Smooth Collie
Breed Description

The Smooth Collie is sometimes referred to simply as a Collie when distinguished by coat type. In various regions and among breed enthusiasts, this dog may also be called the Short-Haired Collie or Smooth-Coated Collie to differentiate it from its Rough Collie cousin. Historically, both coat varieties were simply known as Scotch Collies or Scottish Collies, reflecting their shared heritage from the pastoral lands of Scotland. The breed is recognized under the name Smooth Collie by major kennel organizations worldwide, though some registration bodies classify both the Smooth and Rough varieties as a single breed with two coat types rather than separate breeds.

The Smooth Collie presents an elegant and athletic appearance that combines strength with refined grace. This medium to large herding dog stands proudly with a well-proportioned body built for endurance and agility. The breed's most distinguishing feature compared to its Rough Collie relative is its short, dense coat that lies flat against the body, requiring significantly less grooming while maintaining the breed's classic beauty and functionality.

The head of the Smooth Collie is one of its most distinctive characteristics, featuring a refined wedge shape when viewed from either the top or side. The skull is flat and moderately wide between the ears, with a slight but perceptible stop where the muzzle meets the forehead. The muzzle itself is well-rounded and blunt, never appearing snipy or weak. The jaws are clean-cut and powerful, housing a complete set of evenly spaced white teeth that meet in a scissors bite. The nose is always black regardless of coat color, providing a striking contrast to the facial features.

The eyes of the Smooth Collie are medium-sized, almond-shaped, and set somewhat obliquely in the skull, giving the breed its characteristic sweet and intelligent expression. Eye color varies depending on coat color, with dark brown being preferred in sable and tricolor dogs, while blue merles may have blue or merled eyes. The expression is alert, inquisitive, and gentle, reflecting the breed's keen intelligence and kind temperament. The ears are proportionately small and placed high on the head, carried three-quarters erect with the tips naturally breaking forward when the dog is at attention, contributing to the breed's attentive appearance.

The neck is firm, clean, muscular, and of good length, allowing the dog to carry its head proudly. It arches slightly and blends smoothly into well-laid-back shoulders. The body is slightly longer than tall, with a deep chest that extends to the elbows and well-sprung ribs that provide ample lung capacity. The topline is level and firm, supported by a strong loin and moderately sloping croup. The tail is moderately long, reaching at least to the hock joint, and is carried low when the dog is at rest with a slight upward swirl at the tip, but may be carried gaily when the dog is excited, though never over the back.

The Smooth Collie comes in four recognized color patterns. Sable dogs range from light gold to rich mahogany, often with white markings on the chest, neck, legs, feet, and tail tip. Tricolor dogs feature a predominantly black body with tan markings on the legs and head, along with white markings similar to those found in sables. Blue merle presents a mottled or marbled effect of blue-gray and black, with tan markings and white areas in the typical pattern. White dogs, while less common, are predominantly white with markings in sable, tricolor, or blue merle on the head and occasionally the body.

American Kennel Club (AKC)

The AKC standard emphasizes that the Smooth Collie should present a picture of natural beauty, standing with impassive dignity. The dog should be of good size, carrying itself proudly, alert and active. Expression is one of the most important points, produced by the combination of skull and foreface, set and shape of eyes, and placement of ears. The head is refined, never massive, with a flat skull and slight stop. The muzzle is well-rounded, never weak or snipy. Eyes are medium-sized, almond-shaped, and set obliquely. Ears are small, set high, carried three-quarters erect. The neck is firm, clean, and muscular. The body is slightly longer than tall with deep chest and well-sprung ribs. Forelegs are straight with flexible pasterns. Hindquarters are powerful with well-bent stifles. The coat is short, hard, dense, and flat with abundant undercoat. Four colors are recognized: Sable and White, Tricolor, Blue Merle, and White. Males stand 24-26 inches and weigh 60-75 pounds; females 22-24 inches and 50-65 pounds.

