Collie Rough
Also known as Collie A Poil Long · Langhaariger Schottischer Schaferhund · Collie de Pelo Largo
Great Britain, Sheepdogs
- Size
- Large
- Height
- 51–61 cm
- Weight
- 18–30 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–14 yrs
- Gentle
- Intelligent
- Devoted
- Sensitive
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Collie Rough
The Rough Collie is a long-coated herding dog from Scotland, developed to work with sheep in the Highlands and later made famous as a family companion. It has a long, abundant coat with a mane and frill, a slender, wedge-shaped head and a gentle, alert expression. It comes in sable, tricolour or blue merle.
Temperament
Usually gentle, intelligent and devoted, with a sensitive nature. It tends to be good with family and bond closely, and it responds best to kind, positive training. It can be vocal.
Exercise
Needs daily walks and play, along with mental stimulation such as training and games.
Grooming
The long double coat needs brushing several times a week, more during heavy moulting.
Care & wellbeing
Keep coat tidy, check for mats and ticks, and watch weight.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 24 kg adult- Water
- 960 ml–1.4 L
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 1,210 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 60–90 min
- a day
- Grooming
- Brushing most days
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Collie Rough
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
A British herding breed from the Scottish Highlands and the north of England, originally a working sheepdog. It became widely popular after being taken up as a companion in Victorian times. It is gentle, intelligent and responsive, with a long, flowing coat.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Collie eye anomaly (CEA)
- MDR1 drug sensitivity
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
- Dermatomyositis
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Eye tests
- DNA test for MDR1
- DNA test for CEA
- Hip scores
Not every Collie Rough is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
Higher than average- Food, insurance and medicines cost more for a big dog
- Regular professional grooming adds up
- A 12–14 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Collie Rough right for you?
Could suit
- Owners who can manage a good walk or two each day
- First-time owners prepared to train consistently
Think twice if
- You don't have time for frequent brushing or the cost of professional grooming
- You need a dog you can easily lift or carry
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Collie Rough get?
Adult Collie Roughs typically stand about 51–61 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 18–30 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Collie Roughs live?
Typically 12–14 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Collie Rough need?
As a guide, around 60–90 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Collie Rough need?
Brushing most days. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Collie Roughs easy to train?
Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.
Do Collie Roughs shed?
Quite a lot. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control — expect more around spring and autumn.
Are Collie Roughs good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Collie Rough live in a flat?
It can work — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Collie Roughs have?
The breed can be prone to collie eye anomaly (cea), mdr1 drug sensitivity, progressive retinal atrophy (pra). Not every Collie Rough is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Great Britain
- Type
- Sheepdogs
- Internationally recognised
- 1955