The Collie breed of dog is made up of several different types of herding or landrace dogs. The most recognized type is the Rough Collie – the one that looks like the Lassie-type dog of world fame.
Other types of Collies can include:
Bearded Collie
Border Collie
Australian Sheepdog
Australian Collie
Australian Kelpie
Australian Shepherd
Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog
English Sheepdog
Old English Sheepdog
Farm Collie
German Coolie, Koolie or Collie
Huntaway
Lurcher
McNab Shepherd
Shetland Sheepdog
Welsh Sheepdog
The Collie breed is made up typically of medium-sized dogs of about 22-55 lbs, with a fairly slight build. They tend to have a pointed snout and erect or partially erects ears which give a fox-like impression. The Cattle herding varieties tend to be stockier. They may have short, flat or long fur and their tails can be smooth, bushy or feathery. It is typical to find some types of this dog with docked tails, while some are naturally bobtailed or have no tails at all.
The different varieties vary in coloration, but the typical base colors are black, black and tan, red, red and tan or sable colored. White is often included with the base color, usually on the belly and chest areas, on the shoulders and on the face and legs. Some dogs may be all white with only the head colored, or sometimes the white is absent or only on the chest and toes. They can also be tri-colored, with the most common being black, tan and white.
This breed of dog comes in two categories, the working types and the pet/show variety. The working dogs are very energetic and extremely agile. They have a great deal of stamina and are able to run a long time without tiring. This is why they make excellent herding dogs. They are intelligent, being able to anticipate the movements of the animals they are herding, and are able to follow commands well. They are very motivated and energetic in the jobs they are given to do. Because of their herding and energetic capabilities, they generally do not make good house pets. Generally regular pet owners cannot give them the physical and mental challenges they require in a normal household environment. They are however excellently suited for dog agility competitions, or other active dog sport areas.
The show and pet types of collie, which includes the Rough and Smooth coated Collies and Shetland Sheepdogs make better family pets. These types of dogs are very trainable, gentle, and loyal. Because of their gentleness and devotion, they are very compatible with children. Also because of their gentleness, they are often more suitable as companions than as watch dogs.