RHerding
Breed Guide

Herding

Rough Collie

“The Lassie legend. A loyal heart.”

The famous 'Lassie dog' — graceful, devoted, and unmistakably regal.

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Size

Large

Weight

60–75 lb

Lifespan

12–14 years

Energy

Moderate

Grooming

High

At a Glance

Quick Stats

Group

Herding

Size

Large

Height (M/F)

24–26 in / 22–24 in

Weight (M/F)

60–75 lb / 50–65 lb

Lifespan

12–14 years

Exercise Needs

Moderate

EnergyModerate
TrainabilityBeginner
GroomingHigh
SheddingHigh
ExperienceBeginner

The Breed

Overview

Made world-famous by Lassie, the Rough Collie is a graceful Scottish herding dog with a long, flowing coat and a devoted heart. Its elegance and gentle temperament define the breed.

Origin

Scotland / Northern England

Original Purpose

Herding sheep

Temperament

Gentle, devoted, intelligent, graceful

Best Known For

The famous 'Lassie dog' — graceful, devoted, and unmistakably regal.

Character

Temperament

Rough Collies are typically gentle, devoted, and intelligent. They bond closely with family and are famously good with children. They are sensitive, graceful, and eager to please.

Affection & Family

Typically excellent — devoted and gentle with the household.

Independence

Gentle, devoted, intelligent, graceful

Social Behavior

Generally good with other dogs.

Protective Instincts

Gentle, devoted, intelligent, graceful

With Children

Usually very good with children — the Lassie reputation is earned.

With Other Dogs

Generally good with other dogs.

Movement

Energy & Exercise

Needs daily exercise — walks and play. They are moderately active and adaptable.

Recommended Activities

ObedienceLong walksHikingAgilityHerdingTrail walksFetch

Partnership

Training

Highly trainable and willing; respond to gentle, consistent handling. They are sensitive.

Trainability

Beginner

Experience Level

Beginner

Coat Care

Grooming

A long, thick double coat that sheds heavily and needs frequent brushing — high maintenance.

Grooming Needs

High

Shedding

High

Wellness

Health

Watch for collie eye anomaly, the MDR1 gene (drug sensitivity), and hip dysplasia. This guide is for general educational purposes and is not a substitute for veterinary advice.

Every dog is an individual. This guide is general and educational — not a diagnosis or guarantee. Always consult a veterinarian for breed-specific or personal health concerns.

Heritage

History

Bred to herd sheep, the Rough Collie's intelligence and devotion still suit obedience, herding, and a graceful family life.

Origin

Scotland / Northern England

Original Purpose

Herding sheep

Lifestyle Fit

Best For

FAMILIES
FIRST-TIME OWNERS
ACTIVE OWNERS
HIKERS
HIGH GROOMING

Apartment Suitability

Reasonable with daily exercise.

Yard Requirements

A fenced yard is recommended.

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Discovery

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Breed Community

Rough Collie Community

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On WagLine

Popular Activities

Most popular with Rough Collies on WagLine.

01Obedience
02Long walks
03Hiking
04Agility
05Herding
06Trail walks
07Fetch

Based on structured breed recommendations for now — these will reflect real WagLine activity as the community grows.

More To Explore

Related Breeds

More breeds from the Herding group.

CHerding
Herding

Collie

Large

Energy: Moderate · 0 WagLine dogs

A graceful, devoted herder — the smooth-coated cousin of the famous Rough Collie.

View Breed Guide
SHerding
Herding

Shetland Sheepdog

Small

Energy: High · 0 WagLine dogs

A small, bright 'Sheltie' — a miniature collie with a big heart and sharp mind.

View Breed Guide
Border Collie
Herding

Border Collie

Medium

Energy: Very High · 1 WagLine dog

The world's smartest dog — a tireless, intensely focused herding genius.

View Breed Guide

The Directory

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