April 27, 2025, 12:24 pm | Read time: 5 minutes
The Smooth Collie is considered a hidden gem for dog enthusiasts seeking an intelligent, loyal, and low-maintenance companion. Less well-known than its long-haired counterpart, this breed combines classic Collie virtues with a sporty appearance and practical, weather-resistant coat. Its elegance and gentle nature make it an ideal family dog, provided its needs are met.
Although the Smooth Collie matches the TV star “Lassie” in intelligence and sociability, it lives in the shadow of the Rough Collie. This is unjust, as the smooth-coated variant of the Scottish Shepherd Dog shines with robustness, strong character, and an exceptionally pleasant nature.
Originally bred for work in the milder regions of Scotland, the Smooth Collie has evolved over generations into a reliable family dog, even suitable for beginners. Its high learning ability, combined with sensitivity and sociability, requires empathetic yet clear leadership. Those seeking a dog that is both athletic and affectionate will find a loyal partner in the Smooth Collie.
Origin of the Smooth Collie
The Smooth Collie, also known as the “Short-haired Collie,” originates from Scotland, like its long-haired relative. Scottish shepherd dogs have been used for herding sheep for centuries. While the Rough Collie dominated the rugged Highlands, the Smooth Collie developed in the milder Lowlands as a functional alternative. It required no long, high-maintenance coat and was thus better suited to the local climatic conditions.
In England, the Smooth Collie was appreciated early on and was included in its own judging classes at dog shows as early as 1870. On the European mainland, however, the breed remained unknown for a long time. It wasn’t until 1961 that the first breeding animals were imported to Germany, laying the foundation for today’s breeding base. Despite its qualities, the Smooth Collie is still considered a rare breed in Germany. However, with its elegant appearance and balanced nature, it is gaining popularity among enthusiasts of British herding dogs.
Appearance & Coat
The Smooth Collie has an elegant, powerful silhouette with an athletic build. Males reach a shoulder height of 22 to 24 inches and weigh 45 to 65 pounds, while females are 20 to 22 inches and weigh 40 to 55 pounds. Despite their slender build, Smooth Collies are muscular and never appear clumsy. Characteristics include a long, wedge-shaped head with a gentle stop and semi-erect tipped ears.
The expression of the Collie is characterized by almond-shaped, dark eyes that exude intelligence and attentiveness. The coat consists of short, flat-lying, hard outer hair and dense undercoat — it should not be cut or trimmed according to the standard. Three color variants are recognized: sable-white (ranging from light gold to dark mahogany), tricolor (black with tan and white markings), and blue-merle (silvery blue with black speckles). All color types can have typical white markings on the chest, paws, neck, and tail tip.
Character & Temperament
The Smooth Collie is considered a friendly, balanced, and sensitive family dog. It is highly people-oriented, seeks closeness to its caregiver, and is reluctant to let them out of sight. Its nature is often described as gentle, loyal, and affectionate. At the same time, it brings the necessary alertness to protect home and family — without appearing aggressive.
Despite its sensitive nature, the Smooth Collie shows courage and self-confidence when needed. It is initially reserved with strangers but quickly warms up with positive experiences. Its intelligence, eagerness to work, and willingness to learn make it ideal for dog sports, assistance tasks, and family life. It gets along well with children and other pets and proves to be a balanced, cheerful companion in everyday life.
Training a Smooth Collie
Smooth Collies are very capable learners and enjoy working with people. They require consistent but loving training based on trust and understanding. Due to their sensitivity, harsh training methods should be avoided. Early socialization is important to help them adapt to different people, animals, and situations.
Even though they tend to bark, this can be well managed through engagement and targeted training. Their high willingness to cooperate and desire to please make training with a Smooth Collie particularly enjoyable — even for dedicated beginners with some dog experience.
Proper Care & Maintenance
The Smooth Collie is an active, people-oriented dog that is not suited for kennel life. It wants to live in close contact with its family and needs daily mental and physical activity. Long walks, brain games, or dog sports provide the necessary stimulation. Despite its temperament, it is calm and pleasant indoors.
Its care is also possible in an apartment, provided there is enough exercise. Coat care is straightforward: regular brushing is sufficient, becoming more intensive only during seasonal shedding. Checking ears, teeth, and claws should be routine, as with any breed.
Nutrition
Smooth Collies do not have special dietary requirements. High-quality, protein-rich food forms the basis for health and vitality. Whether dry, wet food, or raw feeding, a balanced nutrient profile is important. Fresh water should always be available.
Occasionally, fresh meat or a meaty bone can be offered. Feeding should be adjusted to age, weight, and activity level to ensure good condition. Avoiding overweight is particularly important, as it can strain joints and overall health.
Susceptibility to Certain Diseases
The Smooth Collie is generally considered a robust and long-lived breed with a life expectancy of around 12 years. However, there are some hereditary diseases that are considered in responsible breeding. These include primarily MDR1 gene defect (drug intolerance), CEA (Collie Eye Anomaly), and hip dysplasia (HD).
Breeds of the blue-merle color are especially genetically associated with an increased risk of deafness or eye problems, making targeted breeding control necessary. Regular veterinary check-ups, genetic tests for breeding animals, and choosing a reputable breeder help minimize the risk.
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The Smooth Collie at a Glance
- Character: friendly, affectionate & intelligent
- Size: Males 22–24 inches, Females 20–22 inches
- Weight: Males 45–65 pounds, Females 40–55 pounds
- Coat: short, hard, with dense undercoat
- Special Features: Family and sports dog, also suitable for dedicated beginners