Gollies typically exhibit a medium to large build with a blend of features from both Golden Retrievers and Collies, often resulting in a striking and athletic appearance.

Medium to large, typically weighing between 50-75 pounds.

Usually a double coat that can be medium to long in length; texture can range from smooth to slightly wavy.

Varies widely; common colors include golden, black, brown, sable, and merle, often with white markings.

A blend of both parent breeds, with a moderately defined stop and expressive eyes.

Can be semi-erect or floppy, often with feathering.

Typically long and feathered, carried low or with a slight curve.

Gollies are known for their friendly, intelligent, and energetic nature, making them excellent family pets and companions.

Deeply loyal and loving towards their families, often forming strong bonds.

Highly trainable and eager to please, excelling in obedience and agility.

Active and playful, requiring regular exercise to stay happy and healthy.

Generally good with children and other pets, especially when socialized early.

Naturally watchful, making them good watchdogs, though not typically aggressive.

Gollies are best suited for active individuals or families who can provide ample exercise, training, and companionship.

Adaptable to various living environments.

Herding instincts may need management.

The ideal Gollie owner is someone who is committed to providing consistent training, plenty of exercise, and lots of love. They thrive in environments where they are an active part of the family.

Gollie care involves regular grooming to manage their double coat, a balanced diet to fuel their energy, and a spacious living environment.

Brush 2-3 times a week to prevent matting and reduce shedding; more frequent brushing during shedding seasons. Bathing as needed.

High-quality dog food appropriate for their age, size, and activity level. Monitor food intake to prevent overfeeding.

Adaptable to various living situations, but a home with a securely fenced yard is ideal.

Regular teeth brushing (at least 2-3 times a week) to maintain dental health.

Trim nails every 3-4 weeks, or as needed.

Gollies are highly trainable due to their intelligence and eagerness to please, but they require substantial daily exercise to match their energy levels.

Gollies are quick learners, responding well to positive reinforcement techniques such as praise, treats, and play. Early socialization and obedience training are crucial to manage their herding instincts and ensure they develop into well-behaved adults. Consistency and patience are key.

Gollies need at least 60-90 minutes of vigorous exercise daily. This can include long walks, running, hiking, swimming, and interactive play sessions. Mental stimulation is equally important; puzzle toys, agility training, and herding games can keep their minds engaged.

Maintain a consistent training schedule to reinforce good behavior.

Use rewards-based training for best results.

Expose them to various people, pets, and environments early in life.

Provide puzzle toys and activities to prevent boredom.

Be mindful of their natural herding tendencies, especially around small children and pets.

Gollies are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they are prone to certain genetic health issues inherited from their parent breeds.

A genetic condition where the hip joint doesn't develop properly, leading to arthritis.

Similar to hip dysplasia, but affecting the elbow joint.

A degenerative eye disorder that can lead to blindness.

A genetic condition affecting the development of the eye, potentially leading to vision loss.

A life-threatening condition where the stomach fills with gas and twists.

The Gollie is a relatively recent hybrid, arising from the intentional crossing of Golden Retrievers and Collies, likely within the last few decades. The goal was to blend the Retriever's friendly, eager-to-please nature with the Collie's intelligence and trainability. While not recognized by major kennel clubs like the AKC (as it's a mixed breed), the Gollie benefits from the established histories and breed standards of its parent breeds. There aren't specific notable events for Gollies, but their popularity is growing among families and individuals seeking an active, intelligent, and affectionate companion.

Yes, Gollies are generally very good with children, especially when raised with them. Their gentle and playful nature makes them excellent family companions.

Gollies need at least 60-90 minutes of vigorous exercise daily, along with mental stimulation.

Yes, Gollies have a double coat and shed moderately year-round, with heavier shedding during seasonal changes.

Yes, Gollies are highly intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train with positive reinforcement methods.

The average lifespan of a Gollie is 10-15 years.

Yes, Gollies can inherit health issues from both parent breeds, such as hip and elbow dysplasia, PRA, and CEA.

While adaptable, Gollies thrive best in homes with yards due to their high energy levels. Apartment living is possible with sufficient daily exercise.

Yes, Gollies generally get along well with other pets, especially if socialized from a young age.

Gollies require regular brushing (2-3 times a week) to manage their coat and minimize shedding.

Gollies are alert and watchful, making them good watchdogs, but they are not typically aggressive.