Rough Collie
Rough Collies are gentle herding dogs known for a calm demeanor, strong family bonds, and a long, flowing coat. They’re often responsive to training and enjoy having a role, whether that’s obedience, therapy visits, or simply being a steady companion at home. Rough Collies can be sensitive, so kind, consistent training tends to work best. Their coat requires regular brushing to prevent mats, especially behind ears and around the legs. Proper grooming and engagement, they are affectionate, elegant companions.
The Rough Collie is a large dog in the Herding group, known for Gentle, Devoted, Intelligent. Adults typically weigh 50-75 lbs and stand 22-26 in, with a lifespan around 12-14 years.
Quick facts
- Group: Herding
- Size: large
- Lifespan: 12-14 years
- Weight: 50-75 lbs
- Height: 22-26 in
- Temperament: Gentle, Devoted, Intelligent, Sensitive
Temperament & day-to-day life
Temperament helps you predict what daily life with this breed may feel like. The Rough Collie is often described as Gentle, Devoted, Intelligent, Sensitive. Individual dogs vary, but these traits are a solid starting point when you’re planning training, enrichment, and routines.
If you’re researching this breed because you’re trying to identify your own dog, use temperament as supporting evidence—not the final verdict. Compare size, proportions, and behavior patterns, then confirm with a photo using the AI dog breed identifier.
Training & exercise
Herding breeds were bred to move livestock and make quick decisions. Many are observant, energetic, and happiest when they have structured work.
Training tends to click when you keep sessions short, frequent, and goal-oriented. Teach calm behaviors early so drive doesn’t turn into reactivity.
Most herding dogs need both physical outlets and brain work (training games, puzzle toys, structured play) to feel settled at home.
History
Collies were developed in Scotland and northern England as capable sheep herders. The Rough Collie gained global popularity in the 20th century as a beloved family companion.
Care tips
Good care is less about perfection and more about consistency. Start with simple routines you can keep up—daily movement, a predictable feeding plan, and regular check-ins for ears, nails, and skin.
- Brush the coat several times per week; mats form easily if neglected.
- Provide daily exercise and brain games without excessive intensity.
- Train gently methods—sensitivity does best with positive cues.
- Teach calm barking habits; herding dogs can be vocal.
- Start socialization early to build confidence with strangers and new environments.
Similar breeds to compare
Many breeds share similar silhouettes and features. If you’re comparing AI results or deciding between breeds, it helps to read a few profiles side by side. Common look-alikes and close cousins to the Rough Collie include Shetland Sheepdog, Border Collie, Old English Sheepdog, German Shepherd Dog.
When you compare, focus on structure (muzzle length, ear set, body proportions) as much as coat color. Then confirm by looking at temperament and daily care needs.
FAQ
How big do Rough Collies get?
Most adult Rough Collies fall around 50-75 lbs and stand 22-26 in. Genetics, diet, and activity level all influence where an individual dog lands within that range.
How long do Rough Collies live?
The typical lifespan is 12-14 years. Preventive vet care, healthy weight, and consistent daily exercise are some of the biggest factors that support longevity.
What is the Rough Collie temperament like?
Many owners describe this breed as Gentle, Devoted, Intelligent, Sensitive. Early socialization and reward-based training help those traits show up as calm confidence at home and on walks.
How can I identify a Rough Collie from a photo?
Upload a clear photo (ideally with the full body visible) to our dog breed identifier. Use the results as a starting point, then compare likely matches in the breed directory.