Federation Cynologique Internationale (FCI)

The FCI recognizes the Collie under Standard No. 296 in Group 1, Section 1 (Sheepdogs). The breed is listed without working trial, with Great Britain as the country of origin. The standard describes a dog of great beauty standing with impassive dignity. Physical structure should show strength and activity, free from cloddiness. Expression is very important, obtained by perfect balance of skull and foreface, size and shape of eyes, and ear position. The skull is flat and moderately wide, with slight perceptible stop. Skull and muzzle are of equal length. The muzzle is smooth and well-rounded. Eyes are medium size, almond-shaped, set obliquely, dark brown except in blue merles. Ears are small, carried semi-erect when alert. The body is slightly long compared to height with firm back and slight rise over loins. The smooth coat is short, dense, and flat with hard texture. Three recognized colors are Sable and White, Tricolor, and Blue Merle. Height at shoulder for males is 56-61 cm, females 51-56 cm. Weight for males is 20.5-29.5 kg, females 18-25 kg.

United Kennel Club (UKC)

The UKC standard emphasizes that the Collie was developed for herding and should possess physical and mental characteristics to work all day in all conditions. The breed should convey an impression of an active, lithe dog showing strength and speed. The head is a very important characteristic resembling a well-blunted lean wedge. The top of skull and muzzle lie in parallel planes of equal length. The skull is flat and gradually tapers. The muzzle is smooth and well-rounded. Eyes are medium-sized, almond-shaped, set obliquely, dark brown except in blue merles. Ears are small, placed high, carried three-quarters erect when alert. The neck is firm and muscular with good length. The body is slightly longer than tall with strong, level back. The chest is deep and fairly broad. Forequarters have well laid-back shoulders with straight, well-boned forelegs. Hindquarters are powerful and muscular. The smooth coat is short, dense, and flat with hard texture and undercoat. Four recognized colors are Sable and White, Tricolor, Blue Merle, and White. Males stand 24-26 inches and weigh 60-75 pounds; females 22-24 inches and 50-65 pounds.

Other Organizations

The Canadian Kennel Club and The Kennel Club (UK) also recognize the Collie with standards very similar to those of the FCI and AKC. The Collie Club of America serves as the AKC parent club. Many regional Collie clubs worldwide work to preserve the breed's working ability alongside its role as a family companion.

The Smooth Collie shares its ancient lineage with the Rough Collie, both varieties descending from pastoral dogs that worked the rugged landscapes of Scotland and northern England for centuries. The exact origins are lost to time, but evidence suggests ancestors of today's Collies arrived in the British Isles with successive waves of settlers, possibly including Roman occupation forces. These early pastoral dogs were bred primarily for function, valued for intelligence, stamina, and ability to control livestock across challenging terrain.

The name Collie likely derives from the Scottish black-faced sheep known as Colleys, which these dogs were bred to herd. Historical records from the 1800s describe Collies as medium-sized dogs with varying coat types, all sharing similar body structure and working capabilities. Both smooth-coated and rough-coated puppies regularly appeared in the same litters, as coat type was secondary to working ability.

The transformation from working farm dog to recognized show breed began in the mid-nineteenth century with the advent of organized dog shows in Britain. The first dog show to include Collies as a distinct class was held in Birmingham in 1860. Queen Victoria's admiration for the breed significantly elevated its status when she acquired Collies after visiting the Scottish Highlands in the 1860s. Her patronage brought the breed to public attention and sparked interest among the British aristocracy.

As the breed gained popularity, fanciers began developing more refined and consistent type. The smooth-coated variety was prized by practical-minded breeders who appreciated the functionality of the shorter coat. The Smooth Collie required less maintenance while retaining intelligence and working ability, making it suitable for active work in muddy or brush-filled terrain.

