Herding · Rank #36 Most Popular Dog Breed
Collie

The Collie is a Scottish herding breed with origins in the Highland regions, developed over centuries to herd sheep in the challenging terrain of Scotland and northern England. The Rough Collie became internationally famous through the fictional character Lassie, which cemented the breed's reputation for loyalty, intelligence, and gentle temperament. Collies come in both Rough (long-coated) and Smooth (short-coated) varieties. They are highly trainable family dogs known for their sensitivity and devotion to children.
Ideal Weight
23-34 kg
Height
56-66 cm
Activity Level
Moderate (Daily Walks)
Life Expectancy
12-14 yrs
Feeding Guide
Collies are moderately active and should be fed a high-quality diet formulated for medium-to-large breeds in two measured daily meals. They are not typically prone to bloat but can become overweight if exercise is insufficient; monitor body condition regularly. Avoid excessive high-calorie treats, particularly for indoor or lower-activity dogs.
Water Needs
Collies have a thick double coat that can trap heat, making hydration especially important in warm weather; always provide fresh, cool water before and after activity.
Exercise Guide
Collies need around 60 minutes of daily exercise through walks, play, and light herding or agility activities. They enjoy interactive games that engage their herding instincts and are well-suited to dog sports. Adequate mental stimulation is important to prevent boredom in this intelligent breed.
Common Health Issues in Collies
- Collie Eye Anomaly
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy
- MDR1 Drug Sensitivity
- Hip Dysplasia
- Dermatomyositis
These are conditions commonly associated with the breed, not a diagnosis for your individual pet.
Collie Calorie Calculator
Estimated Daily Calories
1381 kcal
3.9
Cups / day
473
Grams / day
Based on a generic 350 kcal/cup food. Use the full Calorie Calculator to enter your food's exact calorie density.
Collie FAQs
How much should I feed a Collie?
Collies are moderately active and should be fed a high-quality diet formulated for medium-to-large breeds in two measured daily meals. They are not typically prone to bloat but can become overweight if exercise is insufficient; monitor body condition regularly. Avoid excessive high-calorie treats, particularly for indoor or lower-activity dogs. For a personalized daily calorie and portion estimate based on your Collie's exact weight, age, and activity level, use the calculator above or our full Calorie Calculator.
How much exercise does a Collie need?
Collies generally have moderate exercise needs. Collies need around 60 minutes of daily exercise through walks, play, and light herding or agility activities. They enjoy interactive games that engage their herding instincts and are well-suited to dog sports. Adequate mental stimulation is important to prevent boredom in this intelligent breed.
How much water does a Collie need?
Collies have a thick double coat that can trap heat, making hydration especially important in warm weather; always provide fresh, cool water before and after activity. As a general guideline, most dogs need roughly 50-60 ml of water per kg of body weight daily -- use our Water Intake Calculator for an estimate based on your pet's exact weight.
What health issues are common in Collies?
Collies are commonly associated with Collie Eye Anomaly, Progressive Retinal Atrophy, MDR1 Drug Sensitivity, Hip Dysplasia, and Dermatomyositis. This is general educational information, not a diagnosis -- regular veterinary checkups are the best way to catch and manage breed-related conditions early.
How big does a Collie get?
A fully grown Collie typically weighs 23.0-34.0 kg (51-75 lbs) and stands about 56-66 cm (22-26 in) tall at the shoulder, with a typical life expectancy of 12-14 years.
Medical Disclaimer
This tool provides general, educational estimates and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Breed-based estimates for the Collie are general guidance and vary by individual dog or cat. Always consult your veterinarian about your pet's specific health needs before making changes to their diet, water intake, or care routine.
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More Tools
Calorie Calculator
Full calorie calculator with custom food density.
Weight Checker
Check if your Collie is at a healthy weight.
Body Condition Score Calculator
Assess your Collie's body condition with a simple visual score.
Dog Age Calculator
Convert your Collie's age into human years.
Water Intake Calculator
Estimate how much water your Collie needs daily.
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