Page 50 - The Complete Dog Breed Book Choose the Perfect Dog for You, New Edition (DK)

50 GUIDE T O BREED S

Long, lean, Dark eyes with
tapering head intelligent, inquisitive
expression Semierect
Smooth-haired ears
face
Long, very dense,
harsh-textured, sable
Profuse and white coat Abundant,
feathering on white mane
hindquarters

Smooth hair
below hock

Well-feathered tail
COLLIE

THIS PROUD AND BEAUTIFUL, SWEET-TEMPERED DOG MAKES A LOVELY FAMILY COMPANION AKC
Height range This rich-coated breed, a descendant of The herding instinct has not been
20–24 in (51–61 cm) the rather less-refined Scottish working entirely bred out of Collies; their sharp
Weight range shepherd dogs, is greatly admired today awareness of movement may trigger
51–75 lb (23–34 kg)
as a pet and in the show ring. The Collie’s an impulse to “round up” friends and
Life span 12–14 years history may go back as far as Roman Britain, family. Early socializing can prevent
Origin UK but dogs recognizably of this type did not this trait from becoming a nuisance.
attract wide attention until the 19th century. Like all breeds originally intended
Queen Victoria is credited with popularizing as working dogs, the Collie becomes
the breed both in Europe and the United restless when underexercised or left
Other colors States. Later, “Lassie,” the highly intelligent alone for long periods and may start
star of film and television, confirmed the to bark excessively. However, given an
Collie’s status as one of the best-loved energetic daily run, it can be kept
Blue merle Black, tan, dogs of all time. in a modestly sized house or
and white This breed is mild-tempered and tolerant large apartment.
of other dogs and pets. It is highly responsive This dog’s long, thick coat needs
to training and makes an affectionate and regular grooming to prevent tangles
protective companion. However, the people- and matting. More frequent grooming
loving Collie readily accepts visitors to the sessions may be needed when the
home and therefore does not make a good dense undercoat is being shed,
guard dog. An athletic breed, it is eager for which occurs twice a year.
fun and will take part with gusto in canine
sports such as agility trials.

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