Collie (Rough) vs Golden Retriever

Herding · Large vs Sporting · Large

Quick take
  • Golden Retriever is the larger breed at 65–75 lbs (males) vs 60–75 lbs for the Collie (Rough).
  • The Collie (Rough) typically lives longer (12–14 years).
  • The Golden Retriever has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Collie (Rough) sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitCollie (Rough)Golden Retriever
Group
HerdingSporting
Size
LargeLarge
Origin
ScotlandScotland
Height (male)
24–26"23–24"
Height (female)
22–24"21.5–22.5"
Weight (male)
60–75 lbs65–75 lbs
Weight (female)
50–65 lbs55–65 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–14 years10–12 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
longmedium
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Collie (Rough)

The Collie (Rough) is a devoted, graceful, proud Scottish herder — Lassie, the world's most famous fictional dog. Originally from Scotland, this large herding breed typically weighs 60–75 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as devoted, graceful, proud.

About the Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever is a friendly, intelligent, devoted gundog — the all-American family dog with a golden coat. Originally from Scotland, this large sporting breed typically weighs 65–75 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, intelligent, devoted.

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Collie (Rough) health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Collie eye anomaly
  • MDR1 gene mutation
  • Hip dysplasia

Golden Retriever health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Cancer
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Heart disease
  • Skin conditions