The short-haired collie, also known as the smooth collie, is practically the same as the long-haired collie, with the only difference being the length of the coat. Despite its incredible characteristics, this breed is not as well known as the one with the longest coat, however, in this article we will reveal all its features, as well as its origin and history, so that you can discover this wonderful dog
By presenting a shorter coat, it has an advantage for those dog guardians who do not have enough time to take care of the dog's hair, and that is that it does not require as many brushings. Keep reading and discover with our site the characteristics of the short-haired collie, all its care and possible he alth problems.
Origin of the short-haired collie or smooth collie
These dogs originated in the Scottish highlands, along with the long-haired collie. In those mountains they fulfilled the functions of shepherd dogs, but over time they also became highly appreciated pets, although they never achieved the popularity of their long-haired relatives.
Today, the long-haired and short-haired collie are recognized as a single breed of dog by the American Kennel Club, but are treated as separate dog breeds by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI).
Characteristics of the short-haired collie or smooth collie
The Shorthaired Collie is sometimes confused with the Shorthaired Border Collie, however, they are completely different breeds. Focusing on the characteristics of the smooth collie, it is a large-sized dog, with a height at the withers of 56-61 cm in males and 51- 56 cm in females. As for the weight, it is around 20-30 kg in males and 18-25 in females.
This collie's body is athletic, slightly longer than it is tall and with a deep chest. Their legs are strong and muscular, but they are not thick. The head of this dog is thin and wedge-shaped The snout, though thin, it is not pointed; the nose is black. The eyes of the Smooth Collie are almond-shaped, medium-sized and very expressive. They are normally a dark brown, however, in merle blue dogs one or both eyes may be fully or partially blue. The ears are moderately long and the dog carries them folded backwards when it is at rest, however, when it is attentive or alert, it carries them semi-erect and forwards.
This collie's tail is long and reaches at least to the hock. At rest, the dog wears it hanging down, but with the end slightly bent upwards. During the action, the dog can carry its tail raised, but never on its back.
Short-Coated Collie Colors
The hair is what distinguishes the short-haired collie from the long-haired collie. In the Shorthair, the coat is short and flattened The outer layer is hard in texture, while the undercoat is softer and denser. There are currently three colors accepted by the FCI and they are as follows:
- Sable and white: shades from light gold to dark mahogany and with white parts.
- Tricolor: black, tan and white.
- Mirlo blue or merle: light silver blue predominates, splashed and mottled with black.
In all three patterns the color white may be present.
Character of the short-haired collie or smooth collie
Friendly and sensitive, these dogs share the excellent temperament of the Longhaired Collie. They are also very intelligent and active dogs that need plenty of exercise and companionship. They are not usually aggressive or nervous.
Short-Coated Collies need to be socialized just like any other dog. However, they have a natural tendency to be friendly with people, dogs, and other animals, so socialization usually goes smoothly. Of course, smooth collies that have not received adequate socialization can be shy and reserved with strangers.
Education of the short-haired collie or smooth collie
They respond to dog training just as well as Longhaired Collies and therefore adapt to different styles of training. However, as with all dogs, it is best to use positive training methods, such as clicker training or rewards, since they do not disturb the well-being of the animal, keep it motivated to continue learning and strengthen our bond with it. A dog will always internalize a command much better when a job well done is reinforced, in addition to stimulating his desire to continue learning.
Due to its sensitivity, it is especially important to pay close attention to our tone of voice during coexistence or training sessions, since scolding it or raising our tone could produce a fear or fear reaction in the animal. stress.
Because of their sociable nature, these dogs tend to be excellent companions when given enough physical and mental exercise, as well as the company they so desperately need. However, it is always advisable to socialize them from when they are puppies. Do not miss this other article to know how to educate a puppy correctly.
Care for the short-haired collie or smooth collie
Unlike long-haired collies, short-haired collies don't need as much grooming. They shed regularly and even more so during the two annual shedding seasons, but brushing once or twice a week is usually enough to keep the coat in good condition. conditions. It is also not advisable to bathe these dogs very often, only when it is really necessary.
Short-Coated Collies are herding dogs and as such need a lot of exercise and companionshipThey require long walks each day and play time. If possible, it is also recommended that they practice a sport for dogs, such as herding, agility or canine freestyle.
These dogs can get used to living in an apartment or flat if given enough physical and mental exercise, but they live better in a house with a garden. Therefore, it is important to guarantee a good environmental enrichment at home, with a variety of toys, intelligence games, etc., as well as spending time each day playing with them. They are dogs that need family company, so the garden should be for physical activities and not to isolate the dog.
He alth of the collie of short hair or collie smooth
Some of the hereditary diseases to which the Short-haired Collie is prone are:
- Collie Eye Anomaly
- Gastric torsion
- Distichiasis
- Deafness
As you can see, the Smooth Collie can be a dog that enjoys impeccable he alth if it is given all the care it needs, regular veterinary check-ups are followed to detect previous pathologies in time, it is maintained up to date on the vaccination schedule and is dewormed when it comes to it. Likewise, whenever you notice a sudden change in your smooth collie's behavior, don't hesitate to go to the vet
Where to adopt a short-haired collie or smooth collie?
Although it is not so common to find these dogs up for adoption, it is possible to find purebred or mestizo specimens at animal protection organizations, shelters and associationsFor this reason, we encourage you to contact the closest to your place of residence to ask if they have a short-haired collie, whether purebred or not, to adopt and receive a second chance.
It should be noted that, when adopting a dog, the most important thing is not its breed, but that we can really cover its needs and offer it the best possible life. Therefore, before making this decision, check that you can offer the smooth collie the amount of exercise he needs, as well as the company.
