Collies 101
Herding groupEveryone knows a Collie when they see one – or do they? There's a lot more to Collies than most people know, starting with coat type (Rough and Smooth) and color combinations (many more than the classic "Lassie" look). This handsome breed with a smiling face may not get help if you fall in a well but don't count them out on that score, either. They love their families, are eager to please and are a lot noisier than most realize.
What we love about Collies
Easy-going breed that never goes unnoticed
- Energy level
- Moderate (50%)
- Bark level
- Very vocal
- Height
- 22 to 26 inches
- Lifespan
- 12 to 14 years
- Weight
- 50 to 75 lbs
The Collie stands 22 to 26 inches tall and weighs 50 to 75 lbs. Collies have a lifespan of 12 to 14 years. They are known for a moderate (50%) energy level and a very vocal bark.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How big do Collies get?
- Collies stand 22 to 26 inches tall and typically weigh between 50 and 75 pounds.
- How long do Collies live?
- The average lifespan of a Collie is 12 to 14 years.
- Are Collies good for first-time dog owners?
- Collies have moderate energy levels and can be suitable for first-time owners who are committed to regular exercise and training.
- Do Collies bark a lot?
- Collies are very vocal — they bark frequently and use their voice to communicate.
My pet’s health plannerSM
This Collie health planner outlines the most common medical conditions at each life stage — from puppy through senior — along with their relative risk levels. Understanding these risks can help owners plan preventive care and choose the right pet insurance coverage.

Nationwide can help you save on your Collie's health care no matter what lifestage they’re in.
- Puppy (0 to 9 months)
- Conjunctivitis: Very High Risk, Gastroenteritis: Very High Risk, Urinary tract infection: Moderate Risk
- Young Adult (10 months to 5 years)
- Inflammatory bowel disease: Moderate Risk, Seizures: Above Average Risk, Conjunctivitis: Above Average Risk
- Mature Adult (6 years to 9 years)
- Inflammatory bowel disease: Moderate Risk, Arthritis: Moderate Risk, Dental disease: Above Average Risk
- Senior (10+ years)
- Arthritis: Very High Risk, Liver disease: High Risk, Intervertebral disc disease: Very High Risk

More than a century ago, the author Albert Payson Terhune's best-selling books about his Sunnybank collies made the breed popular. In his memory, Collie lovers gather annually near the old site of Sunnybank in Northern New Jersey to celebrate all things Collie. In 1982, when TV's "Lassie" was a hit show, the show's canine star became the first dog to have pet health insurance in the United States (from Nationwide, of course!).
Collie coat care and colors
Collies come in two varieties: the familiar long-haired version and a less common shorter-haired "smooth" type. Both types are double-coated, and both shed a decent amount. Both varieties “blow” coats in spring and fall, dropping their undercoats. Regular brushing and combing down to the skin will reduce shedding to a decent degree. Acclimating puppies to having their feet handled and nails clipped or ground down is key to making future nail trims easier on everyone.
How often should I bathe my Collie?
How often should I bathe my Collie?
Should I cut my Collie’s hair?
Should I cut my Collie’s hair?
How often should I brush my Collie?
How often should I brush my Collie?
Collie exercise & training

Collie fun facts
Top girl names for Collies
of Collies are female
of Collies are male
Top boy names for Collies
Nationwide loves Collies of every name, from Aaron to Zog the Destroyer
| Gender | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Male | 0% |
| Female | 100% |
Among Collies insured by Nationwide, 0% are male and 100% are female.
Collie statistics: Gender ratio is 0% male and 100% female.
Other breeds like Collies
Best. Collie insurance. Ever.SM
- Pet insurance premiums starting at $25/mo.
- Visit any licensed veterinarian, anywhere
- Cancel at any time, risk-free
