Definition & Meaning of "Collie"

What is a "Collie"?

The Collie is a herding breed known for its intelligence, agility, and versatility. They have a distinctive appearance with a well-proportioned body and a dense, double coat that comes in two varieties: rough and smooth. The rough-coated Collie has a long, luxurious coat with a ruff of fur around the neck and feathering on the legs, while the smooth-coated Collie has a shorter, dense coat. Collies come in a variety of colors, including sable, tri-color, and blue merle. They have a wedge-shaped head with a pointed nose, and large, expressive eyes. Collies are known for their keen intelligence and trainability, and excel in a wide range of activities including herding, obedience, agility, and therapy work. They are also often seen in dog sports such as rally, tracking, and conformation shows. Collies are typically loyal, affectionate, and protective of their families, and can make great family pets. They require regular exercise, mental stimulation, and grooming to keep their coats in good condition. Collies are known for their strong herding instincts and may try to herd other animals or children, so proper training and socialization are important from an early age. They thrive on human companionship and are happiest when they have a job to do.