Collie (Smooth)
Male: 20.5-29.5 kg, Female: 18-25 kg
51-61 cm at the shoulder (Males: 56-61 cm, Females: 51-56 cm)
12-15 years
United Kingdom (Scotland)
About the Collie (Smooth)
The Smooth Collie is the athletic, streamlined counterpart to the more famous Rough Collie, sharing the same elegant, wedge-shaped head and intelligent expression but wearing a short, easy-care coat. Historically, while the Rough Collie worked the highlands, the Smooth was often preferred by drovers for moving livestock to market in more temperate climates. They are characterized by their remarkable agility and a 'perpetual motion' quality that reflects their working heritage. In a domestic setting, the Smooth Collie is a highly perceptive companion that forms a deep bond with its family. They are known for being exceptionally clean and 'dog-room-friendly,' lacking the heavy odour found in some other breeds. Their intelligence makes them highly trainable, though their sensitivity means they respond best to positive, reward-based methods. They are alert guardians who will bark to announce visitors but are generally welcoming once introduced.
Breed Standard
Key characteristics from the breed standard
In the show ring, the Smooth Collie is a portrait of balance and grace, defined by its smooth, clean-cut wedge-shaped head and a reach-and-drive movement that appears effortless and covering ground with minimal lift. The expression is a hallmark of the breed—perceptive, sweet, and full of 'Collie spirit'—enhanced by almond-shaped, obliquely set eyes. Their short, dense coat should feel harsh to the touch, perfectly outlining a muscular, lithe frame that radiates a quiet, watchful intelligence found in no other herding breed.
Bred For
Herding and droving livestock, particularly sheep and cattle
Temperament
Intelligent, alert, friendly, and active; sensitive and devoted to family without being nervous or aggressive.
Health Conditions Reported in the Breed
Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA), (), MDR1 Gene Mutation (drug sensitivity), , and ().
Grooming Needs
Moderate; despite the short coat, they have a dense undercoat that requires weekly brushing and more frequent attention during seasonal shedding periods.
Living Suitability
Not suited for small apartments unless very active; thrives in homes with a medium to large yard or acreage where they can run.
Good with Kids
Excellent with children of all ages; they are known for being gentle and protective, though they may occasionally try to 'herd' running toddlers.
Good with Other Pets
Generally excellent with other dogs and can live harmoniously with cats, especially if raised together from puppyhood.
Trainability
Very high; highly intelligent and eager to please, though they can be sensitive to harsh corrections and may display a streak of independence.
Coat & Colours
Short, flat, with a harsh-textured topcoat and a very dense undercoat.. Sable and white, Tricolour (black, tan, and white), and Blue merle.
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
Prospective owners should be aware that Smooth Collies are more likely to have a genetic sensitivity known as the MDR1 mutation. This doesn't mean every Collie is affected, but it is a common predisposition that makes them susceptible to severe adverse reactions to common veterinary drugs like ivermectin; testing is essential for safe medical care. They are a vocal breed that may bark at passing birds or squirrels—this can be managed with consistent training and by giving them a 'job' to do. While their coat is short, they are more likely to shed heavily during seasonal changes, requiring extra vacuuming and brushing to manage the 'snowfall' of undercoat. They are also predisposed to Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA), a hereditary condition affecting the retina; however, reputable breeders screen for this to ensure puppies are healthy. Finally, as a deep-chested breed, they can be susceptible to bloat (GDV)—feeding from floor level and avoiding post-meal sprints are simple ways to help manage this risk. Despite these quirks, their unwavering loyalty and sharp wit make them a joy for active households.
Feeding Guide for Your Collie (Smooth)
Healthy Weight
18-30 kg
Daily Feeding Amount (general starting estimate)
400-900 grams
For an adult Smooth Collie, a fresh or raw diet should be calculated at 2-3% of their ideal body weight daily. For a 25 kg dog, this equates to approximately 500-750 grams per day, split into two meals. Adjust portions based on individual metabolism and activity levels.
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-protein, nutrient-dense fresh or raw diet is ideal to support their high energy levels and maintain a healthy coat.
A balanced raw diet for a Smooth Collie should focus on lean, high-quality proteins available from Majestik Pet Food. Recommended proteins include Australian Beef, Lamb, and Kangaroo, which provide essential amino acids for muscle maintenance. Adding locally sourced seasonal vegetables like spinach or carrots provides necessary fibre. Some owners use smaller divided meals and avoid strenuous activity immediately around feeding. These steps cannot guarantee prevention of gastric dilatation-volvulus. Seek urgent veterinary care if bloat is suspected.
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 (Smooth) 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 (Smooth)? 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.