Collie

The Collie stands as one of the most beloved and recognisable dog breeds in the world, immortalised in popular culture through the legendary Lassie films and television series. But beyond their Hollywood fame, Collies are extraordinary dogs with a rich herding heritage stretching back centuries to the Scottish Highlands.

Originally developed to work the rugged terrain of Scotland and northern England, the Collie was bred for intelligence, loyalty, and an unwavering dedication to their human family. These qualities, combined with their striking beauty and gentle temperament, have made them cherished family companions across Australia for generations.

In Australia, Collies have found their place both as working dogs on rural properties and as devoted family pets in suburban homes. Their adaptable nature allows them to excel in various roles - from livestock guardians to therapy dogs, from show ring competitors to beloved children's companions.

If you're searching for Collie puppies for sale in Australia, it's important to understand that this breed comes in two distinct varieties - the Rough Collie (with the famous long, flowing coat) and the Smooth Collie (with a shorter, dense coat). Both varieties share the same wonderful temperament and characteristics, differing only in their grooming requirements.

When you're ready to welcome a Collie into your life, find verified Collie breeders on Doggo, where you can connect with registered Australian breeders committed to health, temperament, and responsible breeding practices.

The Collie temperament is perhaps best described as the perfect balance between intelligence and gentleness, making them exceptional family companions and working partners.

Core Personality Traits:

• Gentle and patient - Collies are renowned for their exceptional patience with children and their gentle approach to all interactions
• Highly intelligent - Ranked among the most intelligent dog breeds, Collies learn quickly and retain information well
• Loyal and devoted - They form deep bonds with their families and are naturally protective without being aggressive
• Sensitive and responsive - Collies are highly attuned to their owner's emotions and respond accordingly
• Alert and watchful - Their herding background makes them naturally observant and aware of their surroundings
• Calm and dignified - Unlike some herding breeds, Collies tend to have a more composed, measured approach to life

With Children and Families:

Collies are legendary for their relationship with children. They seem to instinctively understand that little ones require special care and protection. Their herding instincts may manifest as gentle nudging or positioning themselves between children and perceived dangers, but this is always done with care rather than force.

They're naturally inclined to be protective of their family without being territorial or aggressive towards strangers. A well-socialised Collie will greet visitors warmly while remaining watchful of their family's wellbeing.

Social Nature:

Collies generally get along well with other dogs and pets, especially when properly socialised from puppyhood. Their gentle nature and good manners make them welcome companions in multi-pet households. They're particularly good with smaller animals, as their herding instincts are more about gathering and protecting than chasing or hunting.

Work Ethic and Purpose:

While gentler than many working breeds, Collies still possess a strong work ethic. They thrive when given purpose and mental stimulation. This can be as simple as learning new tricks, participating in dog sports, or having regular training sessions. They're happiest when they feel useful and engaged with their family.

Potential Challenges:

• Sensitivity to harsh treatment - Collies respond best to positive training methods and can become anxious with harsh corrections
• Barking - They can be vocal, especially when alerting to strangers or unusual activities
• Herding behaviours - May attempt to herd children, other pets, or even adults by gently pushing or circling
• Separation anxiety - Their strong bonds can make them prone to anxiety when left alone for extended periods

The Collie is a medium to large breed with an elegant, athletic build that reflects both beauty and functionality.

Size Specifications:

• Height: Dogs 56-61 cm; Bitches 51-56 cm
• Weight: Dogs 20-29 kg; Bitches 18-25 kg
• Build: Well-balanced, athletic, and graceful with a slightly longer body than height

Coat Varieties:

Collies come in two distinct coat types:

Rough Collie:

• Long, dense double coat with a soft undercoat
• Abundant feathering on legs, chest, and tail
• Distinctive mane around the neck and shoulders
• Weather-resistant outer coat
• Requires regular grooming to maintain condition

Smooth Collie:

• Short, dense, flat-lying coat
• Double-coated but much easier to maintain
• Same body structure and temperament as Rough Collie
• Less common in Australia but equally lovely

Colour Variations:

Collies are recognised in several beautiful colour combinations:

• Sable and white - ranging from light gold to deep mahogany with white markings
• Tricolour - black body with tan and white markings
• Blue merle - blue-grey base with black marbling and white/tan markings
• White - predominantly white with coloured markings (less common)

Physical Characteristics:

• Head: Elegant wedge shape with a refined, intelligent expression
• Eyes: Almond-shaped, dark brown (except blue merles may have blue eyes)
• Ears: Small, semi-erect with tips folding forward
• Tail: Long and carried low with an upward swirl at the tip
• Movement: Smooth, effortless gait showing both grace and drive

The overall impression should be one of dignity, elegance, and intelligence - a dog that is both beautiful to look at and built for purpose.

