The Scotch Collies or Old Time Scotch Collies are landrace dogs, consistent enough to be recognized as a breed, though their appearance is somewhat variable as compared to standardized breeds. Before becoming popular as a pet, these Collies, and their ancestors were considered working-type dogs used for herding livestock for centuries. They have a muscular body with a wedge-shaped head, long, upright neck, well-sloped shoulder, deep chest, powerful hips, and sloped croup.
Alternative names | Old Farm Collie, Farm Collie, Scottish Collie |
Coat | Short (smooth) or long (rough), flat, dense |
Color | Sable, tricolor, black and white, blue merle, white; some may have tan markings |
Breed Type | Dog Landrace |
Group of Breed | Herding |
Lifespan | 12-14 years |
Weight | Female: 40-60 lb Male: 45-70 lb |
Size/Height | Medium; female: 19-22 in male: 21-24 in |
Shedding | Moderate to heavy |
Size of Litter | 8-12 puppies |
Temperament | Devoted, proud, graceful, affectionate |
Hypoallergenic | No |
Good with Children | Yes |
Barking | Occasional |
Country Originated in | Scotland, England, Wales |
Competitive Registration/Qualification Information | DRA |
Believed to have evolved from Native Celtic Dogs, Roman Cattle Dogs, and the Viking Herding Spitz, the Scotch Collie as recorded in historical accounts, existed in Britain by the late 18th century. With their increasing popularity in the 19th century, the Scotch Collies were exported to America to help in herding and farming works. With the advent of the 20th century, this breed became a rage as the pet owners, farmers, ranchers, and even the Queen all owned Scotch Collies.
As time went by, these dogs were selectively bred and crossed with other breeds to improve their physical characteristics. In the late 19th century, the breeders standardized the breed, keeping written records of its pedigree. Many of the modern dog breeds including Rough Collie, Smooth Collie, Shetland Sheepdog (Miniature Collie), Border Collie, English Shepherd, Gordon Setter, Australian Shepherd, and Australian Cattle Dog have been derived from Scotch Collies.
The sweet, loyal, and friendly Scotch Collie makes a good family companion that wants to be a part of every household activity. It can at times become a bit clingy because of its extreme sense of family loyalty. It loves playing with children and protectively watches over them.
Not known to be aggressive towards other dogs, the Scotch Collie can also coexist with non-canine pets. Since its herding instincts are strong, it is quite usual for your pet dog to gather pets and children, and act as their tender guardian.
Since these dogs are smart and responsive, training the Scotch Collies is fun and easy.
Two to three cups of quality dry food are recommended per day and make sure that your dog’s food is split into two meals.