Rough Collie Versus Smooth Collie

Important Differences Between the Rough Collie and Smooth Collie

The most crucial difference between the smooth collie and rough collie is the type of coat each has. The rough collie has a longer outer coat with a soft undercoat, while the smooth collie does not have the longer outer coat, and so has a short coat.

The difference in genetics between the two types is not as clear. The American Kennel Club identifies the smooth and rough collie types as one singular breed. Conversely, The World Canine Organization recognizes the smooth and rough collie as separate breeds.

Some experts also claim the smooth collie has maintained more of its working-dog instincts than the rough collie. This means the smooth collie may show more herding instincts and could be more likely to bark as compared to the rough collie. The smooth collie may also need more exercise than the rough collie.

Two Rough Collies
Two Rough Collies

Important Similarities Between the Rough and Smooth Collie

After the differences in appearance, smooth and rough collies are more similar than they are different. Both are highly intelligent dogs, loyal with a desire to please.

They both are good with children and benefit from physical and mental exercise. However, the rough and smooth collie can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for long periods.

smooth collie playing with a child
Smooth Collie

Are there Size Differences Between the Rough and Smooth Border Collie?

There are no size differences between the rough and smooth collie. Both dogs are considered medium-sized. The height of smooth and rough collies averages between 22 and 26 inches, and they typically weigh between 40 and 70lbs. Females of both breeds will be slightly smaller than males. The rough collie may look larger if the undercoat is very fluffy, creating a bulky profile.

rough collies
Rough Collies

Is there a Price Difference Between the Smooth and Rough Collie?

There is no price difference between the smooth and rough collie. The price of both smooth and rough collies can range from $800-$1500.

The higher price will likely be due to the dog’s pedigree, gender, and breeder’s location. Females and puppies with impressive genetics will fetch a high price. Finding breeders of smooth and rough border collies is not difficult to do.

Smooth Collie

Are there Personality Differences Between the Rough and Smooth Collie?

The rough and smooth border collies are more alike than they are different. They are intelligent, and there is debate as to whether or not the smooth and rough collies are different breeds and would therefore have discernable differences in personality.

Some argue the smooth border collie is slightly more active than the docile rough collie. The smooth collie may also demonstrate more herding tendencies. This means the smooth collie may try to herd cars, and bicyclists or nip at the heels of children.  

rough collie
Rough Collie

Are there Lifespan Differences between the Smooth and Rough Collie?

There is a slight lifespan difference between the smooth and rough collie. The rough collie’s average lifespan is 14-16 years, and the smooth collie is 12-15 years.

The reason for this difference is not known, but it could be due to how many rough collies live comfortable lives as house pets compared to the number of rough collies who are busy working dogs.

Regardless, both rough and smooth collies are considered ‘long-lived’ dogs. For example, Babs, a rough collie from Wales, lived to be over 20 years old!

Do Rough Collies and Smooth Collies Suffer the Same Health Problems?

Yes, rough and smooth collies are vulnerable to the same health problems. Both rough and smooth collies have genetic predispositions to collie eye anomalies.

The collie eye anomaly condition is very common and can be mild. More severe presentations, however, can result in permanent blindness. A veterinarian should test rough and smooth collies before six weeks of age when the anomaly can be identified. The condition will not get worse over time.

Smooth and rough collies are often vulnerable to another eye condition called progressive retinal atrophy. This disease disintegrates the retinas leading to eventual blindness. The first evidence of this disease will be trouble with night vision and progress from there. Unfortunately, there is no treatment for progressive retinal atrophy, but many dogs adjust successfully to their loss of sight.

Other health conditions found in smooth and rough collies include epilepsy, multi-drug sensitivity, and bloat (or gastric dilation volvulus). These can be successfully identified and managed with the help of your veterinarian.

Do Rough and Smooth collies Have Different Exercise Needs?

Like their potential personality differences, there seems to be some debate on this question. Some will say rough and smooth border collies are the same breed, and the coat is the only difference. Others will say the smooth border collie is genetically closer to their working ancestors and will need more exercise.

The rough collie is almost always described as needing moderate activity. Although each individual dog will have its own personality and needs, if a dog that requires a lot of exercises is not what you are looking for, it may be best to choose a rough collie.

smooth collie
Smooth Collie

Why have Rough Collies Declined in Popularity?

In 1943 the film ‘Lassie Come Home’ debuted, and in 1954 began the Emmy-winning Lassie television show. The movie and TV show featured a rough collie playing the title character of Lassie. This resulted in collies being named one of the top 10 American dog breeds during the 1950s, ’60s, and ’70s. However, by the 1980s, collies had fallen off the top 10 list, and as of 2021, collies, both smooth and rough, are the 38th most popular dog breed in the United States.

One can chalk the reason for the decline up to changing tastes. Popular dog breeds come and go. Today the number two most popular dog breed is the french bulldog, popularized in the media to be both chic and portable. So despite the many health issues found in the breed, the french bulldog has skyrocketed in popularity.

Grooming the Rough Collie Versus the Smooth Collie

The rough collie will be more of a challenge to groom than the smooth collie. The undercoat of the rough collie, if not brushed regularly, can create mats as it becomes tangled with the longer outer coat. Therefore, the rough collie should be brushed weekly.

In addition, an undercoat rake is a valuable tool for getting rid of dead undercoat hairs and controlling shedding. The Ruff ‘n Ruffus Double-Sided Professional Grade Undercoat Pet Rake Brush has almost all 5-star reviews and is an affordable option for this task.

The smooth collie does have an undercoat, so it will still shed at certain times of the year. However, regular weekly brushing will help with the shedding and keep your smooth collie free of dead hair.

rough collie brush
Undercoat brush for the rough collie

Who Sheds More Often? Smooth Collies or Rough Collies?

There is no difference in the shedding process between smooth and rough collies. Both the rough collie and the smooth collie will shed their undercoat once or twice a year.

However, the rough collie will appear to shed more because of their longer hair. Their shed fur will be more evident around the home as the long strands clump together. Preventing the shedding will undoubtedly take longer with the rough collie as you will invest more time in brushing their long hair.

rough collies
Rough Collies

Do Smooth Collies Bark a lot?

Both the rough and smooth collies are known to bark, sometimes to excess. They will bark to alert you to any exciting or concerning visual stimulation. They will also bark if bored, asking for attention and something to do.

This barking behavior can turn extreme when the smooth collie is left home alone. If you subscribe to the notion that the smooth collie behaves more like its working sheepdog ancestors, you could conclude the smooth collie would bark more than the rough collie.

Nevertheless, excessive barking with any dog can be corrected with early and appropriate training.  

Are Rough Collies more Aggressive than Smooth Collies?

No, neither the rough nor smooth collie are considered to be aggressive dogs.

If the smooth collie does, in fact, retain more natural herding instincts, you could see some nipping behavior during the puppy stage. However, both rough and smooth collies are known to be gentle dogs who are great companions for children. For example, in the Lassie movies and television shows, Lassie the rough collie always saves the day and takes care of Timmy, his child owner. A quick Google search will find many modern stories of collies protecting their loved ones.

Which is a Better Family Dog, the Rough or Smooth Collie?

Both the rough and smooth collie make great family dogs. Both are loyal and intelligent, respond well to training, and are gentle with children. In addition, smooth and rough collies have relatively long lifespans and generally few health problems. Some say the smooth collie will need more exercise than the rough, but if you are willing and able to provide the exercise they need, they are sure to be a wonderful family pet.