Collies are beautiful, energetic, and intelligent dogs. Whether you’re looking to adopt one of these lovable pups or just like learning about dogs, here are a few interesting facts to know about rough collies.
There are Different Types of the Same Breed
The American Kennel Club sorts collies into two categories—rough and smooth—based on their coats. Rough collies have a soft, fuzzy undercoat and a dense, straight outer coat. This outer coat is what gives rough collies their distinctive fluffy look.
Smooth collies do not have an outer coat. Because of this, their fur is much less voluminous than their rough counterparts. Other than their coat textures, there are no other differences between rough and smooth collies.
Border collies, however, are a different story. Border collies were bred in a different area of Scotland, so some distinctions separate the two breeds.
There are Several Coat Variations
The American Kennel Club recognizes four distinct coat colors for rough and smooth collies. These colors include white, sable (brown) and white, tri-color (black, brown, and white), and blue merle (black, white, and blue-grey).
The blue merle gene is responsible for the bright blue eyes collies can have! The blue merle coat is a striking mottled look prioritized by many breeders, but collies of all varieties have beautiful coat patterns.
Be aware rough collies require regular grooming to look their best. Their dense coat can knot and tangle if not properly cared for.
They are the Face of a University
Texas A&M University, the oldest school in Texas, has a border collie as its mascot! Reveille, or Miss Rev, students affectionately call her, is the highest-ranking member of the school’s Corp of Cadets and the First Lady of Aggieland.
The university entrusts her to a Cadet for the school year. During this time, she accompanies them to all their meals and classes. Fun fact: if Miss Rev barks during a class, she finds the class boring and declares the class dismissed. And yes, some professors actually honor this tradition by ending class early!
Rough collies are beautiful dogs, and now you know some interesting facts about them to share with your friends!
