Highly intelligent, affectionate, and active, Collies are great protectors and family dogs. If youre considering getting a Border Collie, Figo outlines what you need to know.
Border Collies emerged in the rugged borderlands between Scotland and England, where farmers needed exceptional herding dogs with unmatched intelligence and work ethic. Developed primarily during the late 19th century, these dogs descended from various British herding breeds, including the Highland Collie and the Cumberland Sheepdog. The term “collie” derives from the Scottish Gaelic word “cuilean,” meaning useful dog – an apt description for these remarkably capable working animals.
The modern Border Collies lineage is often traced back to a single dog named Old Hemp, born in Northumberland in 1893. Owned by Adam Telfer, Old Hemp displayed extraordinary herding abilities that revolutionized sheepherding techniques with his quiet, controlled style. Rather than barking and nipping, he used his intense stare – now known as “the eye” – to control sheep movements. This distinctive technique became a hallmark of the breed and remains prized among herding enthusiasts today.
While Border Collies initially gained recognition exclusively for their working abilities, theyve since captured the hearts of families worldwide through their versatility and trainability. The International Sheep Dog Society was formed in 1906 to preserve the breeds working heritage, but it wasnt until 1976 that the breed was officially recognized by the Kennel Club in the UK. In America, the American Kennel Club finally granted full recognition in 1995, though many Border Collie enthusiasts continue to emphasize working ability over conformity to appearance standards, highlighting the ongoing balance between the breeds working roots and its growing popularity as a companion animal.
Border Collies are a sight to behold, embodying agility, strength, and intelligence in their athletic frame. Known for their keen gaze and remarkable herding ability, these dogs are medium-sized, with a body thats slightly longer than it is tall, allowing them effortless fluidity and speed in their movements. Their double coat can vary between smooth and rough textures, catering to a range of working and weather conditions. The coat colors are diverse, with the classic being black and white, but they can also be seen in blue merle, red, and brindle, among others, often adorned with distinctive markings that add to their eye-catching appearance.
Their heads are well-proportioned to their bodies, with alert ears that can be fully pricked or partially folded, reflecting their attentive nature. The eyes of a Border Collie are one of their most expressive features, usually dark, but those with merle coloring may have blue or odd-colored eyes. These eyes are windows to an intelligent and often intense soul, mirroring their focus and determination.
A Border Collies tail is another characteristic feature, typically carried low with an upward swirl at the end, wagging enthusiastically during moments of joy or when at work. Their overall appearance is one of balance and harmony, with no part being exaggerated or detracting from their ability to work tirelessly across diverse terrains.
The physical attributes of Border Collies not only make them exceptional working dogs but also versatile athletes in dog sports. Their appearance reflects their heritage and working lifestyle—built for stamina, speed, and agility, with a coat that protects them from the elements and a gaze that commands attention, making them one of the most recognizable and admired breeds in the canine world.
If youre looking for other dogs with similar traits to a Border Collie, consider the Shetland Sheepdog, Australian Cattle Dog, Australian Shepherd, or Bearded Collie.
Hey there, pet lovers! If you’re thinking about adding a furry friend to your family, you’ve probably asked yourself: “Are collies good family dogs?” Well, I’ve got some great news for ya – collies are fantastic family companions! As someone who’s spent years researching different dog breeds, I can confidently say that collies rank among the best family dogs out there.
In this article, I’ll share everything you need to know about these intelligent, loyal pups and why they might be the perfect addition to your home So grab a cup of coffee and let’s dive into the wonderful world of collies!
The Different Types of Collies
Before we go any further, it’s important to clarify that there are different types of collies that people often talk about:
- Border Collies: Known for their exceptional intelligence and high energy
- Rough Collies: The “Lassie” type with long, flowing coats
- Smooth Collies: Similar to Rough Collies but with shorter coats
While they share some similarities, each type has unique characteristics In this article, I’ll mainly focus on traditional collies (Rough and Smooth), but I’ll mention Border Collies too since they’re so popular.
Why Collies Make Excellent Family Dogs
That Amazing Collie Temperament
Collies are renowned for their gentle, friendly, and intelligent personalities. They form deep bonds with their human families and are incredibly loyal companions. These dogs are sensitive to human emotions and seem to understand when someone needs comfort – a quality that makes them exceptional family pets.
