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Collie Smooth - MAIN HUB

The Smooth Collie is a loyal, brainy companion with a sleek coat and a heart of gold. Perfect for active families seeking a devoted, easy-care best friend.

BREED GROUP

Herding Dogs

Country of origin

United Kingdom

BREED SIZE

Large

BREED HEIGHT

22 -

26 IN

56 -

66 cm

BREED WEIGHT

50 -

75 LB

23 -

34 KG

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

The Smooth Collie is an intelligent, loyal, and agile herding breed originating from the United Kingdom. Often described as a shorter-coated version of the Rough Collie, it offers a similar devoted temperament with significantly lower grooming needs. These medium-to-large dogs are exceptionally friendly, making them excellent family companions that are generally good with children and other pets. However, they require regular physical exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom-led barking or herding behaviors. Highly trainable and sensitive, they thrive on positive reinforcement and close human companionship.
american kennel club (AKC) recognition

Yes

Breed was recognized in 1885.

International Canine Federation (FCI) recognition

Yes

Breed was recognized in 1955.

WHAT DO OWNERS WANT TO KNOW?

Are Collie Smooths good family dogs?

Excellent

9 out of 10

The Smooth Collie is an excellent family companion due to its exceptionally friendly, loyal, and devoted temperament. They are generally good with children and other pets, though they require regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay well-behaved. Their lower grooming needs and highly trainable nature make them a practical choice for families seeking a sensitive and close human connection.

Excellent

9 out of 10

Smooth Collies are generally excellent with children, known for their gentle, patient, and protective nature. They form deep bonds with family members and are famously fond of kids, making them reliable and affectionate companions. While their herding instinct might lead them to occasionally "guide" or "herd" moving children, this behavior is easily managed with consistent training and supervision. Early socialization ensures they remain calm, nurturing, and well-behaved playmates for children of all ages.

Good

7 out of 10

Smooth Collies are generally well-suited for first-time owners due to their exceptional intelligence, eagerness to please, and lower grooming needs compared to the Rough Collie. While their sensitivity requires gentle, positive reinforcement and they need consistent mental and physical stimulation to prevent boredom, their adaptable and friendly nature makes them a rewarding and practical choice for novice owners committed to an active lifestyle.

Excellent

9 out of 10

Smooth Collies can adapt to apartment living if owners are committed to providing the necessary physical exercise and mental stimulation. While they are relatively quiet and calm indoors, they require several daily walks to satisfy their active herding nature. Their intelligence and sensitive temperament make them polite neighbors, though they may bark if bored or left alone for too long.

Very Low

8 out of 10

A yard is not strictly required for a Smooth Collie, as they are highly adaptable and can thrive in various living environments if their physical and mental needs are met. While a fenced yard provides a convenient space for play and exercise, daily brisk walks and interactive games are sufficient to keep this intelligent herding breed healthy and content.

Below Average

4 out of 10

Smooth Collies are highly social dogs that thrive on human companionship and are not recommended for homes where they will be left alone for long periods. While well-trained adults can typically manage four to six hours of solitude, prolonged isolation often leads to separation anxiety, destructive behavior, or excessive barking. They are most content in households where they are integrated into daily activities and receive consistent mental and physical engagement.

Good

7 out of 10

Smooth Collies generally get along well with cats due to their gentle, friendly, and non-aggressive nature. While their herding instinct may occasionally lead them to chase or "guide" feline housemates, they are known to form deep, affectionate bonds with other pets, especially when socialized together from a young age. Early introductions and consistent training help ensure a peaceful and harmonious multi-pet household.

Very Gentle

9 out of 10

Smooth Collies are not inherently aggressive; they are famously gentle, loyal, and friendly companions. While they possess a protective instinct toward their family and may act as vocal watchdogs, they are typically non-confrontational and respond poorly to harsh treatment. Their herding background may lead to "nipping" at heels during play, but this is a manageable instinct rather than true aggression. Socialization and positive reinforcement ensure they remain well-adjusted and affectionate family members.

Moderate

3 out of 10

Smooth Collies are intelligent, agile herding dogs with low to moderate energy levels compared to other working breeds. While they require regular daily exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom-led behaviors like barking or herding, they are known to relax and settle down nicely once indoors. They thrive on activities that challenge their intellect and enjoy being active with their families, but they are not as hyperactive as some other herding varieties.

1-2 hours a day

3 out of 10

Smooth Collies are active herding dogs that require approximately 1 to 2 hours of daily exercise to stay physically and mentally fit. A balanced routine should include brisk walks, off-leash running, and engaging activities like fetch or agility training. Because of their high intelligence, they also need regular mental stimulation through puzzle toys and obedience sessions to prevent boredom-led behaviors like excessive barking.

Average

5 out of 10

Smooth Collies have a moderate tolerance for heat, but their dense coats can trap warmth, making them prone to overheating in high temperatures. Owners should provide constant access to shade, fresh water, and air conditioning during hot days. It is essential to limit exercise to cooler morning or evening hours and avoid walking on hot pavement to protect their paws. While they adapt well to indoor living with AC, they should never be overexerted in the heat.

Average

5 out of 10

Smooth Collies have a moderate tolerance for heat, but their dense coats can trap warmth, making them prone to overheating in high temperatures. Owners should provide constant access to shade, fresh water, and air conditioning during hot days. It is essential to limit exercise to cooler morning or evening hours and avoid walking on hot pavement to protect their paws. While they adapt well to indoor living with AC, they should never be overexerted in the heat.

Low Risk

7 out of 10

Smooth Collies are rarely subject to breed bans as they are generally regarded as friendly and non-aggressive companions. However, their medium-to-large size may occasionally exceed common apartment weight limits, typically ranging between 25 and 50 pounds. Potential owners should verify specific landlord policies regarding weight restrictions and noise regulations, as their herding nature can sometimes lead to vocal barking if they become bored.

WHAT DO OWNERS WANT TO KNOW?


Photo
Reviewed by
Dr. Vojtech Gabriel
DVM · PhD · MBA
Veterinarian Researcher Dog breed specialist
Verified
"Smooth Collies are a generally healthy and long-lived breed, but they are predisposed to several inherited conditions that require proactive management. As a veterinarian, I prioritize genetic screening for Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA) and Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA-rcd2), both of which can lead to vision loss or blindness. It is also critical to test for the MDR1 gene mutation, as affected dogs have life-threatening sensitivities to common medications like ivermectin. Additionally, I monitor for dermatomyositis (DMS), hip dysplasia, and gastric dilatation-volvulus (bloat). To ensure a healthy life, I recommend maintaining a lean body weight to prevent joint stress and obesity-related issues, along with regular veterinary eye exams beginning in puppyhood."

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