The Collie Club was established in England in 1881, one of the earliest breed-specific clubs formed anywhere. This organization worked to establish a written standard and promote responsible breeding. Initially, both coat varieties were simply referred to as Collies, with smooth and rough coats recognized as acceptable variations. This practice continues in many countries today.

The breed arrived in America during the late 1800s. The Collie Club of America was founded in 1886, making it one of the oldest breed clubs in the United States. American breeders initially imported British stock and followed British breeding practices. However, as the American fancy developed, some divergence in type occurred.

Throughout the early twentieth century, the Rough Collie gained significant popularity in America, partly due to the famous Lassie films and television series beginning in the 1940s. The Smooth Collie, however, never achieved the same level of popularity, remaining relatively uncommon even among purebred enthusiasts.

The mid-twentieth century saw both setbacks and advances for the breed. World Wars I and II severely impacted breeding programs in Europe, with many kennels disbanded. However, dedicated fanciers worked to preserve breed quality during these difficult periods. In the post-war years, the breed continued to evolve with increased attention to health testing and genetic diversity.

Today, the Smooth Collie remains less common than the Rough variety but maintains a dedicated following among those who appreciate its elegant appearance combined with practical coat maintenance. The breed continues to excel as a family companion, therapy dog, and in various dog sports.

The Smooth Collie was originally developed as a versatile herding dog capable of managing flocks of sheep and herds of cattle across the challenging terrain of Scotland and northern England. The breed's primary function was to gather, drive, and control livestock under the direction of a shepherd, often working independently at considerable distances. This heritage as a thinking, problem-solving working dog continues to influence the breed's temperament today.

As a herding dog, the Smooth Collie displays a working style characterized by gathering and fetching. The breed typically works by using presence, movement, and eye contact to influence livestock behavior, circling around stock to gather them and bring them to the handler. Unlike some herding breeds that work very close to stock, the Collie traditionally works at a moderate distance using what is described as medium eye.

The smooth coat variety was particularly favored by shepherds and drovers who worked in conditions where a long coat would become matted with mud and debris. The shorter, denser coat provides adequate weather protection while being far more practical for daily work in rough terrain. This made smooth-coated dogs especially valuable for droving work, where dogs would accompany livestock on long journeys to market.

In modern times, while relatively few Smooth Collies engage in actual farm work, the breed continues to demonstrate versatility through success in various activities. Many participate in herding trials and tests sanctioned by organizations such as the American Herding Breed Association and American Kennel Club, demonstrating their instinctive herding abilities on livestock including sheep, ducks, and cattle.

The breed excels in obedience competition, where the same intelligence and desire to work cooperatively that made the Collie valuable as a herding dog translate to success in precision heelwork, retrieves, and other exercises. The Smooth Collie's sensitivity means it responds best to positive training methods, but this sensitivity also allows for excellent communication between dog and handler.

Agility is another venue where Smooth Collies demonstrate athletic ability and working heritage. The breed's moderate size, good structure, and natural athleticism allow for competitive performance in this sport requiring dogs to navigate a timed obstacle course. The Smooth Collie's trainability and willingness to work as a team serve the breed well in this fast-paced activity.

Rally obedience combines elements of traditional obedience with a more relaxed approach emphasizing teamwork and communication, which is well-suited to the Smooth Collie temperament. The breed typically enjoys the varied exercises and close working relationship that rally requires.

The Smooth Collie's gentle, sensitive nature and strong bond with people have made the breed valuable as a therapy dog. Many work in nursing homes, hospitals, schools, and other settings where their calm demeanor and genuine enjoyment of human interaction provide comfort. The moderate size is appropriate for most therapy work settings, and the short coat is often preferred in medical settings.

As service dogs, some Smooth Collies have been trained to assist individuals with various disabilities. While not as commonly seen in service work as some breeds, the Collie's intelligence, trainability, and desire to please make it capable of learning complex tasks for mobility assistance, hearing alert work, and as guide dogs.