As the Southland Collie Rescue points out “Collies are sensitive and seem to understand how kids feel. They’re not aggressive and are very patient, even with the sometimes unpredictable actions of young children.”
Great With Children
One of the most important factors when choosing a family dog is how they interact with kids. Collies excel in this area! They have a natural protective instinct mixed with patience and gentleness that creates the perfect combination for families with children.
Their protective nature doesn’t mean they’re aggressive – quite the opposite! Collies watch over children without being threatening, making them wonderful playmates and guardians. However, it’s always important to supervise any dog’s interactions with small children, regardless of breed.
Intelligence and Trainability
If you’re looking for a smart dog that’s eager to please, collies definitely fit the bill! These dogs are highly intelligent and pick up commands quickly, making them relatively easy to train. This intelligence, combined with their desire to please their owners, means you’ll likely have fewer behavioral issues compared to some other breeds.
Their smarts also mean they can adapt to different family routines and living situations with proper training and socialization.
Border Collies: A Special Note
While traditional collies (Rough and Smooth) are generally calm and adaptable, Border Collies deserve special mention. These dogs are working machines with incredible energy levels and intelligence that can be challenging for some families.
According to Figo Pet Insurance, “Border Collies are worker dogs that love exercising and being active, which makes them great companions for those who enjoy outdoor activities.”
If you’re considering a Border Collie, be prepared for a dog that needs LOTS of exercise and mental stimulation. They’re amazing dogs, but not the right fit for every family. They need an active household that can provide plenty of physical and mental challenges.
The Pros of Having a Collie as a Family Dog
Let’s break down the biggest advantages of bringing a collie into your home:
1. Loyal and Protective
Collies develop deep bonds with their families and are naturally protective without being aggressive. They’ll alert you to potential dangers but aren’t typically excessive barkers (though Border Collies can be more vocal).
“Once a Collie loves you, they’re devoted for life. This deep bond extends to everyone in the family, giving a feeling of security and steady companionship,” notes Southland Collie Rescue.
2. Gentle and Patient
Their calm, patient nature makes collies excellent companions for families with children of all ages. They rarely react negatively to the sometimes unpredictable behavior of kids.
3. Highly Intelligent
Collies are among the smartest dog breeds, making them easy to train and capable of learning a wide variety of commands and tricks. This intelligence also means they can problem-solve and adapt to different situations.
4. Adaptable to Different Lifestyles
While they need regular exercise, collies can adapt to various living situations, from houses with yards to apartments (though Border Collies typically need more space and exercise than their cousins).
As noted by TryFi, “Collies are adaptable to both backyard and apartment life, but they do require regular exercise.”
The Challenges of Collie Ownership
No dog is perfect, and collies do come with some challenges that potential owners should be aware of:
1. Grooming Needs
Particularly for Rough Collies, that beautiful coat requires maintenance! Regular brushing is essential to prevent matting and manage shedding. Border Collies also have a double coat that sheds year-round.
“Border Collies have a medium-length double coat that sheds year-round. They’re beautiful dogs but require regular brushing to keep their coats healthy and shiny,” according to Figo Pet Insurance.
2. Exercise Requirements
While traditional collies have moderate exercise needs, Border Collies are high-energy and require significant daily physical activity and mental stimulation. Without proper outlets for their energy, they can develop behavioral problems.
3. Health Considerations
Like all purebred dogs, collies can be prone to certain health issues. These may include:
- Eye problems (especially Collie Eye Anomaly)
- Hip dysplasia
- Epilepsy
- Drug sensitivities
Regular veterinary care and choosing a responsible breeder can help mitigate these risks.
4. Need for Attention
Collies are social dogs that crave human interaction. They don’t do well when left alone for extended periods and may develop separation anxiety or destructive behaviors if not given enough attention.
Border Collies: Special Considerations
If you’re specifically interested in Border Collies, there are some additional factors to consider:
1. Intense Energy Levels
Border Collies were bred to work all day herding sheep. They have seemingly endless energy and need significant daily exercise – a quick walk around the block won’t cut it!
