Herding Group
Rough Collie
Champion Pedigree
Gentle
Devoted
Herder
Made famous worldwide by "Lassie," the Rough Collie is a large, gentle herding breed distinguished by its long, flowing double coat and a proud, watchful bearing. Once a working sheepdog in the Scottish Lowlands, it is prized today mainly as a devoted, easygoing family companion.
Lifespan
12–14 years.
Did You Know?
The Rough Collie’s dramatic rise in worldwide popularity in the mid-20th century is largely credited to the "Lassie" film and television franchise.
Breed Traits
Size
22–26 in. tall, 40–75 lbs.
Energy Level
Moderate — daily walks and playtime suit it well; less driven than its Border Collie cousin.
Coat & Grooming
Long, dense double coat; heavy shedder, needs brushing 2–3 times weekly.
Good With Families
Exceptionally gentle and patient with children, watchful of the household without being aggressive.
Registry Record
Also Known As
Scotch Collie, Lassie Dog
Origin
The Scottish Lowlands, developed from regional sheepdogs.
Typical Litter Size
4 to 8 puppies.
Club Recognitions
AKC, FCI, KC (UK), CKC
Disposition
Gentle, watchful, and eager to please; typically easier to train than more independent herding breeds thanks to its biddable nature.
Coat Colors
Sable and white, tricolor, blue merle, and white.
Working Roles
Historically a Lowland sheepherding dog; today primarily a family companion and show breed.
Health & Wellness
Generally healthy, though Collie Eye Anomaly and the MDR1 drug-sensitivity mutation, shared with related herding breeds, are worth screening for.
Notable Rough Collies
Lassie
The fictional Rough Collie hero of film, radio, and television, largely responsible for the breed’s enduring fame.
Registry Champions
A long-standing fixture in conformation showing since the late 19th century.
Queen Victoria’s Collies
Royal patronage in the 1860s helped popularize the breed beyond working farms.
Related Reading
Rough Collie Gifts
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