a smart, loving, and graceful dog that excels in family life, obedience, and even therapy work, the Smooth Collie is a top choice. They offer a harmonious blend of intelligence, loyalty, and elegance — with the bonus of a sleek, easy-care coat.
Prospective owners should be ready to include the Collie in their daily life, offering companionship, play, and mental stimulation.
Choose breeders who test for inherited eye conditions and MDR1 sensitivity. Breed-specific rescues also occasionally have Smooth Collies available for adoption.
United Pet Club offers microchip registration, training support, and healthcare tools tailored for Collie owners.