collies

The Collie was developed centuries ago to be a herder, watchdog, and companion. Made famous by “Lassie," a fictional Collie popular in the 1950s, this breed is well-loved as both a working dog and as a pet.

Collies come in two varieties – rough coat and smooth coat – but are recognized by their distinctive flopped-over ears, thick hair, and long faces. These proud dogs are friendly, excellent with children, and are very intelligent and trainable.

The Collie was developed centuries ago and is a medium to large size breed that weighs 50 – 75 pounds and has a life expectancy of 12 – 14 years.  Collies are typically healthy but do have some specific health conditions which can be minimized through responsible breeding of screened animals.  Always contact your veterinarian as soon as you notice any physical or behavioral changes. 

Potential Health Conditions:

• Collie Nose Syndrome, Nasal Solar Dermatitis 

• Cataracts

• Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA)

• Grey Collie Syndrome, Cyclic Neutropenia (CN)

• Dermatomyositis (DMS)

• Multidrug Resistance 1,(MDR1)

• Degenerative Myelopathy (DM)

• Recurring Seizures, Idiopathic Epilepsy (IE)

• Canine Hip Dysplasia (CHD)

• Immune-mediated hemolytic anemia

• Collie Granuloma, Nodular Granulomatous Episclerokeratitis, (NGE)

• Dislocated Kneecap, Patellar luxation

• Progressive Retinal Atrophy, Rod cone dysplasia 2 (PRA-rcd2)

• Inward Turned Eyelids, Entropion

• Congenital Deafness

Suggested Screening

• Hip evaluation

• Eye examination

• Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA,CH) – DNA test

• Progressive retinal atrophy, Rod cone dysplasia 2 (PRA-rcd2) – DNA test

• Dermatomyositis (DMS) – DNA test

• Multidrug resistance 1 (MDR1) – DNA test

Routine care:

• Spay or neuter

• Moderate exercise

• Routine grooming

Collies are smart and active and need lots of mental and physical stimulation.