2. Herding Instincts
Their strong herding instincts can cause them to chase and nip at children or other pets in an attempt to “herd” them. This behavior needs to be managed through training.
Figo Pet Insurance notes, “While Border Collies can make great family pets, they should not be left alone with young kids. Their herding instincts can cause them to chase and nip at children.”
3. Mental Stimulation Requirements
Border Collies are incredibly smart and need mental challenges as much as physical exercise. Puzzle toys, training sessions, and dog sports are great ways to keep their minds engaged.
Is a Collie Right for Your Family?
After looking at all the pros and cons, how do you know if a collie is the right fit for your family? Here are some questions to ask yourself:
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Do you have time for regular grooming? If brushing a dog several times a week sounds like a chore you’ll resent, a Rough Collie might not be ideal (though a Smooth Collie could work).
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How active is your family? Collies need regular exercise, and Border Collies need LOTS of it. If your family enjoys outdoor activities, this could be a perfect match.
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Is someone home most of the day? Collies don’t like being alone for long periods.
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Do you have young children? Traditional collies are excellent with kids, but Border Collies might need extra training to manage herding behaviors.
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Are you committed to training? Collies are smart and trainable, but they still need consistent guidance to be their best selves.
Finding Your Collie
If you’ve decided a collie is right for your family, you have two main options:
1. Adoption
Many wonderful collies end up in rescue organizations or shelters. Organizations like Southland Collie Rescue specialize in finding homes for collies in need. Adoption gives a deserving dog a second chance and often costs less than purchasing from a breeder.
2. Reputable Breeders
If you decide to purchase a puppy, do your research to find a responsible breeder who prioritizes health and temperament over appearance. Good breeders will:
- Provide health clearances for both parent dogs
- Allow you to meet at least one of the parents
- Have clean, spacious facilities
- Ask you questions to ensure their puppies go to good homes
- Offer support after you take your puppy home
TryFi advises, “When looking for a Collie puppy, it is important to choose a reputable breeder. A reputable breeder will prioritize the health and well-being of their dogs.”
The Lifetime Commitment
Remember, bringing any dog into your family is a long-term commitment. Collies typically live 12-15 years, so you’re signing up for over a decade of care, love, and responsibility.
The financial commitment is significant too. According to Figo Pet Insurance, “The lifetime cost of a Border Collie can vary, but you can expect to spend around $20,000 throughout your dog’s life. On average, that’s about $1,500 per year.”
This includes food, routine veterinary care, grooming, and other essentials. Pet insurance can help manage unexpected medical expenses, typically costing between $30-$50 per month for a collie.
Final Thoughts: Yes, Collies Make Great Family Dogs!
So, to answer the original question: Yes, collies generally make excellent family dogs! Their loyal, gentle, and intelligent nature makes them wonderful companions for families of all types.
Traditional collies (Rough and Smooth) are typically more laid-back and adaptable to family life, while Border Collies are high-energy working dogs that need very active families.
With proper training, socialization, and care, a collie can be an amazing addition to your family – bringing years of love, loyalty, and those famous “collie cuddles” that owners rave about.
Have you had experience with collies in a family setting? I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
The good, the bad, the ugly
Are you considering getting a Border Collie? These dogs are known for their loyal, intelligent, and energetic personalities but can be a handful. Here are some traits and health factors to keep in mind:
- Shedding: Border Collies have a medium-length double coat that sheds year-round. They’re beautiful dogs but require regular brushing to keep their coats healthy and shiny. During shedding season, you may need to brush them more frequently to help manage the hair they leave around your home.
- Need for Attention: Border Collies are a social breed and require a lot of attention from their owners. They can be destructive or develop behavioral issues when left alone without mental and physical stimulation. Spending time with your Border Collie and keeping them busy is key to their happiness.
- Health issues: Border Collies are prone to certain health conditions, including hip dysplasia, eye issues, and epilepsy. A balanced diet and exercise can help mitigate some of these issues. Still, they should be considered before getting a Border Collie.
- Always on Alert: Border Collies are vigilant, making them great protectors quick to detect unusual activity. While this makes them effective watchdogs, it also means that they can be prone to excessive barking. Border Collies are smart, though, so they can be trained to know when its appropriate to bark and when to be quiet. It’s also worth noting that they’re particularly reactive to noises like fireworks, which can result in destructive, panicking behavior.