Collies are generally healthy dogs with good longevity, though like all purebreds, they can be prone to certain genetic conditions.

Average lifespan: 12-16 years, with many Collies living well into their teens when properly cared for.

Common Health Conditions:

• Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA) - A congenital eye condition that can range from mild to severe. Fortunately, DNA testing is available, and responsible breeders test their breeding stock.
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) - Can lead to blindness; DNA testable.
• Hip Dysplasia - Joint malformation that can cause arthritis; breeders should hip score their dogs.
• Elbow Dysplasia - Another joint condition; elbow scoring is recommended for breeding dogs.
• Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) - A progressive spinal cord disease; DNA testable.
• Multi-Drug Resistance 1 (MDR1) - A genetic mutation affecting drug metabolism; extremely important for medication safety.
• Epilepsy - Can occur in the breed; while not DNA testable, breeding history is important.
• Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus) - A life-threatening condition; more common in deep-chested breeds.

Essential Health Testing:

Responsible Collie breeders in Australia should provide evidence of:

• Hip scoring through the ANKC/AVA scheme
• Elbow scoring (recommended)
• DNA testing for CEA, PRA, DM, and MDR1
• Current eye clearances through the Australian Canine Eye Scheme
• Clear breeding history regarding epilepsy

The MDR1 Mutation:

This deserves special mention as it's crucial for Collie owners to understand. Dogs with the MDR1 mutation can have severe, potentially fatal reactions to common medications including:

• Ivermectin (heartworm preventatives)
• Certain anaesthetics
• Some anti-diarrhoeal medications
• Various other drugs

Always inform your veterinarian that your Collie may carry the MDR1 mutation, and request appropriate drug alternatives when necessary.

Promoting Long-term Health:

• Maintain appropriate weight to reduce joint stress
• Provide regular, moderate exercise
• Feed high-quality nutrition appropriate for life stage
• Regular veterinary check-ups and preventative care
• Dental care to prevent periodontal disease
• Monitor for signs of bloat and seek immediate veterinary care if suspected

Grooming requirements vary significantly between the two Collie varieties, though both are manageable with regular attention.

Rough Collie Grooming:

The Rough Collie's beautiful coat is their crowning glory, but it does require commitment:

• Daily brushing during shedding seasons (spring and autumn)
• 3-4 times weekly brushing during non-shedding periods
• Weekly thorough grooming sessions to work through the entire coat
• Pay special attention to areas prone to matting: behind ears, under legs, rear end, and chest
• Use appropriate tools: slicker brush, undercoat rake, and metal comb

Smooth Collie Grooming:

Much simpler but still important:

• Weekly brushing with a firm bristle brush
• Daily brushing during shedding seasons
• Regular checking for any skin issues or parasites

General Grooming Needs:

• Bathing: Every 6-8 weeks or as needed; over-bathing can strip natural oils
• Nail trimming: Every 2-3 weeks, or as needed
• Ear cleaning: Weekly checks and cleaning as needed
• Dental care: Regular brushing and dental chews to maintain oral health
• Eye care: Gentle cleaning around eyes to prevent tear staining

Shedding Reality:

Let's be honest - Collies shed. A lot. Especially the Rough variety. They blow their coat twice a year (spring and autumn) in spectacular fashion. During these periods, you'll find fur everywhere despite your best grooming efforts. Regular brushing is your best defence, and a good vacuum cleaner is essential!

Professional Grooming:

While not essential, many Collie owners find professional grooming helpful, especially during heavy shedding periods. A professional groomer can:

• Provide a thorough undercoat removal
• Trim sanitary areas
• Neaten feet and leg furnishings
• Give a professional bath and blow-dry

Budget $60-$100 per session for professional grooming services.

Grooming as Bonding:

Many Collie owners discover that regular grooming becomes a cherished bonding time. Collies generally enjoy the attention and physical contact, making grooming sessions pleasant for both dog and owner when introduced properly from puppyhood.

