Species group: Herding Group dogs

Other name(s): Smooth Collie; Smooth-coat Collie

The basics:
The Smooth Collie is the short-haired version of the original Collie. Like other herding dogs developed in Scotland and Northern England, this dog is highly regarded for its intelligence, alertness, and loyalty. The desire to work and the ability to solve puzzles hasn't been bred out of this beautiful version of an old-time herder. As a result, you can expect a dog who is responsive and energetic, as well as beautiful. This is not the choice for someone who just wants a pretty pet to pose on a cushion.

Like other herding dogs developed in Scotland and Northern England, the Smooth Collie is highly regarded for its intelligence, alertness, and loyalty. The desire to work and the ability to solve puzzles hasn't been bred out of this beautiful version of an old-time herder. As a result, you can expect a dog who is responsive and energetic, as well as beautiful. This is not the choice for someone who just wants a pretty pet to pose on a cushion.

Is the Smooth Collie a true breed or just a variety of the Collie? It seems to depend on who you ask. In the US and Canada, the Collie is the breed, and the smooth and rough Collies are simply two varieties you may choose from. In the UK and Australia, the Smooth Collie may be accepted as a separate that should no longer be interbred with Rough Collies. However, the Kennel Club does point out that the two breeds separated so recently that there are probably no real differences between the two other than the coat. Which Collie you choose may be a simple matter of aesthetics.

Be aware that a responsive, intelligent dog like the Smooth Collie can be sensitive. Gentle guidance is important. Get training if you are unsure of how to work with your pet using verbal commands.

Appearance / health:
The Smooth Collie is a graceful, slender dog with great strength and elegance. The head is in the form of a blunt wedge, and tapers gradually from the ears to the black nose. The medium-sized eyes are almond shaped and neither too large nor prominent. The ears are semi-erect with one-fourth of the ear tipping forward. The neck is firm and muscular. The length of the muscular body is slightly more than the height.

Collies require regular brushing. They shed heavily twice a year. A thorough brushing down once a week may take care of mats and tangles. Smooth Collies have a short double coat that requires minimal grooming; brushing with a steel brush is sufficient to remove any loose hair.

Collies are very energetic and become easily bored if left alone for long durations. They require a lot of exercise to remain fit and healthy. They love to run long distances.

There are a few health issues which can affect Collies. They include: Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA), an inherited eye disease; autoimmune disorders such as discoid lupus (aka "collie nose"); dermatomyositis and colitis of various types including inflammatory bowel disease; and bloat and torsion (gastrodilation-volvulus). Collies also carry a mutation known as MDR1 (75% of Collies are affected in some way) that causes them to be hypersensitive to certain drugs and medications. Ivermectin and other anti-helminths can be fatal at normal therapeutic doses, but there is a genetic test now so you can find out your collie's drug sensitivity status. All of these problems have a genetic basis and can be minimized by responsible breeding practices, so puppy buyers should look for reputable breeders.

Behavior / temperament:
Collies are family dogs that dislike being chained or tied up. They retain many of their innate herding skills and make outstanding working dogs. Smooth Collies are sometimes used as assistance dogs for physically handicapped people. Collies are also used as therapy dogs, rescue dogs, and drug-detection dogs. They love to chase moving objects and are car chasers.

Collies are quick learners. They are excellent obedience dogs. This breed responds better to a soft tone of voice during training, and they understand corrections quickly. They may be stubborn and unwilling to learn if force is used. Positive reinforcement methods work really well with this breed.

Collies are noisy barkers and bark when they spot a stranger or simply to gain attention.