GROOMING

Rough Collies don't shed constantly and they don't  require  excessive grooming.  They have  a late spring  and a late summer shed.  During these major shedding periods a good brushing to remove undercoat and a bath are required.   In between these shedding periods a good brushing once a month is usually sufficient to keep the coat healthy. Regular grooming helps to prevent the coat from matting. The Rough Collie’s luxurious coat is surprisingly low maintenance; it repels water and dirt, and the breed has naturally clean habits.  Between brushing, the coat can be wiped down with a wet cloth to remove any dirt/dust.

It's a good idea to get your Collie puppy used to being on a grooming table.  It's so much easier to brush them when they're in your world.  It's also easier on your back! Always spray the coat with water while line brushing.  Never brush the coat dry.  

During a grooming session it's also important to trim their nails if necessary.

SOCIALIZING / TRAINING / TEMPERAMENT

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SOCIALIZING / TRAINING / TEMPERAMENT

Collie puppies usually don't rush headlong and heedless into new events.  They notice everyone and everything and usually prefer to take enough time to think for themselves if this new thing is to be fun or to be avoided.  Often they look to their person if this new person or experience is a good thing.  Collie owners should prioritize early socialization and positive reinforcement training.  There are many good positive reinforcement trainers who offer puppy classes.  Collies thrive on companionship  and mental stimulation. Daily exercise and engaging in activities are essential for their physical and emotional well-being.  Usually a 15 minute play session and a 30 minute walk are sufficient for a Collie's well being.  Collies are easy to train, robust and lower energy dogs. Their energy level is easy to manage!  They are happy playing, walking or just cuddling on the couch  with their people!

HEALTH / VACCINATION PROTOCOL

Collies are a relatively healthy breed.  They have an inherit desire to stay out of harms' way.  In the 45 years of being involved with the breed I've had very few health issues.  My vet expenses have been fairly low.  Regular veterinary check-ups, including vaccinations and parasite prevention, are important   Follow the recommendations of your breeder.  I provide a vaccination protocol using Dr Jean Dodd's recommendations.  If a health issue arises I am available for assistance.  Sometimes a solution is easy and it may avoid an expensive veterinary visit. 

FEEDING - DIET

Collies are easy keepers.  I feed my adult males 3 cups and my adult females 2 cups of a good quality kibble per day.  I mix  2/3 Canadian Naturals Turkey and Salmon and 1/3 PetKind Green tripe Bison formula kibble.  I also add a small amount of olive oil, cooked eggs or sardines. or cooked meat to the kibble.  They have very few stomach issues on this diet.  The occasional raw knuckle bone helps to clean their teeth.