In family settings, the Smooth Collie serves as a devoted companion while often maintaining some herding instincts. Many will attempt to herd children or other pets using body blocking, circling, and persistent following to keep their charges gathered together. Understanding and appropriately channeling these instincts through training and suitable activities helps the Smooth Collie thrive as a family companion.

The breed's alert nature and tendency to bark at unusual activity make the Smooth Collie an effective watchdog, notifying owners of visitors or unusual occurrences. This watchful behavior must be balanced with training to prevent nuisance barking, but when properly managed, the Smooth Collie can provide security awareness without aggressive tendencies.

Perhaps most importantly in contemporary society, the Smooth Collie functions as a family companion, providing loyal friendship, gentle temperament, and an enduring bond with its people. The breed's combination of intelligence, trainability, moderate exercise requirements, and adaptability makes it suitable for many different types of households.

The Smooth Collie displays behavioral characteristics that reflect its heritage as an intelligent working dog developed to collaborate closely with humans. The breed is renowned for its trainability, stemming from both native intelligence and a strong desire to please. This combination makes the Smooth Collie responsive to training from an early age, though the breed's sensitivity means it performs best when training methods emphasize positive reinforcement.

Intelligence is one of the Smooth Collie's defining behavioral traits. The breed typically learns new commands quickly and retains training well, often seeming to anticipate what is expected. This intelligence extends beyond simple obedience to include problem-solving abilities and an awareness of routine that can be remarkable. Many owners report their dogs seem to understand household schedules and anticipate daily events.

The sensitivity characteristic of the breed manifests in various ways. Smooth Collies are highly attuned to their owners' moods and emotions, often responding to subtle changes in tone of voice, body language, or household atmosphere. This emotional awareness makes them excellent companions, but it also means harsh training methods can be distressing, potentially leading to fearful behavior.

Herding instinct remains strong in many Smooth Collies. This may manifest as attempts to herd children, other pets, or even adults, using body blocking, circling, and persistent following. Some may also display behaviors such as nipping at heels or barking to move their charges, though proper training from puppyhood can minimize these behaviors.

Alertness is another prominent behavioral characteristic. Smooth Collies tend to be highly aware of their environment and notice changes quickly. This watchful nature made the breed valuable on farms, and it persists in modern companion dogs. Many will bark to announce visitors or unusual sounds, making them excellent watchdogs, though this requires appropriate training to prevent excessive barking.

The breed's social behavior varies depending on the individual dog and early socialization. Well-socialized Smooth Collies typically display polite but reserved behavior toward strangers, neither overly friendly nor fearful. The breed tends to be discriminating in its friendships, forming strong bonds with family members while remaining more aloof with acquaintances.

With family members, the Smooth Collie typically displays devoted, affectionate behavior. The breed tends to form particularly strong bonds with one or two people while still being friendly and loving with other family members. Many shadow their favorite person throughout the house, content to be nearby whether actively engaging or simply resting in the same room.

Playfulness is a notable behavioral trait, particularly in younger dogs. The breed typically enjoys interactive games with family members, showing particular enthusiasm for activities that engage their intelligence. As they mature, Smooth Collies often become less boisterous while maintaining enjoyment of interactive activities throughout their lives.

Energy level tends toward moderate to moderately high, requiring daily exercise to maintain physical and mental health. The breed adapts its activity level somewhat to household routine, being capable of bursts of vigorous activity interspersed with periods of calm rest. However, insufficient exercise and mental stimulation can lead to behavioral problems including excessive barking or destructive chewing.

The breed's behavior with other dogs typically reflects good social skills when properly socialized from puppyhood. Most Smooth Collies play well with other dogs and can live harmoniously in multi-dog households. Some may attempt to herd other dogs during play, which can be amusing or annoying depending on the other dogs' tolerance.

Separation anxiety can be an issue in some Smooth Collies, reflecting the breed's strong attachment to its people. Dogs who are overly dependent may exhibit distress behaviors when left alone, including excessive barking, destructive chewing, or inappropriate elimination. Preventing separation anxiety through gradual training to accept brief absences from puppyhood is far easier than treating established anxiety behaviors.

