Page 56 - (DK) The Dog Encyclopedia

CATALOG OF BREEDS | WORKING DOGS

Smooth Collie

HEIGHT WEIGHT LIFE SPAN Sable and white
20–24in 40–66lb Over 10 years Black, tan, and white
(51–61cm) (18–30kg)

This increasingly rare collie is calm and friendly, making
A HELPING HAND
it ideal for the elderly or families with young children
Dogs have been used for many years to assist
blind, deaf, and disabled people, but there is Recognized as a breed in its own Vulnerable Native Breed, signifying a breed
now a new way to help those suffering right, the Smooth Collie shares many that registers fewer than 300 new animals
with Alzheimer’s Disease. Choosing Smooth
physical features with the Collie (see p.52). per year; in 2010 just 54 new dogs were
Collies to do this work has proved enormously
successful. The dogs are trained to guide their Both breeds are descended from Scottish registered. The breed is even less familiar
owner home or remain with them until help farm and herding dogs. Early Collies were in other countries.
arrives (below)—they carry a GPS on their smaller than today’s dogs, with shorter The Smooth Collie is sometimes used
harness to locate them. Loyal and devoted,
muzzles, but during the 19th century as a sheepdog or watchdog but is also a
these trained dogs are unusual because they breeders created a taller, more elegant good house dog that enjoys being with
often work without any commands from their
animal for the show ring. As with the people. Mild-mannered and friendly, it
owner and are also able to cope with the mood
swings associated with the condition. Collie, the breed was promoted by Queen needs plenty of company, exercise, and
Victoria who kept both Collies and Smooth mental stimulation. The breed, like the
Collies in her kennels. Collie, does well in agility and obedience
Today the Smooth Collie is less well- competitions. The short-haired coat is
known than its rough-haired counterpart. easy to maintain, needing little more
In the UK the Kennel Club has listed it as a than regular brushing.

One or both eyes
may be blue
in blue merles
Ears semierect
when alert

Muzzle
Long tail
reaches rounded
hock joint at end

Short, dense,
coarse coat
Characteristic
white collar
and chest

Blue merle

Oval feet with
arched toes

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