Rough collie dogs are thought to be ardent, devoted, affectionate, quick-witted, and responsive. The majority of the time, they are pleased to imitate bear rugs.
Yet, why are rough collies not popular? There are various solutions. With the help of the precise facts provided below, let’s find out.
About Rough Collies
History
The Scottish Highlands are the Rough Collie’s original home. Farmers and shepherds carefully raised them to have the qualities needed for managing and protecting tenacious flocks of sheep.
In the 19th century, Queen Victoria brought the species to the public’s attention, and the wealthy upper class immediately adopted it as a favorite.
The Rough Collie experienced a massive rise in popularity throughout the 20th century, thanks to Lassie and Elizabeth Taylor. Some people prefer to call them Lassie collies.
Compared to its forebears, the contemporary Rough Collie is a gentler dog more suitable for companionship and pet keeping. The American Kennel Club appreciates them.
Personality
Most people associate the rough collie demeanor with intelligence, rapid learning, and sensitivity to people. Generally speaking, they are exceedingly devoted, loyal, and trustworthy.
Rough Collies are like kids, often forming strong relationships with every family member. Collies are an amazing breed that views everyone as a friend.
Size
The male collie is significantly larger than the female, and both sexes are large to medium-sized dogs. They weigh between 50 and 70 pounds and stand between 22 and 26 inches tall at the shoulder.
The Rough Collie is a rough coat collie. She has a soft undercoat, making it difficult to see the skin underneath its thick, straight, rough-to-the-touch outer coat.
They are lighter than they appear because of their naturally small frames.
Health
The Rough Collies live rather long lives for larger herding dogs. Rough Collie lifespans typically range from 10 to 14 years. Nonetheless, they often live until the age of twelve.
The likelihood of this breed developing health problems over its lifetime is average.
everal health issues, including drug sensitivity, advanced retinal atrophy, and collie eye abnormality, are common in rough collies.
Grooming
The beautiful double coat of a rough collie needs frequent maintenance.
To keep rough collie’s skin and hair healthy, they require grooming two to three times weekly, with more brushing required during shed seasons.
Find out if I can wash my dog with cold water in summer to find the best way to wash your dog.
It’s also crucial to take care of their teeth. They are susceptible to several ailments, and thus, brushing them many times a week is best to remove plaque- and tartar-causing germs.
Why Are Rough Collies Not Popular?
Some claim that rough collies are no longer considered to be famous canines. There are various causes, such as their breed and grooming.
Shedding
Rough collies are famous because of their stunning coats. Be ready for some or a lot of furs on your furniture because it sheds a lot, is vast, and is exquisite.
There is an undercoat and a topcoat on rough collies. They often lose their undercoat once a year as the temperature warms up
Moreover, they shed throughout the year on occasion. Unfortunately, these collies are not a good match for people with allergies.
Constantly Grooming
Collies are unpopular for several reasons, including a phobia of shedding and a commitment to ongoing grooming.
They have to maintain their coat, which calls for a ton of brushing. These worries prevent some people from getting dogs.
A thorough weekly brushing was required for grooming, and every two to three months, you had to take your dog to the groomer for a wash and nail trim.
Brushing is crucial, especially in places like the belly and legs that are occasionally forgotten.
A rake with two lengths of teeth, a wide tooth comb, and a slicker for line brushing are the ideal equipment.
It will lose some beauty if you cannot set aside the necessary time each day to groom and maintain that lovely coat.
High Needs
Rough Collies are large, energetic dogs that require a lot of regular exercises and organized time with their pet parents daily to be decent canine citizens.
They have a high energy level and need regular long walks or runs.
Rough collies require at least 45 to 60 minutes of outdoor activity, including lots of running and cardiovascular exertion of canine activity, while they are slightly less energetic than border collies.
As a result, regarding activity needs, the Rough Collie is not a particularly demanding dog.
Overbreeding
Nowadays, rough collies are less common. When a dog breed becomes extremely well-liked, reputable breeders will inbreed their animals to resemble the popular ones.
Regardless of any health or temperament issues the sires and dams may have, puppy mills will continue to breed that dog.
The health and IQ of the inbred canines are worse, and the breed after that loses popularity. Rough Collies may experience aberrant eye development that results in a detached retina.
Some owners don’t know how to stop puppies from fighting. Up to 67 percent of the species are now affected by the illness, which has become so common.
Like Irish Setters, modern collie breeds have been bred more for show than work. Purebred collies are challenging to train, obstinate, and not particularly intelligent.
You hardly ever see purebred collies used as assistance dogs, trained canines for the military or police, or in obedience or agility competitions.
Rough Collie Vs Border Collie
Appearance
Compared to Rough Collies, Border Collies are shorter and stockier.
The Rough Collie has a rough coat type, and medium-length feathering on its belly, chest, and legs, and the Border Collie’s coat is usually smoother and shorter than that.
Border Collies can be 24-26 inches long with a smooth coat and weigh 50-65 pounds, while Rough Collies can weigh 60-75 pounds.
Characteristics
Rough and Border Collies were bred as working herding dogs; many still exist. Both dogs are eager to please when trained and can pick up many cues.
They seem content as pets and do well in households with kids.
Health
Both popular breeds are known for having long lifespans and are generally in good condition.
A Border Collie’s lifespan typically ranges from 12 to 15 years, and Collies have an average lifespan of 14 to 16 years. Compared to Border Collies, Rough Collies typically require less activity.
FAQs
Can Rough Collies Be Aggressive?
In general, no. Rough Collies are not an aggressive breed and don’t have aggressive behavior. Are rough collies good family dogs? Yes.
Some individuals still have sufficient herding ability to nip and move people around.
Since rough collies have historically been bred for appearance rather than function, many no longer possess a herding instinct. The majority are calm, content dogs.
Is A Rough Collie A Border Collie?
No, is the response. What was formerly known as a “Standard Collie” is a rough collie. Both types share certain ancestor types, though it’s unlikely that you could pinpoint specific dogs in that ancestry.
How Do You Take Care Of A Rough Collie?
To keep your dog’s mind and body busy, brush him thoroughly daily, then comb through with a wide-toothed comb. You can locate a trained groomer with knowledge of the breed.
Conclusion
You can now get an answer to the query “why are rough collies not popular” after reading the article. Rough Collies are gentle, affectionate dogs that genuinely want to please their people.
So consider being a rough collie fan if you don’t mind the stuff above.
