Collie
Male: 20-34 kg, Female: 18-29 kg
51-66 cm at the shoulder (Males: 56-66 cm, Females: 51-61 cm)
12-14 years
Scotland
About the Collie
The Collie is a graceful and powerful worker, celebrated for its intelligence and deep devotion to its family. Originating from the rugged Highlands of Scotland, this breed was refined during the Victorian era into two distinct varieties: the majestic, long-haired Rough Collie and the sleek, short-haired Smooth Collie. Both varieties share the same anatomical standard, characterised by a wedge-shaped head, almond-shaped eyes that convey a 'sweet' expression, and a lithe, athletic build suited for long days of herding. In the home, Collies are remarkably intuitive and sensitive to the emotions of their owners, making them exceptional companions and therapy dogs. While they are energetic and require regular physical activity, they are also known for their ability to 'settle' indoors once their needs are met. Their protective nature is usually expressed through alarm barking rather than aggression, as they are naturally wary of strangers but incredibly gentle with their inner circle.
Breed Standard
Key characteristics from the breed standard
In the show ring, the Collie is defined by its 'reach and drive'—a seamless, effortless gait that suggests the ability to cover vast distances with minimal fatigue. The head is a point of great importance, requiring a perfectly smooth, wedge-shaped profile with a flat skull and a perceptible but slight 'stop'. The expression is perhaps the breed's most unique trait: it must be intelligent, alert, yet infinitely sweet, achieved through the combination of almond-shaped, dark eyes and semi-erect ears that tip forward when at attention.
In Australia
The Collie served as a foundational sheepdog, essential to the early development of the Australian pastoral industry. While the exact year of the first Collie's arrival in Australia is not recorded, early working types were present from the first half of the 19th century. The breed was present in Australia by the mid-19th century, with notable imports such as those by Thomas Simpson Hall in the 1840s. Additionally, the Collie contributed significantly to the development of several Australian working breeds, including the Australian Kelpie and the Australian Cattle Dog.
Bred For
Herding and droving sheep in the Scottish Highlands.
Temperament
Devoted, gentle, intelligent, sensitive, and protective.
Health Conditions Reported in the Breed
Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA), (), MDR1 (Multi-Drug Resistance) gene mutation, Dermatomyositis, (), and .
Exercise Needs
Moderate to high. Requires daily long walks, jogging, or active play sessions totaling 60-90 minutes, along with mental stimulation.
Grooming Needs
Rough Collies require daily brushing to prevent matting and manage shedding. Smooth Collies require weekly brushing. Both need regular nail trims and ear cleaning.
Living Suitability
Suited to houses with medium to large yards; not ideal for small apartments unless very high exercise needs are met daily.
Good with Kids
Excellent with children of all ages due to their gentle and protective nature.
Good with Other Pets
Generally very good with other dogs and household pets, though they may occasionally try to 'herd' them.
Trainability
Highly intelligent and eager to please, though they are sensitive and respond best to positive reinforcement and gentle correction.
Coat & Colours
Two varieties: Rough (long, harsh, straight outer coat with soft furry undercoat) and Smooth (short, hard, flat, and dense).. Sable and white, Tricolour (black/tan/white), Blue Merle, and White.
Exercise needs vary by age, fitness, health, weather and individual temperament. Consult your veterinarian for an exercise plan appropriate for your dog.
Things to Consider
Every breed has its quirks — here's what to know
Collies are predisposed to the MDR1 gene mutation, which makes them dangerously sensitive to certain common medications, including some parasite preventatives and anaesthetics; owners must ensure their vet is aware or have the dog tested. They are more likely to experience Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA), a hereditary condition affecting the development of the eye—while many live normal lives, it is vital to source from tested parents. Being a herding breed, they can be quite vocal, often using a 'warning bark' for any perceived changes in their environment, which requires consistent training to manage. The Rough variety is a heavy shedder, particularly during seasonal changes, requiring significant grooming time to prevent painful matting and 'hot spots' on the skin. They are also sensitive to loud noises and a harsh tone of voice, so they thrive best in a calm, encouraging household. Like many deep-chested breeds, they are more likely to develop Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (Bloat), so feeding smaller, frequent meals and avoiding vigorous exercise immediately after eating is a wise precaution. While they are energetic, they are devoted 'shadow dogs' and may experience separation anxiety if left alone for very long periods without companionship.
Feeding Guide for Your Collie
Healthy Weight
18-34 kg
Daily Feeding Amount (general starting estimate)
500-850 grams
For an adult Collie, a fresh or raw diet should focus on lean proteins and essential fats. It is recommended to feed between 2% and 3% of their ideal body weight daily. For a typical 25 kg adult, this equates to approximately 500g to 750g of fresh food per day, split into two meals.
Feeding quantities are general starting estimates only. Individual needs vary with body condition, weight trends, age, health and activity. Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition — consult a veterinarian for individualised dietary guidance.
Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition. Seek veterinary or qualified canine nutrition guidance for individualised dietary advice. Raw feeding, specific proteins or fresh foods should not be presented as preventing, treating or managing breed health conditions without veterinary diagnosis and supervision.
Majestik's Recommended Feeding Approach
Breed Diet Notes
A high-quality, balanced diet rich in lean proteins and omega fatty acids to support coat health and brain function; highly compatible with raw or fresh food diets.
Excellent protein sources available from Majestik include Kangaroo (lean and high in protein), Beef, and Lamb. Including oily fish like sardines provides the omega-3 fatty acids essential for maintaining the Rough Collie's iconic coat. Fresh vegetables like spinach or carrots can be added for fibre. Avoid high-purine organ meats in excess and monitor fat intake to prevent digestive upset.
These are general breed-level notes only. The appropriate food and serving amount depend on the individual dog's age, health, body condition, activity and tolerance.
Majestik Recommendation
Majestik BARF meals follow our practical 70/10/10/10 approach: approximately 70% quality meat and protein ingredients, 10% edible bone, 10% vegetables and 10% offal. This gives customers a convenient fresh-food option without needing to source and portion every ingredient themselves.
Our Beef, Lamb and Roo BARF meals provide convenient fresh-food options, with suitable proteins chosen or rotated according to the individual dog.
Suitable for different needs
- Healthy adult: Majestik adult Beef, Lamb or Roo BARF meal.
- Puppy: Majestik Premium Puppy.
- Senior: Majestik Senior Blend.
- Working or highly active dog: Suitable Majestik adult meal with quantity adjusted to workload and body condition.
- Protein trial: One Majestik protein at a time.
Recommended Majestik BARF Meals
This is a practical starting recommendation for healthy dogs. Individual needs vary with age, health, body condition and activity.
Collie Feeding Calculator
Personalised raw and cooked feeding recommendations based on your dog's profile
Ideal — Ribs palpable without excess fat. Visible waist. Abdominal tuck present.
Have a question about your Collie? Dog Health AI
Why Majestik?
Fresh, raw pet food made with integrity in South Australia
Australian Made
Made in Two Wells, South Australia
Freshly Prepared
Real meat, organs, bone & wholefood ingredients
No Fillers
No cheap fillers or artificial preservatives
Family Owned
Locally owned and operated
Local Delivery
Delivery across Adelaide & selected areas
Secure Checkout
Secure payment via Shopify checkout
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Breed Records & Facts
Average Litter Size
6-10 puppies
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References & Sources
Breed information verified against recognised breed authorities and veterinary evidence.