Consider These 15 Factors Before Purchasing a Smooth Collie Puppy
If you've ever met a Smooth Collie, you know how effortlessly charming they are. These athletic, affectionate dogs were originally bred in the Scottish Highlands to herd sheep — and while they’ve traded the hills for backyards and family homes, that working dog spirit is still alive and well.
We’ve had our fair share of experience with high-energy herding breeds, and the Smooth Collie is one of those dogs that gives back every ounce of love and effort you put into them. But before you bring one home, here’s what you really need to know.
They’re Smart, Sensitive, and Seriously Active
Smooth Collies are incredibly intelligent — they pick up on routines, voice tones, and even your moods. But that also means they need mental and physical stimulation every single day. Bored Collies will find their own entertainment — usually involving barking, digging, or herding your kids around the living room.
They’re happiest when they have a job, whether that’s advanced training, agility, puzzle toys, or just being your jogging buddy. We’d recommend at least an hour of active exercise every day, plus regular brain games to keep them mentally sharp.
If you don’t have the time or energy for that kind of commitment, this probably isn’t the breed for you.
They Herd... Everything
That herding instinct doesn’t just vanish because they’re no longer on a farm. Smooth Collies will try to herd children, cats, and sometimes even bikes or cars. It’s not aggression — it’s instinct. But it does mean early training and supervision are a must.
We’ve found that redirecting that herding drive into structured play (like fetch or obstacle courses) works wonders. And socializing them early — with other dogs, people, and new environments — helps a lot with curbing reactive behaviors.
Gentle and Family-Oriented (With a Side of Velcro-Dog)
These dogs bond deeply with their people. If you’re looking for a loyal companion who wants to be part of everything you do, the Smooth Collie is a dream. They’re sweet with children, often acting as gentle playmates or even furry babysitters. But they’re also sensitive — harsh training or being left alone for long hours can really affect them.
They thrive in homes where they’re included in daily life. Whether it’s a family with kids or an active single person, what they want most is to be near their humans.
Grooming and Maintenance? Pretty Easy
Unlike the more famous Rough Collie (think Lassie), Smooth Collies have a short, dense coat that’s low-maintenance. A weekly brushing usually keeps shedding under control. Bathing isn’t needed often unless they roll in something awful — which, let’s be honest, some herding dogs love to do.
Keep their nails trimmed, ears clean, and teeth brushed regularly, and you’re good to go. Compared to many breeds, they’re refreshingly easy to care for in the grooming department.
Health and Diet Basics
Smooth Collies are generally healthy, with a lifespan of 12–14 years. But like many purebreds, they’re prone to a few specific issues — like Collie Eye Anomaly, hip dysplasia, and sensitivity to certain medications (due to the MDR1 gene mutation). A responsible breeder should screen for these, so always ask for health testing info.
For food, stick with a high-quality diet rich in protein and healthy fats. Adults usually do fine with two meals a day, while puppies need more frequent feeding. Like with any active breed, avoid feeding too close to intense exercise to prevent digestive issues.
Barking and Alone Time
Let’s be real — Smooth Collies can be vocal. They’re alert, expressive dogs, and if they’re under-stimulated or left alone too long, they’ll let you know. If noise is a deal-breaker, this isn’t the breed for you.
But when they’re exercised, mentally stimulated, and kept in the loop with family life? They’re much calmer and less prone to barking just for the sake of it.
Rare but Worth the Search
Smooth Collies are much less common than Rough Collies, especially outside of the UK. But their sweet temperament, minimal grooming needs, and family-friendly nature are helping them gain popularity. They’re not overbred, which is a big plus in terms of health and temperament.
If you're serious about getting one, be ready to do some digging to find a reputable breeder or rescue. The wait is worth it.
Final Thoughts
Smooth Collies are one of those hidden gems in the dog world. They’re smart, gentle, devoted, and energetic — ideal for families or individuals who want a real companion and are willing to put in the time to meet their needs.
But they’re not couch potatoes. These dogs were bred to move, think, and be part of a team. If that sounds like your lifestyle, the Smooth Collie might just be your perfect match.
