Scotch Collies possess a lean, athletic build with a distinctive coat that can be either rough or smooth.

Medium-sized, typically ranging from 18 to 24 inches in height at the shoulder.

Generally between 40 and 65 pounds, depending on build and sex.

Two varieties

Commonly seen in sable and white, tricolor (black, white, and tan), and blue merle.

Wedge-shaped head with a refined appearance.

Almond-shaped, expressive eyes, typically dark brown, except in merles, where one or both eyes may be blue or partially blue.

Semi-erect ears, with the tips folding forward.

Moderately long, carried low when at rest and slightly raised when excited.

Scotch Collies are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and gentle nature, making them excellent family pets and working dogs.

Highly intelligent and eager to please, making them quick learners.

Deeply loyal to their families, often forming strong bonds with all members.

Known for their gentle and patient demeanor, especially with children.

Energetic and active, requiring regular mental and physical stimulation.

Highly sensitive to their owner's emotions and tone of voice.

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

Scotch Collies are best suited for active individuals or families who can provide them with ample exercise, training, and companionship.

Excellent working dogs with strong herding instincts.

Can become bored and destructive without sufficient mental stimulation.

The ideal owner for a Scotch Collie is someone who appreciates their intelligence and herding heritage, and is committed to providing the necessary physical and mental enrichment to keep this breed thriving.

Caring for a Scotch Collie involves regular grooming, a balanced diet, and providing a suitable living environment.

Rough-coated collies require brushing several times a week, while smooth-coated collies need less frequent grooming. Both benefit from occasional baths.

Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for their age, size, and activity level. Monitor their weight and adjust portions as needed.

Adaptable to various living situations, but they thrive in homes with ample space to move and play, ideally with a securely fenced yard.

Moderate to heavy shedding, especially during seasonal changes. Regular brushing helps manage loose hair.

Regular teeth brushing is recommended to prevent dental disease.

Trim nails regularly, typically every few weeks, to prevent overgrowth and discomfort.

Scotch Collies are highly trainable and require significant exercise to keep them happy and healthy.

Scotch Collies excel in training due to their intelligence and eagerness to please. Positive reinforcement methods, such as praise and treats, work best. Early socialization and obedience training are crucial for developing a well-behaved companion. They are capable of learning complex commands and tasks, making them suitable for various dog sports like agility, herding, and obedience trials.

These dogs need a significant amount of daily exercise to satisfy their herding instincts and high energy levels. This can include long walks, runs, interactive play sessions, and engaging activities like fetch or frisbee. Mental stimulation is equally important; puzzle toys, training sessions, and herding activities can help keep their minds sharp.

Maintain a consistent training routine to reinforce good behavior.

Utilize rewards-based training for the best results.

Expose them to various people, places, and situations from a young age.

Provide plenty of mental challenges to prevent boredom.

Mix up activities to keep them engaged and prevent monotony.

Their sensitive nature responds poorly to harsh training techniques.

Scotch Collies are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain genetic conditions.

A genetic condition affecting the development of the eye, potentially leading to vision impairment or blindness.

A group of degenerative diseases affecting the retina, eventually leading to blindness.

A malformation of the hip joint, causing pain and lameness.

Causes sensitivity to certain medications, including ivermectin.

The Scotch Collie's origins trace back to the highlands of Scotland and Northern England, where they were primarily used as herding dogs. These collies were essential to farmers, adept at managing flocks of sheep across vast and rugged terrains. The breed's development was heavily influenced by the practical needs of these shepherds, prioritizing intelligence, agility, and stamina. While not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) under the name "Scotch Collie," the breed is closely related to the Rough Collie and Smooth Collie, both of which have AKC recognition. The term "Scotch Collie" often refers to the Old Time Scotch Collie, a landrace breed that preserves the working form of the collie before show-ring breeding significantly altered the appearance of the more commonly known Rough Collie. Notable events in their history include their popularization through literature and film, such as in "Lassie Come Home," which cemented their image as loyal and intelligent companions. Despite changes in agricultural practices, the Scotch Collie retains a dedicated following of enthusiasts who value its working abilities and traditional characteristics.

Yes, Scotch Collies are known for their gentle and patient nature, making them excellent companions for families with children.

Scotch Collies require at least 60-90 minutes of exercise per day, including walks, runs, and interactive play.

They are alert and may bark to alert their owners, but they are not typically excessive barkers.

Yes, their intelligence and eagerness to please make them highly trainable with positive reinforcement methods.

While closely related, "Scotch Collie" often refers to the Old Time Scotch Collie, a working-type collie that retains the traditional characteristics, whereas the Rough Collie has been bred more for show and may have a different appearance and temperament.

Rough-coated Scotch Collies need brushing several times a week, while smooth-coated collies require less frequent grooming.

While adaptable, they thrive best in homes with ample space to move and play, ideally with a securely fenced yard.

They can be prone to Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA), Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), hip dysplasia, and MDR1 gene mutation.

When properly socialized from a young age, Scotch Collies generally get along well with other dogs and pets.

It's important to find a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health and temperament of their dogs, or consider adopting from a Collie rescue organization.