The Smooth Collie integrates into family life with remarkable devotion and adaptability, forming strong emotional bonds with all family members while often developing a particularly close attachment to one or two individuals. This breed thrives in households where it is treated as a valued family member rather than relegated to solitary existence. The Smooth Collie's heritage as a close working partner to shepherds translates to a modern desire for inclusion in daily family activities and routines.

Within the family structure, the Smooth Collie often assumes a watchful, protective role without being overly possessive or aggressive. The breed typically positions itself where it can observe household activities and family members, showing contentment when able to keep track of everyone's whereabouts. This vigilant behavior stems from herding instinct rather than anxiety, though it is important to ensure the dog learns to relax.

The breed's interaction with children generally reflects patience and gentleness, making the Smooth Collie a suitable family dog when both children and dog are taught appropriate interaction skills. The breed often shows remarkable tolerance for the exuberant affection typical of young children, though adult supervision remains essential. Teaching children to respect the dog's space helps prevent problems and builds positive relationships.

Smooth Collies often display particular gentleness with infants and toddlers, seeming to recognize their vulnerability and adjusting behavior accordingly. Many families report that their dog positions itself near young children as if standing guard, and some become quite concerned if they hear a baby crying.

With school-age children, the Smooth Collie can be an excellent companion for outdoor play and activities. The breed typically enjoys games of fetch, running alongside children, and participating in family outings. The Smooth Collie's moderate energy level means it can match the activity level of energetic children while also being capable of settling quietly during homework time.

The breed's herding instinct may manifest in attempts to keep children grouped together during outdoor play. While this behavior typically stems from protective instincts, it can involve body blocking, circling, or occasional nipping at heels. Teaching the dog appropriate ways to express its protective instincts helps maintain harmony.

In multi-generational households, Smooth Collies often adapt well to varying needs of different age groups. The breed can be gentle and calm with elderly family members while still providing companionship and light exercise. Many seem to intuitively adjust their behavior to match the capabilities of individual family members.

Exercise and activity needs within the family context are moderate but consistent. The Smooth Collie requires daily physical exercise through walks, play sessions, or participation in dog sports. Families who enjoy outdoor recreation often find the Smooth Collie an enthusiastic companion for hiking or jogging, though the breed does not require extreme amounts of exercise.

Grooming responsibilities, while less demanding than those for the Rough Collie, still require family commitment. The short coat needs regular brushing, particularly during seasonal shedding. Making grooming a family activity can help distribute the responsibility while providing bonding time.

Training participation offers another opportunity for family involvement. While consistency is important, having different family members work with the dog on basic obedience helps the dog learn to respond to multiple handlers and strengthens bonds throughout the family.

The Smooth Collie's role in family routines often extends to participating in daily activities such as morning routines, meal times, and evening relaxation. The breed typically learns household schedules quickly and may even help remind family members of regular activities through its anticipatory behavior.

As family circumstances change through life transitions such as new babies, children leaving for college, or relocation, the Smooth Collie generally adapts when changes are introduced gradually and the dog's basic needs are maintained. The breed's fundamental devotion to its family persists through changes, though patience and continued attention help the dog adjust.

The emotional support the Smooth Collie provides to family members contributes significantly to its value. Many families report that their dog seems to sense when family members are sad or stressed, offering comfort through proximity and gentle interaction. This empathetic quality makes the Smooth Collie a valued source of emotional support for all family members.

The Smooth Collie is generally a healthy breed with a relatively long lifespan of 12 to 14 years when provided with proper care, nutrition, and preventive veterinary attention. Like all purebred dogs, the breed is predisposed to certain hereditary health conditions that responsible breeders work to minimize through health testing and selective breeding. Prospective owners should seek puppies from breeders who conduct appropriate health testing on breeding stock.

