Rough Collie Health Testing: hereditary care guide

The rough collie, often affectionately called the "Lassie" dog after the famous TV character, is a medium to large breed originally bred in Scotland for herding. They are distinguished by their long, dense double coat and their striking appearance, which often makes them seem larger than their actual size. Males typically stand up to 26 inches tall at the withers and can weigh up to 34kg, while females are slightly smaller.

Their thick coat requires regular grooming and brushing to maintain health and prevent matting, including attention to the dense undercoat. Rough collies come in various colours such as tricolour, sable, merle, double merle, and mahogany sable, each with some variants.

If you are considering welcoming a rough collie into your home, it’s important to also understand the breed’s health considerations, especially hereditary health issues, and the importance of health testing for responsible ownership and breeding.

Rough Collie Health and Longevity

The average lifespan for a rough collie is between 12 and 15 years, which is relatively good for their size. However, like many pedigree breeds, they are predisposed to certain genetic conditions that responsible breeders and owners should be aware of.

Understanding Hereditary Health Risks

Rough collies have a relatively high coefficient of inbreeding (about 14.3%), which means there is a significant amount of relatedness in their lineage. This can increase the risk of inherited health problems. The recommended goal is to reduce this coefficient closer to 6.25% or lower to help maintain genetic diversity and breed vitality.

The breed is known to carry specific hereditary conditions that can affect their quality of life, but thankfully there are tests available to screen for these conditions to minimise the risk.

Key Health Tests for Rough Collies

Leading authorities such as the Kennel Club and British Veterinary Association recommend the following health assessments prior to breeding:

• MDR1 Genetic Test: This test identifies multidrug sensitivity caused by a mutation in the MDR1 gene. Collies with this mutation can have severe neurological reactions to common medications such as ivermectin. Knowing a dog’s MDR1 status is critical both for breeding and safe medical treatment.
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): A degenerative eye disorder that leads to blindness. DNA testing allows breeders to avoid producing affected puppies by identifying carriers and affected dogs.
• Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA): Another hereditary eye condition involving abnormal eye development, which can affect vision. This is detected by DNA testing and ophthalmologist evaluations.
• Hip and Elbow Evaluations: Orthopaedic assessments to screen for dysplasia and joint health.
• Patella Evaluation: Checks for luxating patella, which can cause lameness and discomfort.
• Thyroid Function Tests: Hypothyroidism screening is recommended due to potential breed predisposition.
• Ophthalmologist Examination: A specialist eye check to complement genetic testing.

Additional Health Concerns

Besides the testable hereditary conditions, rough collies have some other health vulnerabilities that owners should monitor:

• Some types of cancers, particularly skin and stomach cancers, which are among the common causes of death in the breed.
• Idiopathic epilepsy, a neurological disorder causing seizures.
• Entropion and corneal dystrophy affecting eye health.
• Pyometra, a severe infection of the uterus in un-neutered females, especially as they age.
• Renal amyloidosis, a kidney disorder.
• Cutaneous lupus erythematosus, an autoimmune skin condition causing scaling and pigment loss.
• Various dermatitis types.
• Increased sensitivity to some drugs, again emphasising the importance of MDR1 testing.
• Pancreatitis and exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, which cause digestive and weight issues.
• Haemophilia, a blood clotting disorder.
• Carpal hyperextension syndrome affecting wrist joints.
• Risk of deafness particularly in merle and double merle coloured dogs.

Heat Sensitivity and Coat Care

Due to their thick double coat, rough collies may struggle to regulate their body temperature in hot weather. Owners should ensure they have access to shade and fresh water at all times during warm periods to avoid overheating. Regular grooming not only keeps the coat healthy but can help with temperature regulation by preventing mats and allowing air circulation.

Choosing a Responsible Breeder for a Rough Collie Puppy

When searching for rough collie puppies, it is essential to look for reputable breeders who perform and provide documentation of all recommended health testing for their breeding dogs. This effort helps to reduce hereditary health issues and promotes the overall welfare of the breed.

A responsible breeder will also be open about the breed's health risks and support you with information on any test results and your puppy's care requirements.

Conclusion

If you are passionate about owning a rough collie, understanding their hereditary health risks and the importance of health testing is crucial. Regular grooming and special attention to heat sensitivity are also part of responsible care for this beautiful breed.

Health testing for MDR1, PRA, CEA, as well as joint and thyroid evaluations, are essential tools to safeguard the breed’s future and ensure your pet enjoys the best possible quality of life. Partnering with responsible breeders is key to this process, ensuring ethical breeding practices and healthier dogs for generations to come.