Although not much is known about the origins of the Scotch Collie, it is certain that its ancestors have their origins Scotland and northern England.
The main use for these dogs was herding sheep and cattle. It was later, in the 19th century England, when they changed their purpose and became pets and show dogs, rather than workers. Queen Victoria was one of the first to have one of these dogs as a pet, and, soon after, everyone followed. By the end of the 1800s the breed was standardized and kept its characteristics until today.
A big leap forward in popularity occurred in the 1940s and 1950s with the release of the “Lassie Come Home” film, which featured a Scotch Collie as the main character.
Also known as the Scottish Collie, this dog is an athletic, well-balanced, intelligent canine, measuring from 50 to 63 centimeters and with a weight varying from 18 to 31 kilos, with the males being slightly larger compared to the females.
They have a wide skull, with a well-defined stop and strong jaws which meet in a scissors bite. The ears are medium in size and will stand erect when the dog is alert, but lie close to the head when relaxed.
The eyes have a vague oblique setting and can be almond to round-shaped. Usually they are brown, but there are cases when one or both eyes are blue.
The coat is double-laired, with a straight, coarse outer layer and a short, soft undercoat. The coat is abundant especially on the tail, frill and breeches and smooth on the face and front of forelegs.
The coloration is varied, with most common being clear or shaded sable, black with white or tan, blue merle with white and/or tan. Other colors include white, chocolate, slate blue or gray, red merle or gray.
Grooming adds up to just a brushing once every one or two weeks, depending on the dogs living conditions.
The breed is known to be very healthy, with no specific medical conditions.
Although they need a lot of exercise, these dogs can easily live in an enclosed surrounding such as an apartment, but will feel very happy in open space, like a farm or anywhere they are free to roam. As well as it gets its daily exercise routine, the Collie will feel happy in any environment.
The Collies are very sociable canines, and are very good with children, other dogs or other household pets, like even cats, for example. They are very intelligent and will always be affectionate and eager to please their owner. Training will not be difficult with these dogs, as they are highly intelligent and enjoy learning new tricks and commands.
A dog with a personality like this will certainly make the best pet for anyone who is looking for an energetic, intelligent and loving companion. The Scotch Collie will always amaze you with its majestic personality and spirit, bringing love and joy into your home.