Eye conditions represent one of the most significant health concerns in the Smooth Collie. Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA) is a congenital condition affecting eye development that is inherited as a recessive trait. The condition varies in severity from mild changes that do not affect vision to severe malformation resulting in blindness. All Smooth Collies should be examined by a veterinary ophthalmologist before breeding, and genetic testing is available to identify carriers of the CEA gene.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) is another hereditary eye condition that can affect Smooth Collies, though it is less common than CEA. This degenerative disease causes gradual deterioration of the retina, eventually leading to complete blindness. DNA testing can identify dogs carrying the gene for certain forms of PRA, allowing breeders to make informed decisions to avoid producing affected puppies.

Hip dysplasia, a malformation of the hip joint that can lead to arthritis and lameness, occurs in Smooth Collies at varying rates depending on breeding lines. The condition has both genetic and environmental components, with nutrition and growth rate during puppyhood potentially influencing expression. Breeding dogs should be evaluated using radiographic screening protocols such as those offered by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals or PennHIP.

Dermatomyositis is an inflammatory condition affecting the skin and muscles that occurs more frequently in Collies than in most other breeds. The condition typically manifests in young dogs, presenting with skin lesions on the face, ears, and extremities, along with muscle inflammation that can affect the ability to eat and swallow in severe cases. A genetic test is available to identify dogs at risk for developing the condition.

The MDR1 gene mutation is particularly important in Collies and related herding breeds. This genetic mutation affects the blood-brain barrier's ability to eliminate certain drugs and toxins, leading to potentially severe or fatal reactions to medications that are safe for most dogs. Commonly affected drugs include ivermectin at prevention doses higher than those used for heartworm prevention, certain chemotherapy drugs, and some pre-anesthetic medications. All Smooth Collies should be tested for the MDR1 mutation.

Epilepsy, characterized by recurrent seizures without an identifiable underlying cause, occurs in Smooth Collies at a rate similar to many other purebred dogs. Seizures typically first appear in young to middle-aged dogs and usually require lifelong management with anti-seizure medications. While epilepsy cannot currently be prevented through testing, responsible breeders avoid breeding dogs that develop seizures.

Bloat, or gastric dilatation-volvulus, is a life-threatening condition that can affect deep-chested breeds including the Smooth Collie. The condition occurs when the stomach fills with gas and potentially rotates, cutting off blood supply. Bloat constitutes a medical emergency. Risk factors include eating large meals rapidly and exercising immediately after eating. Feeding multiple smaller meals and avoiding strenuous exercise around meal times may help reduce risk.

Thyroid disorders, particularly hypothyroidism, occur in Smooth Collies with some frequency. This condition results from insufficient production of thyroid hormone and can cause symptoms including weight gain, lethargy, and skin problems. Hypothyroidism is easily diagnosed through blood testing and is typically well-managed through daily medication.

Maintaining appropriate body weight throughout life contributes significantly to the Smooth Collie's health and longevity. Obesity increases stress on joints and may shorten lifespan. The breed should maintain a lean, athletic build. Regular exercise and appropriate portion control help prevent weight gain while maintaining muscle tone.

Preventive care including vaccinations appropriate for the dog's lifestyle and region, regular parasite prevention, and annual or biannual veterinary examinations helps maintain health and detect problems early. Smooth Collies should receive heartworm prevention year-round in endemic areas, remembering that MDR1-affected dogs require specific preventive products at appropriate doses.

Senior care becomes important as Smooth Collies reach their later years, typically around age 8 to 10. Older dogs may benefit from more frequent veterinary examinations, adjustments to diet and exercise, and modifications to the home environment. Many Smooth Collies remain active and healthy well into their early teens with appropriate senior care.

If you're looking to adopt a Collie, consider contacting these breed-specific rescue organizations:

"Don't Shop... Please Adopt" - There are many wonderful Collies waiting for their forever homes.