Which Collie Breeds Are Best Pets for Children?

When it comes to choosing a Collie breed as a pet for children in the UK, it’s important to balance their well-known intelligence and loyalty with the realities of their temperament and care requirements. Originating as herding dogs, many Collie types carry natural instincts and energy levels that parents should understand before inviting one into a family home.

This article explores five popular Collie breeds, describing their personality traits, exercise needs, suitability around kids, and important considerations for responsible ownership. Our goal is to help you select the right breed to create a safe, loving environment for both your children and the dog.

Border Collies

The Border Collie remains one of the most intelligent and energetic dog breeds widely admired across the UK. They thrive on tasks and mental challenges, excelling in agility and obedience games. Their deep loyalty and affectionate nature make them wonderful companions in active households.

However, their intense herding instincts can lead to nipping, especially around small children, as they may try to herd by gently biting ankles. This behaviour can be managed but requires consistent training and supervision. Families considering a Border Collie should ensure enough physical and mental exercise—often several hours daily—to keep the dog happy and reduced risk of boredom-related behaviours such as barking or chewing.

It’s advisable to choose a pup from a domesticated line rather than a working dog line to minimise strong herding impulses. Always seek out reputable breeders who prioritise temperament and socialisation for family suitability.

Australian Cattle Dogs

The Australian Cattle Dog is a tenacious herder known for its high energy and protective nature. While they can be loyal family members, their nipping instinct is typically stronger than Border Collies, making them a less ideal choice for families with very young children.

Females of the breed tend to be calmer than males, which often display alpha tendencies with a need to establish a single, consistent ‘master.’ The breed requires extensive daily exercise and enjoys challenging activities. They are not built for gentle play with children and do best in homes where rough and tumble is minimal and where owners have experience managing strong-willed breeds.

Rough Collies

The Rough Collie, famously portrayed as Lassie, offers a more gentle and relaxed temperament well-suited to families. They bond strongly with children, showing great patience and protection without the high nip reflex common in working herds.

Though they require regular grooming due to their long, dense coats, Rough Collies settle faster into domestic life after puppyhood and training. Their friendly, empathetic nature means they are most likely to become snuggle companions beloved by kids. This breed is generally considered safer for families with younger children.

The McNab Collie

The McNab Collie is less widely known but offers an affectionate and intelligent alternative. Compared to the Border Collie, McNabs tend to bark or howl more, which might be challenging for some households with small children or noise sensitivities.

They have a strong bond with a single person but require firm and consistent training to channel their energy positively. Their exercise needs are high though slightly less than Border Collies. Though affectionate and reliable, they may not have the playful exuberance of other Collies. Supervision and early socialisation remain crucial.

Bearded Collies

Bearded Collies, with their distinctive shaggy coat, charm families and children alike. The Bearded Collie tends to enjoy play and interaction but also shares herding instincts which may include nipping. Early training and careful supervision around small children allow for safe, happy relationships.

Their grooming needs are substantial; regular brushing is necessary to prevent mats and tangles. They are affectionate dogs who are happy to lounge with children after play, making them delightful companions in the family home if their exercise and care needs are met.

Tips for Families Choosing a Collie for Children

• Age Suitability: Collies are best matched with families having children aged 5 years and older, as very young children may be startled by herding behaviours.
• Training and Socialisation: Early, positive, reward-based training is essential to manage nipping and channel natural instincts.
• Exercise Commitment: All herding breeds require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to stay well-balanced and content.
• Supervised Interaction: Always supervise interactions between dogs and young children, teaching both how to respect each other’s boundaries.
• Responsible Breeding: Acquire puppies from knowledgeable, reputable breeders emphasising health, temperament, and socialisation, reducing risks of problematic behaviours.

Choosing the right Collie breed means understanding each breed’s unique personality and care needs alongside your family’s lifestyle. With patience, training, and love, a Collie can become a cherished, trustworthy companion for children, teaching them about empathy and responsibility while enriching family life.