Collie (Smooth) Dogs

History

The Smooth Collie has a similar history to the Rough Collie, although it's origins are unclear. Having originated in Scotland, the breed underwent varies changes and the smooth coated variety was developed. Used as herding dogs, the intelligence of the breed was second to none and they were the Farmers choice for herding dogs. Most organisations consider the Rough and Smooth Collie to be the same breed. In the UK, they are classed as separate breeds and shown accordingly.

Behaviour

Friendly, calm and easy to train makes the Smooth Collie a good choice for families. The herding nature can be tricky to work with at first, but their love of the family makes them an ideal companion dog. They like children, pets and other dogs and are rarely aggressive to anyone. They do bark a lot and need to be taught from a young age that excessive barking is not tolerated. As watch dogs, they do very well. The main thing will Collies is providing them with company, they need to be around people.

They are easy to train and respond well to kind, calm training. They have an eagerness to please and will want to be around you, getting involved in daily activities as much as possible. They dislike being left alone for too long and can sometimes be destructive if they are bored and haven't had sufficient exercise. Both Rough and Smooth Collies do well in obedience, tracking, agility and herding competitions and enjoy working for their owners. Their sensitive nature means that they shouldn't be treated harshly, but a gentle touch with plenty of praise works well for them. Some are used as assistance dogs, as their intelligence and lust for work make them ideal.

Collies are an active breed that require plenty of exercise and the chance to run around and explore their surroundings. Recall is usually excellent, but caution should be taken when out in the countryside for fear of them running in to sheep (the same applies for all dogs)! Keeping them mentally and physically active will produce a fantastic family pet who loves everyone. Smooth Collies are more athletic and active than their Rough coated counterparts, but once walked, they are content in the home and happy to sleep at your feet or on the sofa if allowed.

Their smooth coat will need a regular brushing to remove dead hair, but is low maintenance and generally needs little attention, apart from weekly grooming.

Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA) is an inherited issue associated with the breed, along with Canine Hip Dysplasia and Gastric Torsion (Bloat). Collies can have reactions to certain drugs used in treating fleas and ticks, a blood test is available.

Temperament

Collies - both rough and smooth have a sensitive and cheerful temperament. They are highly intelligent, friendly dogs who love to be your side. These can become noisy dogs - particularly if left alone for long periods of time. They desire companionship whether that be from humans or other dogs.

Health Problems

Health problems that may affect Collies include Collie eye anomoly (CEA: leads to blindnees), progressive retinal atrophy (PRA: degeneration of the retina which can lead to blindness), bloat, epilepsy and grey Collie syndrome (an immune disorder which will normally be fatal in puppyhood).