Breed Health
Rough Collie Health Issues
A generally healthy breed, though a couple of hereditary conditions shared with related herding breeds are worth screening for before breeding or adoption.
Common Hereditary Conditions
Collie Eye Anomaly
An inherited eye condition affecting the retina, present from birth in affected dogs; a DNA test can identify carriers before breeding.
MDR1 Drug Sensitivity
A genetic mutation shared with related herding breeds causes sensitivity to certain medications; a simple DNA test identifies carriers.
Hip Dysplasia
A joint malformation that can affect this larger herding breed; hip screening of breeding stock lowers the odds.
Dermatomyositis
An inherited inflammatory skin and muscle condition documented at higher rates in the breed, usually appearing before two years of age.
Preventive Care
Requesting eye and hip clearances, along with an MDR1 test result, from a breeder covers the most significant hereditary risks. Because the breed’s heavy coat can hide early skin changes, regular grooming sessions double as a chance to check for the lesions associated with dermatomyositis.
Did You Know?
Despite its size, the Rough Collie is a relatively low-drive herding breed compared to the Border Collie, making its exercise needs easier to meet for most families.
Rough Collie Gifts
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