Consider These 13 Factors Before Purchasing a Scotch Collie Puppy
If you’ve ever seen those classic farm paintings with a fluffy Collie herding sheep or watching over kids in a sun-drenched field — that dog was probably a Scotch Collie. Sometimes called the “Old-Fashioned Collie,” this breed has deep roots in the Scottish Highlands and was once the all-purpose farmhand: herder, guardian, cart-puller, and loyal companion.
Over the years, the modern Rough and Smooth Collies were bred from this original stock, and sadly, Scotch Collies are much rarer today. But if you’re looking for a smart, family-friendly dog with old-world charm, the Scotch Collie might be just what you’re after.
What It’s Like Living with a Scotch Collie
1. Super Smart and Eager to Please
These dogs are whip-smart — no surprise since they were bred to think on their feet while managing livestock. That intelligence makes them easy to train, especially with positive reinforcement. They pick up commands quickly and genuinely enjoy working with you.
We always recommend starting with basic obedience early on — sit, stay, come, leash walking — and gradually adding more complex tasks. Scotch Collies thrive when they’re mentally engaged, so games like fetch, hide-and-seek, and puzzle toys are great additions to their routine.
2. Big Hearts, Especially for Families
Scotch Collies are natural family dogs. They’re gentle, affectionate, and incredibly loyal. They tend to bond closely with their humans and can be especially watchful over children — sometimes even herding them gently around the yard! It’s a behavior that stems from their herding roots, but with proper training, it can be channeled into fun games instead of becoming a nuisance.
They usually get along well with other pets too — dogs, cats, birds — and they’re tolerant with young kids. Like any breed, early socialization makes a big difference here.
3. High-Energy, Outdoorsy Dogs
If you’re active and love being outside, a Scotch Collie will be right there with you. They need a solid hour of exercise daily, whether that’s a brisk walk, a game of Frisbee, or some agility training. Without enough activity, they can get bored — and a bored Collie can become a barky, restless Collie.
Speaking of barking: they do bark. A lot. It’s in their DNA — barking was how they alerted shepherds to danger. If left alone too long or under-stimulated, they can get noisy. Keeping their minds and bodies busy makes a huge difference.
4. Grooming: Manageable with Routine
They’ve got a thick double coat — soft undercoat and a longer topcoat — which means regular brushing is key. A good pin brush and a steel comb will help keep mats and tangles at bay. We usually brush ours a few times a week, with more frequent sessions during shedding season (spring and fall).
No need to shave their coat in summer — it's actually protective. Just keep it clean and tangle-free. And don’t forget the basics: trim nails monthly, brush teeth a few times a week, and check ears regularly for dirt or signs of infection.
5. What to Feed and Watch For
Scotch Collies are medium to large dogs (think 40–70 lbs), and their diet should match their energy levels. High-quality protein is essential. We break up their food into two or three smaller meals a day to reduce the risk of bloat — and we keep playtime separate from mealtime for the same reason.
Watch their weight, especially as they get older or less active. And keep fresh water available, but try not to let them gulp down huge amounts right after exercise or food.
6. Not Just Another Pretty Face
While not officially recognized as a purebred by major kennel clubs, the Scotch Collie is a “landrace” dog — meaning it developed naturally over time to suit its environment and job, rather than being bred to strict appearance standards. This gives them a nice mix of traits and often a bit more genetic diversity, which can mean fewer inherited health problems.
Still, since they’re a rarer breed, it’s really important to go through a responsible breeder who health-tests their dogs. That’s your best bet for a happy, healthy pup.
Is a Scotch Collie Right for You?
If you’re looking for a loyal, intelligent, active dog who’ll happily join your outdoor adventures, play with your kids, and curl up next to you at night, the Scotch Collie is a solid choice.
They’re not couch potatoes, and they do need consistent training, exercise, and grooming. But in return, you’ll get a devoted companion with a kind heart and a work ethic that just won’t quit.
These old-fashioned farm dogs may be rare, but they’re unforgettable.
