A robust, handsome, active dog, still used as a sheepdog but also a guard dog, rescue dog and guide dog.  These dogs are most handsome, and their eyes and ears give the true expression of the collie.  Their ears are very mobile and expressive, and are set not too close together on the top of the skull.  The body is long compared to the height, has a thick and dense coat, especially at the collar.  There are three recognised colours: sable and white, tricolour and blue merle.

The smooth-haired collie is not nearly so numerous as his long-coated friend.  The coat has a harsh texture with a very dense undercoat.