- Concerns with Children: While Border Collies can make great family pets, they should not be left alone with young kids. Their herding instincts can cause them to chase and nip at children. Displays of affection like jumping and roughhousing can be more intense than intended. Supervising interactions between Collies and children is important until they both know how to play together safely and respectfully.
Border Collies make great companions, but like all breeds, each dog has its own traits and temperament to be aware of. A Border Collie can make a great pet with the right training and care.
Are Border Collies hypoallergenic?
Border Collies are not hypoallergenic. They have a thick double coat that sheds frequently, which can cause allergies in some people.
However, regular grooming and bathing can help reduce the amount of dander and hair in their environment, which may help people with mild allergies tolerate being around them.
Looking for an allergy-friendly dog? Weve got you covered with our guide to hypoallergenic breeds.
Border Collies are known for their loyal, intelligent, and energetic nature. They are affectionate dogs that make great family pets. However, their herding instincts can get in the way of socializing with strangers and young children, and they can be big barkers when on alert at home.
Border Collies are worker dogs that love exercising and being active, which makes them great companions for those who enjoy outdoor activities.
Border Collies need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Many Border Collies enjoy playing fetch, frisbee, and other games with their owners. Theyre also great runners, so taking them for a jog or dog-friendly hike can be a great way to bond while keeping you and your pup active.
Border Collies are generally healthy dogs but can be prone to certain health issues. Some common concerns include hip dysplasia, eye problems (such as cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy, and collie eye anomaly), epilepsy, allergies, and cancer.
Border Collie Pros and Cons ( You Need To Know )
FAQ
Are Collie a good family dog?
The Collie is one of the most popular family dogs around. Their natural affinity for children, easy-going nature, and amazing sensitivity towards the needs of their family make them a great choice for pretty much anyone. As long as you can provide them with quality companionship and plenty of exercise they will do well.
Are Border Collies good family dogs?
Border Collies easily keep up during family activities and do great in very active families. Border Collies can keep up on runs, hikes, and playtime in the backyard. They’ll love joining in on your family activities. However, you must be extremely active to keep up with these dogs. They need vigorous exercise every day–not just daily walks.
What makes a collie a good dog?
Read on to learn more about the Collie. Their lean bodies are strong, agile, and lithe. These attributes make them true athletes and, combined with their intelligence, excellent herders. It is thanks to Queen Victoria that these Scottish dogs became such an iconic breed.
Is a Border Collie suitable for first-time owners?
Border Collies can be an excellent choice for first-time owners who are looking for a reliable and intelligent dog that will always do as it’s told. A border collie will do exactly as it’s told in agility training or any other activity.
Is a Border Collie loyal?
Border Collies are known for their loyalty. They place their loyalty and sense of family with their owner and see themselves as a pack member. If a Border Collie is brought into your home, then it may view itself as an equal to humans and other pets in the household.
What can a Border Collie do for a living?
Herding, dog sports, and even made-up jobs are all great for Border Collies. If you have a job for your border collie to perform, they’ll thrive in your home. Not everyone lives on a farm with livestock to herd, but you can also create jobs such as finding your keys, fetching bottles of water for the family, or putting away toys.
What are the cons of owning a Collie?
- High Energy Level. …
- Need for Mental Stimulation. …
- Prone to Separation Anxiety. …
- High Prey Drive. …
- Potential Health Issues. …
- Not Ideal for Small Living Spaces. …
- Barking. …
- Strong Herding Instincts.
Is a Collie a good house dog?
Are Collies high maintenance?
Yes, especially Border Collies, are generally considered high-maintenance due to their high intelligence and energy, which requires significant daily physical and mental stimulation to prevent boredom, destructive behaviors, and anxiety. Rough Collies also have high grooming needs due to their double coat. Without proper engagement, a Collie’s needs can become demanding, making them best suited for active owners who can provide consistent training, exercise, and mental challenges.
What is the #1 nicest dog breed?
1. Labrador Retriever. Still one of the most popular family pets, Labrador Retrievers are fun, gentle, and loyal – and they can be excellent dogs for kids. Labs relish spending time with people and will likely become your child’s best friend quickly.