Collies have moderate to high exercise needs that reflect their working heritage, though they're generally less demanding than some other herding breeds.

Daily Exercise Requirements:

• 60-90 minutes of combined physical and mental exercise daily
• Two walks per day of 20-30 minutes each, plus additional playtime
• Off-leash running in secure areas several times per week
• Mental stimulation through training, puzzle toys, or interactive games

Types of Exercise Collies Enjoy:

• Long walks - they're excellent walking companions with good endurance
• Hiking - their athletic build makes them great trail companions
• Swimming - many Collies enjoy water and swimming is excellent low-impact exercise
• Fetch games - satisfies their retrieving instincts
• Agility training - excellent mental and physical workout
• Herding activities - if available, this taps into their natural instincts
• Jogging - adult Collies can make good jogging partners for moderate distances

Mental Exercise is Crucial:

Collies are intelligent dogs that need mental stimulation as much as physical exercise:

• Training sessions - they love learning new commands and tricks
• Puzzle toys and interactive feeders
• Hide and seek games with family members or toys
• Obedience work - they excel at and enjoy formal training
• New experiences - different walking routes, new environments
• Social activities - meeting new people and dogs (when properly socialised)

Age Considerations:

Puppy Exercise (under 12 months):

• Short, frequent play sessions rather than forced exercise
• Avoid repetitive, high-impact activities that could damage developing joints
• Focus on socialisation and basic training
• Allow puppy to set the pace and rest when tired

Adult Collie Exercise:

• Can handle longer hikes and more intense activities
• Excellent age for dog sports and activities
• Peak fitness and endurance
• Enjoy regular routines and predictable exercise schedules

Senior Collie Exercise (8+ years):

• Maintain regular, moderate exercise to preserve muscle tone and joint health
• Shorter but more frequent walks
• Swimming is excellent for arthritic joints
• Continue mental stimulation to keep mind sharp

Exercise Personality:

Unlike some high-drive working breeds, Collies are generally content with moderate, consistent exercise. They're not typically obsessive about activities, but they do need enough stimulation to prevent boredom and maintain good physical and mental health.

A tired Collie is a well-behaved Collie, but they're also happy to settle quietly at home when their needs have been met.

The cost of owning a Collie in Australia varies depending on several factors, from the initial purchase price to ongoing care expenses.

Purchase Price:

• Pet-quality Collie puppies: $1,800 - $3,500
• Show-quality puppies: $3,000 - $5,000+
• Champion bloodlines: $4,000 - $6,000+
• Rescue/rehomed adult Collies: $300 - $800

Factors Affecting Purchase Price:

• Breeder reputation and achievements
• Health testing completeness (CEA, PRA, hip scores, etc.)
• Coat variety (Rough Collies often cost slightly more due to popularity)
• Colour (blue merles and tricolours may command higher prices)
• Registration papers and breeding rights
• Location - prices can vary between states

Setup Costs (First Year):

• Food and water bowls: $30 - $80
• Quality dog bed: $80 - $200
• Collar, leash, and ID tags: $50 - $100
• Crate (if used): $150 - $300
• Grooming supplies: $100 - $200 (especially important for Rough Collies)
• Toys and enrichment: $80 - $150
• Initial veterinary care: $400 - $600 (vaccinations, microchip, health check)

Ongoing Annual Costs:

• Premium dog food: $800 - $1,200 (adult Collie, high-quality diet)
• Routine veterinary care: $400 - $600 (annual check-ups, vaccinations, parasite prevention)
• Pet insurance: $400 - $800 (comprehensive coverage)
• Professional grooming: $300 - $600 (for Rough Collies, 4-6 sessions per year)
• Replacement toys and accessories: $100 - $200
• Training classes or activities: $200 - $500

Potential Additional Costs:

• Emergency veterinary care: $500 - $5,000+ (depending on the issue)
• Dental cleaning: $800 - $1,500 (under anaesthetic)
• Specialist treatments: Variable (for conditions like hip dysplasia or eye problems)
• Pet boarding/sitting: $40 - $80 per day when travelling
• Replacement of damaged items: $100 - $500+ (furniture, gardens, etc.)

