Size
Collies are generally medium-sized dogs that weigh between 25 and 75 pounds. They are somewhat lightly built with a pointed snout and erect or partly erect ears. Collie bred for working cattle tend to be stockier than those bred to be pets. Collies are always alert and are active and agile.
Coat and Color
Collies' fur may be short, flat, or long, while the tail may be smooth, feathered, or bushy. Some types were traditionally had docked tails, and some are naturally bobtailed or tail-less.
Collies vary in coloration, with the usual base colors being black, black-and-tan, red, red-and-tan, or sable. The most common patterns are black and white or tricolor. Many have white along with the main color, usually under the belly and chest, over the shoulders, and on parts of the face and legs. White may also be absent or limited to the chest and toes (as in the Australian Kelpie).