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Rough Collie
Herding breed from Scotland
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Rough Collie
The Rough Collie is a large herding dog originating from Scotland. It is known for its long, profuse double coat and intelligent expression. The breed is described as intelligent, loyal, devoted, gentle, protective, alert, and athletic. Individual temperaments vary, but these traits are commonly associated with the breed. Rough Collies have a high energy level (score 4 out of 5) and are highly trainable (score 4). They require significant grooming (score 4) and shed heavily (score 4). They are generally well-suited to children (score 4) but may be less compatible with other dogs (score 3) and are not ideal for apartment living (score 2). Estimated adult weight ranges from 27 to 34 kg for both sexes, and estimated height ranges from 61 to 66 cm. Estimated lifespan is 12 to 14 years.
Quick facts
Rough Collie at a glance
Sizelarge
Breed groupHerding
OriginScotland
Lifespan12–14 years
Male weight27–34 kilogram
Female weight27–34 kilogram
Male height61–66 centimetre
Female height61–66 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Rough Collie was developed in the Scottish Highlands and Northern England as a versatile sheep-herding dog. Its exact origins are not precisely documented, but it is believed to have been bred from local herding dogs. The breed's popularity increased significantly after Queen Victoria became an enthusiast in the 19th century, though the specific date of this interest is not provided. The fictional character 'Lassie' later made the Rough Collie a global icon, further cementing its place in popular culture. The breed is classified in the Herding group, and its recognition status varies by registry, meaning not all kennel clubs may recognize it uniformly.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
27–34 kilogramAdult weight61–66 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesLong, DoubleCoat colorsPendingRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Intelligentloyaldevotedgentleprotectivealertathletic
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1–5 methodologyDaily care profile
Higher daily exercise demand
Typically responsive to training
Higher coat-maintenance demand
Higher shedding tendency
Family suitability
Home and household fit
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Climate suitability
Modelled tendency · medium confidence
Modelled tendency · medium confidence
Modelled tendency · medium confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
Health overview
Veterinary sources requiredHealth considerations
No Rough Collie-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Veterinary disclaimer: This profile is educational and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian.
Feeding overview
Nutrition and feeding
Research in progress
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Decision support
Potential advantages and challenges
Potential advantages
- Typically responsive to consistent training.Supported by trainabilityScore: 4
- Can be a strong family match when socialized and supervised.Supported by childSuitability: 4
- Commonly described as loyal.Supported by temperaments.loyal: true
Potential challenges
- Higher daily exercise and enrichment needs may not suit every household.Supported by energyScore: 4
- Higher shedding can require frequent coat and home maintenance.Supported by sheddingScore: 4
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Growth chart
Rough Collie puppy growth
Modeled estimates
Open interactive chart From puppy weight to adult size
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
Adult male weight27–34 kilogramAdult female weight27–34 kilogramGrowth modeladult-range-size-model-v1
Preview only. Open the complete chart to adjust age, current weight and measurement units.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
What is the size and lifespan of a Rough Collie?
Rough Collies are large dogs. Estimated adult weight for both males and females is 27 to 34 kg, and estimated height is 61 to 66 cm. Estimated lifespan is 12 to 14 years. These are modelled estimates and may vary.
What is the temperament of a Rough Collie?
Commonly described temperaments include intelligent, loyal, devoted, gentle, protective, alert, and athletic. However, individual dogs may vary, and not every Rough Collie will display all these traits.
How much exercise does a Rough Collie need?
Rough Collies have a high energy level (score 4 out of 5), so they require regular, vigorous exercise. They are athletic dogs that benefit from activities like running, hiking, or herding games.
What are the grooming requirements for a Rough Collie?
Grooming needs are high (score 4) due to the long, double coat. They shed heavily (score 4) and require frequent brushing to prevent mats and manage loose hair.
Is a Rough Collie suitable for families with children?
Rough Collies generally have good child suitability (score 4 out of 5), but individual temperament varies. They are often gentle and protective, making them a potential fit for families, but supervision and proper introduction are always recommended.
Can a Rough Collie live in an apartment?
Apartment suitability is low (score 2 out of 5). Rough Collies are large, high-energy dogs that do best with space to move. They may adapt to apartment life if given sufficient exercise, but it is not ideal.
Where did the Rough Collie originate?
The Rough Collie originated in Scotland, specifically the Scottish Highlands and Northern England. It was developed as a herding dog, but exact historical details are not fully documented.
Data transparency
✓ Published · VerifiedSources and review status
APIThe Dog API ↗The Dog API Terms of Service (effective 2023-07-01)
VETERINARY SOURCEWSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines and Toolkit ↗Copyright; factual citation and original summary only
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.