Rough Collie
Graceful, intelligent, and loyal, this breed thrives as a devoted companion and excels in family life. Famous for a luxurious double coat and gentle, sensitive disposition.
Breed Characteristics
Average sizes and life expectancy of the breed.
HEIGHT
56–61 cm (male)
51–56 cm (female)
WEIGHT
27–34 kg (male)
23–30 kg (female)
LIFE EXPECTANCY
12–14 years
Rough Collie: Breed snapshot
Everything you need to know about this beloved breed at a glance
Key Breed Characteristics
Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Chordata
Class
Mammalia
Order
Carnivora
Family
Canidae
Genus
Canis
Species
Canis lupus familiaris
Diet
Omnivore
"A Rough Collie isn't just a pet — they're a loyal companion, a playful friend, and a loving family member all in one."
Temperament & personality
Understanding Rough Collie's temperament is key to knowing if they're the right match for your lifestyle.
Personality Overview
The Rough Collie is known for being gentle, loyal, and sensitive, often forming strong bonds with families and showing patience with children and other pets.
Key Personality Traits
Gentle and friendly with people and children
Quick learner, eager to understand commands
Moderately active, enjoys regular daily exercise
Enjoys games and family interaction
Adjusts well to routine changes and environments
Strengths
- Highly trainable and eager to please
- Gentle and patient with children
- Strong loyalty to family members
- Excellent watchdog instincts
- Generally good with other pets
Challenges
- Sensitive to harsh corrections or loud voices
- Prone to separation anxiety when left alone
- Needs frequent brushing due to dense coat
- Can be reserved with strangers
- Requires regular mental and physical stimulation
Protect your Rough Collie
Rough Collie can develop collie eye anomaly and hip dysplasia. PetSecur covers unexpected vet costs with quick payouts and personal service.
Intelligence & exercise needs
Rough Collies are both highly intelligent and energetic, requiring mental and physical stimulation to thrive.
🧠 Intelligence & training
Trainability
Highly trainable
Overall rating
This breed is highly intelligent and learns quickly, responding well to consistent, positive training methods. They excel in obedience and enjoy tasks that challenge their minds.
Trainable Tasks:
🏃 Exercise & energy levels
Daily Exercise
60–90 minutes daily
recommended per day
Rough Collies have moderate to high energy levels and require daily exercise, including walks and playtime. Regular mental stimulation is important to keep them engaged and prevent boredom.
Recommended Activities:
Is this breed right for you?
Rough Collies are versatile dogs that adapt well to many lifestyles, but they're not the perfect match for everyone. Here's a quick guide to help you determine if a Rough Collie would fit well in your home.
First-time Owner
Gentle temperament makes them manageable for new owners with some training effort
Apartment Living
Needs space and regular exercise, which small apartments seldom provide
Active Lifestyle
Enjoys activity and will thrive in a home with regular play and outings
Kids
Patient and gentle with children, making them a safe family choice
Multiple Pets
Tends to get along with other pets if socialized early
Being Left Alone
Dislikes being left alone for long periods, which may cause stress or behavioral issues
Breed comparisons
Wondering how Rough Collies compare to other popular breeds? Check out our detailed comparison pages.
Frequently Asked Questions about Rough Collie
Find answers to the most commonly asked questions about this breed
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