Rough Collie

• ExerciseModerate

  A daily walk plus some playtime hits the spot.

• GroomingBrush a few times a week

  Brushing several times a week prevents mats.

• Living spaceHouse with room

  Does best with room to move and a yard.

• Owner experienceFor experienced owners

  Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• Commitment12–14 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Progressive retinal atrophy · Hip dysplasia · Epilepsy

The Rough Collie — the 'Lassie' dog — is a graceful, sensitive herding breed famous for its gentle, devoted nature and an almost intuitive attentiveness to its family. Sweet-natured and highly trainable, it is wonderful with children and responds only to kind, positive methods; harsh handling wounds its soft temperament. Moderately active, it enjoys daily walks, play and mental engagement, and it makes an easier family companion than the intense Border Collie. Its one common quirk is a tendency to bark, which early training helps manage. The long, glorious double coat sheds heavily and needs brushing a few times a week, more during seasonal moults (a smooth-coated variety exists with much less coat). Health-wise, two breed-specific points stand out. Collies commonly carry the MDR1 gene mutation, which makes them dangerously sensitive to several common medications, so testing and informing your vet are essential. They are also prone to inherited eye disease, especially Collie eye anomaly, so buy from a breeder who eye-tests puppies, and screen for hip dysplasia and epilepsy. Give a Rough Collie gentle training, exercise and company, mind the MDR1 issue, and it will be a devoted, exceptionally sweet companion for twelve to fourteen years.

• How much exercise does a Rough Collie need?

  Moderate. A daily walk plus some playtime hits the spot.

• How much grooming does a Rough Collie need?

  Brush a few times a week. Brushing several times a week prevents mats.

• Is a Rough Collie suited to apartment living?

  House with room. Does best with room to move and a yard.

• Is a Rough Collie a good fit for first-time owners?

  For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• How long do Rough Collie live?

  12–14 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Rough Collie?

  Keep an eye out for Progressive retinal atrophy, Hip dysplasia, Epilepsy. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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