Types of Collies That Shine with Elegance and Loyalty – Few breeds capture the heart quite like the Collie. With their striking beauty, keen intelligence, and unwavering devotion, these dogs have long been celebrated as both noble companions and capable working dogs.
Thanks to their iconic status—bolstered by legends like Lassie—Collies remain a symbol of grace, loyalty, and gentle strength.
But did you know there’s more than one type of Collie? Each variety brings its own unique charm, from flowing coats to distinct personalities shaped by their history.
Whether you’re a longtime Collie enthusiast or considering bringing one into your home, let’s explore five magnificent types of Collies that embody elegance and devotion.
Table of Contents
5 Types of Collies
1. Rough Collie
Origin: Scotland
Appearance: The Rough Collie is the quintessential image of the breed—majestic, with a luxuriously long double coat, a refined wedge-shaped head, and expressive almond-shaped eyes. They come in classic sable and white, tri-color (black, white, and tan), or blue merle.
Temperament: Gentle, intelligent, and highly trainable, Rough Collies are natural protectors with a strong herding instinct. They’re affectionate with families, excellent with children, and often reserved (but polite) around strangers.
Also Read: 7 Dog Breeds That Are Tough to Train but Worth the Effort
Ideal Home: They thrive in homes with space to roam but adapt well to suburban life as long as they get daily exercise and mental stimulation.
Care Needs: Their lush coat requires regular brushing (2-3 times a week) to prevent mats, with heavier shedding during seasonal changes.
2. Smooth Collie
Origin: Scotland
Appearance: The Smooth Collie shares the same elegant build as the Rough but with a short, dense coat that lies close to the body. They come in the same color variations—sable, tri-color, and blue merle—but with less grooming hassle.
Temperament: Just as intelligent and loyal as their long-coated cousins, Smooth Collies are energetic, alert, and deeply bonded to their families. They tend to be slightly more active and may have a stronger herding drive.
Ideal Home: Perfect for active individuals or families who want a Collie’s brilliance without extensive grooming. They do best with a yard but can adapt to apartment living if exercised well.
Care Needs: Weekly brushing suffices, making them a lower-maintenance alternative to Rough Collies.
3. Border Collie
Origin: England/Scotland border
Appearance: Lean and athletic, Border Collies are medium-sized with a keen, intense gaze. They often have a medium-length double coat, commonly black and white, though red, blue merle, and other colors exist.
Temperament: Renowned as the most intelligent dog breed, Border Collies are workaholics—driven, agile, and endlessly energetic. They excel in obedience, agility, and herding but need constant mental challenges to stay happy.
Ideal Home: Best suited for highly active owners who can provide rigorous exercise, training, and a job to do (even if it’s advanced trick training). Not ideal for sedentary households.
Care Needs: Moderate grooming (weekly brushing), with extra attention during shedding seasons.
4. Bearded Collie
Origin: Scotland
Appearance: Known as the “Beardie,” this Collie sports a shaggy, tousled coat that gives them a charming, carefree look. Their fur covers their eyes and forms a distinctive beard, hence the name.
Temperament: Playful, outgoing, and full of personality, Bearded Collies are social butterflies who love people and other pets. They’re intelligent but sometimes mischievous, with a joyful, bouncy nature.
Also Read: 7 Instinctive Hunting Dogs Perfect for Outdoor Adventures
Ideal Home: Great for families with kids or active singles who enjoy a dog with a sense of humor. They need space to run and play.
Care Needs: Their long coat requires frequent brushing (every other day) to prevent tangles and mats.
5. Shetland Sheepdog
Origin: Shetland Islands, Scotland
Appearance: A miniature version of the Rough Collie, Shelties have a lush double coat, a sweet fox-like face, and come in sable, black, or blue merle.
Temperament: Though small, they’re mighty in intelligence and loyalty. Shelties are sensitive, eager to please, and excellent watchdogs. They bond deeply with their families but can be shy with strangers.
Ideal Home: Perfect for families, seniors, or first-time dog owners who want a trainable, affectionate companion. They do well in smaller homes if exercised properly.
Care Needs: Regular brushing (2-3 times a week) is essential to manage their thick coat.
Finding Your Perfect Collie Companion
Whether you’re drawn to the regal Rough Collie, the energetic Border Collie, or the playful Bearded Collie, each type offers a unique blend of beauty, brains, and devotion. These dogs don’t just share your home—they enrich your life with their unwavering loyalty and timeless elegance.
If a Collie has stolen your heart, consider which variety best matches your lifestyle. Whether as a working partner, a family guardian, or a loving companion, one thing is certain: a Collie’s love is a gift that lasts a lifetime.
Do you have a favorite Collie type? Share your stories in the comments—we’d love to hear about your elegant, loyal friend!
