Collie Smooth
Also known as Collie A Poil Court · Kurzhaariger Schottischer Schaferhund · Collie de Pelo Corto
Great Britain, Sheepdogs
- Size
- Large
- Height
- 51–61 cm
- Weight
- 18–30 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–14 yrs
- Gentle
- Intelligent
- Loyal
- Sensitive
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Collie Smooth
The Smooth Collie is the short-coated variety of the Scottish collie, developed as a herding dog. It has a sleek, dense, smooth coat with an undercoat, a wedge-shaped head and a graceful, athletic build. It comes in sable, tricolour or blue merle and is also a gentle family companion. It is the smooth-coated counterpart of the Rough Collie and shares its gentle character.
Temperament
Usually gentle, intelligent and loyal, with a sensitive nature. It tends to bond closely to family and responds best to kind, positive training. It can be vocal and reserved with strangers.
Exercise
Needs daily walks and play, along with mental stimulation such as training and games.
Grooming
The smooth, dense coat needs brushing weekly, more often during heavy moulting.
Care & wellbeing
Keep weight healthy and check for ticks after walks.
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
- A brush once a week
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 Smooth
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
The short-coated counterpart of the Rough Collie, from the same British herding stock in Scotland and northern England. It was developed for working sheep and cattle. It is gentle, intelligent and easier to groom than its long-coated cousin.
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 Smooth 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
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- 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 Smooth right for you?
Could suit
- Owners who can manage a good walk or two each day
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
- First-time owners prepared to train consistently
Think twice if
- 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 Smooth get?
Adult Collie Smooths 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 Smooths 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 Smooth 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 Smooth need?
A brush once a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Collie Smooths easy to train?
Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.
Do Collie Smooths shed?
A moderate amount. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Collie Smooths 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 Smooth live in a flat?
It can work — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Collie Smooths have?
The breed can be prone to collie eye anomaly (cea), mdr1 drug sensitivity, progressive retinal atrophy (pra). Not every Collie Smooth 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
- 1974