Updated · Published by Radif Partners
Collie Weight & Growth Chart
Complete weight guide with growth charts for male and female Collies from puppy to adult.
The Collie belongs to the Herding group and originates from Scotland. Adults typically weigh between 50 and 75 pounds, standing 22 to 26 inches at the shoulder. Life expectancy runs from 12 to 14 years, and the figures on this page describe that range rather than a single average, because the spread is what matters when you are deciding. Running costs settle around $191 a month once the dog is past puppyhood, before insurance and before anything unexpected. These numbers come from published breed standards and, where a standard is silent, from longevity and veterinary studies; they describe the breed as a population and not the dog in front of you. Line, upbringing, early socialisation and simple chance move an individual well away from the typical profile, and two dogs of the same breed often differ more than two dogs of different breeds. Nothing here is a diagnosis: for a specific animal, a veterinary surgeon who has examined it will always know more than a table.
Collie Weight Overview
The Collie weighs 50–75 lbs at maturity. Males (50–75 lbs) are typically heavier than females (42–66 lbs).
Males weigh 60 to 75 pounds, females 50 to 65 pounds. They should appear elegant and well-proportioned. The abundant coat of the Rough variety can make them appear larger than they actually are.. The growth chart below shows the typical weight progression from puppyhood to adulthood.
Collie Growth Chart
When Does a Collie Stop Growing?
Expect your Collie to reach adult height of 22–26 inches by 15–24 months. Full body maturity, including muscle development toward the 50–75 lb target, may continue until 18–30 months.
Growth is influenced by genetics, nutrition quality, and spay/neuter timing. Collie Eye Anomaly and MDR1 drug sensitivity are the hallmark health concerns. All breeding stock should be genetically tested. Dermatomyositis is another breed-specific condition to watch for..
Collie Male vs Female Size Differences
Male and female Collies differ noticeably in size, a pattern common in large breeds. Males typically weigh 50–75 lbs, while females weigh 42–66 lbs. Both sexes stand 22–26 inches tall at the shoulder, though males tend to fall at the upper end of this range.
These size differences can influence practical ownership decisions. Larger males require more food, larger crate sizes, and stronger leash handling. Female Collies at the lower weight range may be easier to manage physically for smaller handlers or families with children. Both sexes share the same temperament and health profile, so size preference should be a practical decision rather than a temperament-based one.
Is My Collie Overweight?
Is your Collie at a healthy weight? The ideal range is 50–75 lbs (males 50–75, females 42–66). Check these three signs:
- Ribs: Easily felt with light pressure; not visible but not buried under fat
- Waistline: A clear narrowing behind the ribs when viewed from above
- Abdominal tuck: The belly slopes upward from the ribcage to the hind legs when viewed from the side
If your dog fails any of these checks, consult your vet. Collie Eye Anomaly and MDR1 drug sensitivity are the hallmark health concerns. All breeding stock should be genetically tested. Dermatomyositis is another breed-specific condition to watch for..
Collie Weight Management Tips
Maintaining your Collie at a healthy weight between 50 and 75 lbs is one of the most impactful things you can do for their long-term health. Studies consistently show that lean dogs live an average of 1.8–2.5 years longer than overweight dogs of the same breed.
Portion control: Use a measuring cup for every meal rather than estimating. Feed the amount recommended for your Collie's ideal weight, not their current weight if they are overweight. Divide daily food into two meals for adults and three meals for puppies under six months.
Treat management: Treats should not exceed 10% of daily caloric intake. Use small, low-calorie training treats and consider using pieces of your dog's regular kibble as rewards during training sessions. Avoid table scraps entirely, as they add unpredictable calories and can introduce foods that are toxic to dogs.
Exercise alignment: With an exercise needs rating of 3/5, the Collie requires moderate daily exercise. Balance food intake with activity level, adjusting portions during periods of reduced activity such as recovery from illness or injury.
Regular weigh-ins: Weigh your Collie monthly and track the trend. Gradual weight gain of even one to two pounds per month can lead to significant obesity over time. Your veterinarian can establish your dog's ideal weight during wellness visits and recommend caloric adjustments as needed.
Feeding Recommendation
Plan on 0.8–1.5 cups of premium dry food daily for your adult Collie, divided into morning and evening meals. Given this herding breed's predisposition to Collie Eye Anomaly, discuss dietary approaches that may help manage this risk with your vet. Males weigh 60 to 75 pounds, females 50 to 65 pounds. They should appear elegant and well-proportioned. The abundant coat of the Rough variety can make them appear larger than they actually are..
Collie Weight by Age Table
The following table shows expected weight ranges for male and female Collies at key developmental milestones. Individual dogs may fall slightly outside these ranges depending on genetics, nutrition, and activity level. Consult your veterinarian if your Collie's weight deviates significantly from these benchmarks.
| Age | Male (lbs) | Female (lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| 3 months | 13.6–16.4 | 11.5–14.0 |
| 6 months | 30.5–37.0 | 25.9–31.5 |
| 9 months | 44.1–53.4 | 37.4–45.5 |
| 12 months | 54.3–65.7 | 46.0–55.9 |
| 18 months | 64.5–78.0 | 54.7–66.4 |
| 24 months | 67.9–82.1 | 57.6–69.9 |
Health Risks of Incorrect Weight in Collies
Both underweight and overweight conditions pose serious health risks for the Collie. Understanding these risks reinforces the importance of maintaining your dog within the 50–75 lb target range.
Overweight risks: Excess weight places additional strain on joints, increasing the risk and severity of conditions like Collie Eye Anomaly. Overweight Collies also face higher rates of diabetes, heart disease, respiratory compromise, heat intolerance, and reduced lifespan. Even moderate excess weight, just 10–15% above ideal, shortens life expectancy and reduces quality of life.
Underweight risks: A Collie consistently below 50 lbs may be experiencing inadequate nutrition, parasitic infection, dental problems that prevent eating, or underlying illness. Underweight dogs have weakened immune systems, poor coat quality, reduced energy, and slower healing. If your Collie appears thin despite normal feeding, veterinary examination is essential to rule out medical causes.
Frequently Asked Questions
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