If you are looking for a friend, protector or solid working companion, a litter of Collie puppies may be just the place to start.
Collie puppies come in two varieties. 
There
is the "Lassie" collie familiar to most of us, the rough-coated collie. There is
also an equally handsome and versatile smooth-coated collie. Both are recognized
by the American Kennel Club (AKC) and are judged to the same standard in every
way except in regard to their coat.
Collie puppies of both types trace a long history in their native Scotland, where they were used and cherished as hardy working dogs, herding sheep and cattle. While most collies in the United States today, rough or smooth are probably not responsible for a herd of sheep, they retain the active, alert, protective demeanor of the herding dog.
When choosing Collie puppies, you will have to make more choices than just rough or smooth. Collie puppies present a tempting array of color choices: sable and white, tricolor (mostly black and white, with tan markings), blue merle and white (mostly white with sable, black or blue merle markings.)
Collie puppies will grow into active, gentle, eager dogs who, while mild-mannered are known for their protective natures, and a special affinity for small children. Like all their fellow members of the herding group, Collie puppies need a firm, gentle hand in their training, for they are sometimes known to be a bit stubborn and have a definite mind of their own.
Collie puppies will not stay small, either. Full grown male collies measure 24-26" at the shoulder and weigh 60-75 pounds. Females measure about 22-24" at the shoulder, weighing in at 50-65 pounds. To keep them at their trim best, collies need a good amount of daily exercise - at least a good walk or jog, or a safe place in which to exercise on their own.
The sweet expression of
Collie puppies is almost as well-known as their glorious coat, especially
of course for the rough
brushings. While smooth-coated collies may only require twice weekly
brushings, the rough collie needs brushing at least every other day, and more
while shedding.
Collie puppies are dogs that will require a commitment from you on many levels, with their need for exercise, grooming and firm, gentle handling during training. They will give you back so much more with their loyal, loving, protective natures. Bred to be working dogs, Collie puppies are proud and cautious dogs that respond well to an upbeat tone of voice. And, they will reward their families with their self-appointed guardianship.
The collie has long been a popular dog in the United States, as well as in its native lands of Scotland and Northern England. No doubt, Collie puppies became even more popular in the United States thanks to the many books of Albert Payson Terhune, who wrote "Lad: A Dog", and many other books featuring rough-collie heroes and heroines. More recently, the TV adventures of "Lassie", the most famous rough-coated collie of them all, boosted the popularity of this breed, and sent many families on the hunt for Collie puppies.
