Collie (Rough)
KAH-lee
Devoted, Graceful, Proud, Sensitive. Originally bred for herding sheep.
An adult Collie (Rough) weighs 60-75 lbs (male) or 50-65 lbs (female), needs 870-1,580 calories daily, and lives 12-14 yrs. Large breeds need portion control and joint-conscious exercise, especially during growth. The breed's primary health watch is collie eye anomaly. All numbers below come from AKC breed standards and NRC 2006 veterinary nutrition formulas.
Nutrition and feeding
A typical adult Collie (Rough) needs 870 to 1,580 calories per day. An average male (68 lbs / 30.6 kg) needs around 1,280 kcal; a female (58 lbs / 26.1 kg) roughly 1,130 kcal. These estimates use the vet-standard RER/MER formula.
Estimate for a typical adult Collie (Rough). For puppies, seniors, or specific activity levels, use the full calorie calculator.
Health profile
Large breeds face a particular set of health challenges related to their size and growth rate. The Collie (Rough) typically lives 12-14 yrs. The breed's primary health concerns are collie eye anomaly and mdr1 gene mutation, which responsible breeders screen for before breeding.
Exercise and activity
Moderate; 45-60 minutes daily. Less demanding than Border Collies. Enjoys walks, play, and moderate herding activity. Herding instincts run deep in the Collie (Rough). Without a job to do, they may try to herd children, other pets, or even passing cars. Channel that drive into structured activities: agility, flyball, advanced obedience, or herding trials if available in your area.
Care and traits
Collie (Rough)s have a long, abundant double coat coat. Origin: Scotland.
Lassie made this breed famous worldwide. Their long coat requires regular brushing (2-3 times weekly) but is surprisingly manageable. The MDR1 mutation means common drugs like ivermectin can be dangerous; always tell your vet you have a Collie.
Grooming is a significant time commitment with this breed. Plan for daily brushing sessions and professional grooming every 4-6 weeks. Skipping grooming leads to mats, skin irritation, and potential infection underneath tangled coat.
Heavy shedding is a reality with this breed. Expect dog hair on furniture, clothing, and in every corner of your home. A good vacuum, lint rollers, and acceptance are your best tools. Shedding typically increases during seasonal coat changes in spring and fall.
Tools for Collie (Rough) owners
Frequently asked questions
Daily calorie needs for a Collie (Rough) range from 870 to 1580 kcal. A 68-pound individual falls near the middle of that range. Growth-phase nutrition matters enormously for large breeds. Puppies need controlled growth to protect developing joints. Working or competition dogs may need 20-30% more than resting estimates. Use our calorie calculator with your dog's actual weight for a personalized number.
Males typically weigh 60-75 lbs (27.2–34.0 kg). Females run lighter at 50-65 lbs (22.7–29.5 kg). Large breeds carry weight in the midsection and over the ribs. A visible waist from above and a tuck behind the ribs when viewed from the side indicate healthy condition. The best home assessment is the rib test: place your thumbs on the spine and spread your fingers across the ribs. You should feel each rib individually. If you have to press to find them, the dog is carrying extra weight.
The top health priority for Collie (Rough) owners is awareness of collie eye anomaly. Talk to your vet about screening options and early detection strategies for collie eye anomaly. Other conditions seen in the breed include mdr1 gene mutation, bloat, progressive retinal atrophy. Awareness of these breed tendencies allows for early intervention, which often improves outcomes significantly.
About 45 to 60 minutes of daily activity keeps a Collie (Rough) in good shape. Good activities for this breed include agility, herding trials, frisbee. Mental stimulation through training and puzzle toys is as important as physical exercise for this breed. While not as demanding as high-energy breeds, a Collie (Rough) that gets no exercise will gain weight and may develop behavioral issues.
Disclaimer: General breed information based on AKC standards and veterinary sources. Individual dogs vary. Calorie estimates use the RER/MER formula (NRC 2006). Consult your veterinarian for advice specific to your dog. See our sources.
Last reviewed: April 1, 2026