Cost-Saving Tips:

• Learn to groom your Collie yourself (especially between professional sessions)
• Invest in quality food to promote long-term health
• Maintain regular preventative veterinary care to avoid emergency costs
• Consider pet insurance, particularly in the first few years
• Join local dog clubs for affordable training and socialisation opportunities
• Buy quality items once rather than replacing cheap options repeatedly

Lifetime Cost Estimate:

Over a 12-16 year lifespan, expect to invest $20,000 - $35,000 in your Collie's care, including initial purchase. This makes them a moderate to high-cost breed to own, particularly due to their grooming needs and potential health issues.

Finding a responsible Collie breeder in Australia is crucial for ensuring you get a healthy, well-tempered puppy from health-tested parents.

Essential Breeder Qualifications:

• ANKC Registration: Registered with their state canine control body
• Health Testing: Complete testing including CEA, PRA, hip/elbow scoring, MDR1, and current eye clearances
• Breeding Ethics: Follows ethical breeding practices with appropriate intervals between litters
• Knowledge: Demonstrates deep understanding of the breed, its characteristics, and needs
• Socialisation Focus: Ensures early socialisation and proper puppy development
• Lifetime Support: Offers ongoing support and advice throughout your dog's life

Questions to Ask Breeders:

• Health Testing: "Can you provide copies of all health test results for both parents?"
• Breeding Purpose: "What were your goals in this particular breeding?"
• Temperament: "How do you assess puppy temperaments and match them to families?"
• Socialisation: "What socialisation experiences have the puppies had?"
• Support: "What ongoing support do you provide to puppy buyers?"
• Return Policy: "What happens if I can no longer keep the dog?"
• References: "Can you provide references from previous puppy buyers?"

Red Flags to Avoid:

• Multiple breeds or constant availability of puppies
• No health testing or reluctance to provide documentation
• Won't let you meet the mother or see where puppies are raised
• Pressure to buy immediately or ship puppies sight unseen
• No questions about your lifestyle or suitability for the breed
• Puppies always available without a waiting list
• Prices significantly below or above market rates without explanation
• Poor living conditions or obviously stressed dogs

What Good Breeders Will Ask You:

Responsible breeders will thoroughly vet potential families:

• Your experience with dogs, particularly Collies or similar breeds
• Your living situation and family composition
• Your plans for exercise, training, and grooming
• Your understanding of the breed's needs and characteristics
• Your availability to care for a puppy and adult dog
• Your budget for ongoing care and potential health issues

Where to Find Reputable Breeders:

• ANKC breed club websites - start with the Collie Club in your state
• Dog shows and events - meet breeders and see their dogs
• Referrals from veterinarians who specialise in or have experience with Collies
• Collie rescue organisations often know reputable breeders
• Online breed communities and forums with established members

Visit and Evaluation:

When you visit a potential breeder:

• Observe the environment - should be clean, safe, and stimulating
• Meet the mother and ideally other adult dogs on the property
• Interact with puppies - they should be confident, curious, and well-socialised
• Ask to see health certificates and registration papers
• Discuss the breeder's goals and philosophy
• Evaluate the breeder's knowledge and passion for the breed

Remember, good breeders often have waiting lists. If you find an excellent breeder, it's worth waiting for their next litter rather than settling for a less suitable option.

Find verified Collie breeders on Doggo - where breeders are screened for registration and ethical practices.

Collies are adaptable dogs that can thrive in various living situations, though some arrangements suit them better than others.

Suitable Living Environments:

Houses with Yards:

The ideal setup for most Collies. They appreciate having:

• Secure fencing (minimum 1.5m high) - Collies can jump and may roam if not contained
• Space to patrol and explore - satisfies their natural watchfulness
• Shelter from weather - somewhere comfortable to rest outdoors
• Multiple access points to the house - they prefer being close to family

Apartments and Units:

Possible but requires significant commitment:

• Daily exercise becomes even more critical without a yard
• Multiple walks and outdoor experiences needed
• Mental stimulation essential to prevent boredom
• Consideration for neighbours regarding barking
• Access to dog parks or off-leash areas highly beneficial

Rural Properties:

Collies often thrive in rural settings where they can:

• Express their herding instincts naturally
• Have varied, interesting environments to explore
• Exercise freely in larger spaces
• Take on meaningful roles like livestock protection

Climate Considerations:

Australian Weather Adaptations:

