Given the remarkable popularity of Lassie, it is no surprise that Collies are among the best recognized and well-loved breeds. There are two varieties, distinguished by coat length and texture. The more common Rough type has a long, straight, rough coat, while the Smooth type sports a short, tight and shiny one.

Both varieties may descend, and take their name, from a local black "Colley Dog." Once known as Shepherd's Dogs or Ban Dogs, they have long worked as sheep herders in Scotland and northern England, guarding and driving animals to market. Bred for hundreds of years for function and temperament, the modern physique of the dog was a late development in Collie history. Modern breed characteristics emerged around the turn of the 19th century, followed by a breed standard. From the earliest shows, these dogs were successful competitors.

Although already well-regarded by shepherds, Collies gained great popularity with Queen Victoria in the middle of the 19th century. Her royal patronage in turn created enthusiasts throughout much of the population. As herding dogs, they had already moved to the United States with colonists, but gained show recognition there at the end of the 19th century.

The need for herding dogs diminished in the 20th century, though active promotion of the breed by national Collie clubs ensured the dogs' popularity as companions. These calm, loving, alert dogs enjoy the company of children and adults, making them excellent family pets.

IDEAL BREED CHARACTERISTICS

Size: Males 24 to 26 inches, Females 22 to 24 inches (at the withers).

Appearance: Active, strong body with long, pOverful motion.

Coat and Color: Straight, flat, coarse coat (breed variety dictates short or long length). Four colors: Sable (brown shades) and White, White with colored markings, Tri-color (black, tan and white) or Blue Merle (blue-gray with black and white).

Head: Flat skull with a long, blunt muzzle; dark, almond shaped eyes match coat color; medium-size ears.

Tail: Long, low with an upetard twist.

Breed info on the Collie

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