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Collie Colours & Coat Types

Most people recognize the Rough Collie, especially if it is a sable, due to the fame associated with Lassie.  Many people are surprised to learn Collies actually come in a variety of colours and people are often even more surprised to learn that Collies actually come in two distinct coats - the Rough-coated Collie and the Smooth-coated Collie.

Examples in the “Collie Colours & Coat Types” are shown with special thanks to Sandi Hamilton of Glasgowhill Collies for providing most of the  photos to help illustrate the two coat types and the variety of colours.

Coat Types

Rough Collie: This is what most people know Collies to be.  A Rough Collie is the long-haired version, with a distinctive long, straight coat that is thicker around the chest and collar and a soft, furry undercoat.  

Smooth Collie: The Smooth Collie is exactly the same as the Rough Collie but for the short, flat, dense coat with an abundant undercoat.  

The Rough Collie and the Smooth Collie are the same breed. Depending on genetics and pairings, a Smooth Collie can give birth to a litter comprised of some Smooth Collie puppies and some Rough Collie puppies.  Just as a Rough Collie can have a litter made up of a combination of Smooth and Rough puppies.  

Smooth Collie

Rough Collie

Collie Colours