Smooth Collie
The short-coated variety of the Collie, an elegant Scottish herding dog. Gentle, intelligent and devoted, an easy-to-train family companion that is far lower-maintenance than its rough-coated cousin.
Overview
The short-coated variety of the Collie, an elegant Scottish herding dog. Gentle, intelligent and devoted, an easy-to-train family companion that is far lower-maintenance than its rough-coated cousin.
Good to know — a Smooth Collie is best with a garden and good for first-time owners. Every dog is an individual, so meet a few and chat to a good breeder or rescue before deciding.
Temperament & family fit
In general, a Smooth Collie is good with children and sociable with other dogs. They tend to be a moderate barker, and as a guide they are good for first-time owners. Early socialisation, reward-based training and supervision around young children make all the difference.
- Families with children of all ages
- Committed first-time owners
- Homes with a secure garden
Exercise needs
A healthy adult Smooth Collie typically needs around an hour a day (roughly 60–80 minutes), split across walks, play and a little training. A good sniffy walk, some play and a little training usually keeps them content. Puppies, seniors and dogs with health conditions need adjusted amounts — check with your vet.
Grooming & coat
Coat upkeep is easy-care and shedding is high. A quick brush now and then, plus the occasional bath when needed, is usually plenty.
- Brush occasionally to remove loose hair
- Bathe every few weeks or as needed
- Check ears, nails and teeth weekly
Feeding considerations
Like any dog, a Smooth Collie should get most of its nutrition from a complete, balanced dog food suited to its size and life stage. Portions scale with body weight and activity, so a large breed will eat a fair amount compared with other breeds — follow the food’s feeding guide and your vet’s advice, and weigh portions to avoid creeping weight gain. Treats should make up no more than about 10% of daily calories.
Pros & cons
The good bits
- Gentle, trainable and great with children
- Easy-care short coat
Things to consider
- Sheds heavily, especially seasonally
- Sensitive and can be a watchful barker
Similar breeds
Labrador Retriever
The UK’s most popular family dog — friendly, biddable and brilliant with children, but needs proper exercise.
View breed guide →
Golden Retriever
Gentle, eager-to-please and devoted — a classic family companion that thrives on company and exercise.
View breed guide →
German Shepherd
A loyal, courageous and highly trainable working dog that needs experienced handling and plenty to do.
View breed guide →
Greyhound
The ultimate couch potato — despite their racing reputation, retired greyhounds need surprisingly little exercise.
View breed guide →Frequently asked questions
Are Smooth Collies good with children?
Good with children. As a general guide, Smooth Collies tend to be patient and tolerant. Whatever the breed, always supervise dogs and young children and teach kids to interact gently.
How much exercise does a Smooth Collie need?
As a healthy adult, a typical Smooth Collie needs around an hour of exercise a day (60–80 minutes), split across walks plus play. A good sniffy walk plus some play and training usually keeps them happy. Puppies, seniors and dogs with health conditions need less — ask your vet.
Do Smooth Collies shed a lot?
High shedding. Coat upkeep is easy-care — a quick brush now and then is usually enough.
Are Smooth Collies easy to train and good for first-time owners?
Good for first-time owners. Smooth Collies are generally a forgiving choice for first-time owners who put in early training and socialisation. Reward-based training and early socialisation help any dog.
Do Smooth Collies bark a lot?
Moderate barker. They are usually fairly easy-going about barking, though any dog will bark if bored or under-exercised.
Are Smooth Collies good with other dogs?
Sociable with other dogs. Early, positive socialisation with other dogs from a young age makes a big difference.
Do Smooth Collies suit flats or smaller homes?
Best with a garden. A Smooth Collie is happiest with access to a secure garden and regular outdoor exercise.
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Every dog is an individual — temperament and needs vary. Please research thoroughly, meet dogs in person, and consider adopting from a rescue. This is general guidance, not a substitute for advice from your vet or a qualified trainer.