• Hot weather: Rough Collies can struggle in extreme heat - provide shade, water, and limit exercise during hot periods
• Cold weather: Generally well-adapted, especially Rough Collies with their thick coats
• Humidity: Can affect Rough Collies more than Smooth Collies
• Seasonal adjustments: May need grooming modifications in different seasons

Family Composition:

With Children:

• Excellent with kids of all ages when properly socialised
• Natural protective instincts make them wonderful guardians
• Gentle play style suits families with young children
• Teaching children proper interaction is important

With Other Pets:

• Generally good with other dogs, especially when raised together
• Can coexist peacefully with cats, particularly if introduced young
• Natural herding instincts may require management around smaller pets
• Supervision recommended during initial introductions

With Seniors:

• Excellent companions for active retirees
• Loyal and devoted to their primary caregiver
• Moderate exercise needs suitable for daily walking routines
• Intelligent and responsive to training and routine

Lifestyle Requirements:

• Daily commitment to exercise and mental stimulation
• Regular grooming schedule (especially for Rough Collies)
• Social interaction - they don't do well isolated from family
• Consistent routine - Collies thrive on predictability
• Training and mental challenges - they need purposeful activities

Not Suitable For:

• People working extremely long hours with no other stimulation
• Households wanting a completely low-maintenance pet
• Those unable to provide regular grooming (for Rough Collies)
• Environments with no space for moderate exercise
• Families unwilling to include the dog in daily activities

Making It Work:

Collies are remarkably adaptable when their basic needs are met. The key is honest assessment of your ability to provide:

• Adequate daily exercise and mental stimulation
• Regular grooming and health care
• Consistent training and socialisation
• A place in the family dynamic

When these needs are met, Collies reward their families with unwavering loyalty, gentle companionship, and years of wonderful memories.

Ready to welcome a Collie into your home? Browse Collie puppies for sale on Doggo — Australia's trusted breeder marketplace.

How much does a Collie cost in Australia?

Collie puppies from registered breeders in Australia typically cost between $1,800 and $3,500 for pet quality, with show-quality dogs ranging from $3,000 to $5,000+. Prices vary based on breeder reputation, health testing, bloodlines, and coat variety.

Do Collies shed a lot?

Yes, particularly Rough Collies, which are heavy shedders year-round and blow their coat twice annually. Smooth Collies shed moderately. Regular brushing (3-4 times weekly for Rough Collies) helps manage loose hair, but expect to find fur throughout your home.

Are Collies good with children?

Collies are exceptional with children and are considered one of the best family breeds. They're naturally gentle, patient, and protective. Their herding instincts may lead to gentle nudging or positioning around children, which is normal behaviour.

How much exercise does a Collie need?

Collies need 60-90 minutes of combined physical and mental exercise daily. This includes two walks plus playtime and mental stimulation. They're less demanding than some working breeds but still require consistent, moderate exercise to stay happy and healthy.

What's the difference between Rough and Smooth Collies?

The main difference is coat length: Rough Collies have long, flowing coats requiring extensive grooming, while Smooth Collies have short, dense coats with minimal grooming needs. Both varieties share the same wonderful temperament and characteristics.

Are Collies easy to train?

Yes, Collies are highly intelligent and eager to please, making them very trainable. They respond best to positive reinforcement methods and can be sensitive to harsh training. Their intelligence means they learn quickly but also pick up bad habits if not properly guided.

Do Collies bark a lot?

Collies can be moderately vocal, particularly when alerting to strangers or unusual activities. They're naturally watchful and will bark to announce visitors. With proper training, excessive barking can usually be managed effectively.

What health problems do Collies have?

Common health concerns include Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA), Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), hip dysplasia, and MDR1 mutation. Responsible breeders test for these conditions. The MDR1 mutation is particularly important as it affects how Collies process certain medications.

How long do Collies live?

Collies typically live 12-16 years, which is good longevity for a medium to large breed. With proper care, nutrition, and regular veterinary attention, many Collies live well into their teens.

Can Collies live in apartments?

While possible, apartments aren't ideal for Collies. They're better suited to houses with yards where they can patrol and exercise freely. If keeping a Collie in an apartment, you must commit to extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation.

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Ready for a loyal, intelligent companion? Browse Collie puppies for sale on Doggo — Australia's trusted breeder-only marketplace.