History of the Collie

Collies have been around since the 1600s! Originally bred in Scotland, they were used to help herd animals such as sheep and cattle. Collies originally came from a variety of breeds that included the Shetland Sheepdog, Rough Collie, Border Collie, Lancashire Heeler, and others. 

It takes its name from the Gaelic word for useful, which is 'Colley'. This hard-working, brilliant breed of dog was originally used by shepherds to herd and guard their flocks in Scotland and England.

Collies have a long history associated with royalty. Queen Victoria owned several collies during her reign and was obsessed with the breed. She even inspired the creation of outfits specifically designed for collies during this period.

The popularity of the collie spread to America in the late 1800s where they became popular working dogs on farms as well as family pets.

Today’s modern Collies remain true to type but fortunately, most all diseases known to affect them have been eliminated through strict breeding protocols set forth by AKC Collie Clubs around the world ensuring healthier puppies being born today than ever seen before bred into future generations.

So while collies are still used on farms just like they were hundreds of years ago, many now also live comfortably indoors with human families as loving companions performing valuable tasks such as therapy work communication assistance, search and rescue, brilliant competitors across various sports ... plus some may still have a chance at joining royals!

Best Dog Food for Collies: A Tail-Wagging Review

Best Dog Food for Collies

Collies are known for their stunning looks and friendly nature, making them one of the most beloved dog breeds. As a Collie owner, you want to ensure your furry friend is getting the most nutritious meal possible.

In this comprehensive review of the best dog food brands for Collies, we'll explore the top food options that will keep your Collie's tail wagging with health and happiness.

Key Takeaways:

• Discover the best dog foods specifically suited for Collies.
• Understand the nutritional needs unique to Collies and how to meet them.
• Learn about the ingredients to look for in your dog food and those to avoid in Collie dog food.

Understanding Collie's Nutritional Needs

Collies are an active and intelligent breed, requiring a balanced diet rich in proteins, fats, and carbohydrates to maintain their energy levels. They also need a good mix of vitamins and minerals to support their immune system and coat health.

When selecting dog food for your Collie, it's essential to look for high-quality sources of protein like chicken, lamb, or fish, and to ensure that the dog food contains the right balance of nutrients for your dog's age and activity level.

The Importance of High-Quality Ingredients

The quality of ingredients in your Collie's dog food can significantly impact their overall health. When we were looking at the top dog food brands we were interested in hole meats, wholesome grains, or grain-free options, and a variety of fruits and vegetables should be at the top of the ingredient list.

Avoid dog foods with fillers, artificial preservatives, and colorings, as these can be harmful to your dog's health. Instead, opt for natural preservatives like tocopherols (vitamin E) and look for dog foods that are free from by-products and unnamed meat sources.

Top Picks for Adult Collies

When it comes to adult Collies, their diet should be focused on maintaining their health and vitality. Look for dog food brands that offer a balanced blend of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates.

Brands that offer high-protein formulas that cater to the needs of active breeds like Collies. These dog foods often include a variety of fresh and raw meats, which provide the essential nutrients your Collie needs.

Taste of the Wilde

Why We Love It

Our first recommendation of high-quality dog food that your Collie will love is Taste of the Wild. This dog food has real meat as the #1 ingredient, making it perfect for Collie because they need lots of protein from Lamb meal and Chicken meal to support their bones and muscles. And with 32% protein, this dog food has everything your dog needs to thrive.

What You Should Know

When it comes to getting the best dog food for your Collies, you want to make sure they're getting the best possible nutrition.

Real meat should be the #1 ingredient in their dog food, as it's packed with protein that helps support bones, joints, and lean, strong muscles, the Lamb and Chicken meal in this recipe, provides that protein.

The dog food should also be nutrient-rich, providing the energy your Collie needs to thrive. You want to look for dog foods that contain vitamins and minerals from fruits and superfoods, as well as omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat.

With so many options on the market, it can be hard to know which is the best dog food for Collie. By looking for dog food that meets these nutritional requirements, you can be sure you're giving them the best chance to lead a long and healthy life.  This is why Taste of the Wild is on our list of the best dog food for Collies.

ORIJEN Original Recipe 

Why We Love It

As a Collie owner, you want to give your four-legged friend as good of a nutritional diet as possible – which is why you should look at ORIJEN. This premium dog food delivers a diet that is rich and varied in fresh, whole-animal ingredients.

 Fresh regional ingredients are supplied by people who are locally known, that are trusted and delivered to their kitchens fresh or raw. So, think about choosing ORIJEN today and giving your dog nutritious dog food!

What you should know

ORIJEN, believes that dogs should eat a diet that is rich in high-protein and good-quality meats. That's why their original dog food is made with 85% high-quality animal ingredients, including free-range chicken and turkey, wild-caught fish, and cage-free eggs.

They get fresh regional ingredients that are supplied by people they know and trust and are delivered to their kitchen fresh or raw, in their most natural and nourishing form.

As a result, ORIJEN is the biologically appropriate, grain-free dog food that Collies have evolved to eat. So, if you're looking for healthy and nutritious dog food ORIJEN is one of the best dog foods for Collies.

Acana High Protein Adult Dry Dog Food

Why We Love It

Acana High Protein Adult Dry Dog Food is perfect for your Collies because Collies need a high-protein diet. This dog food is made with ranch-raised beef, Yorkshire pork, and grass-fed lamb. The wholesome oats, sorghum, millet, and ground miscanthus grass make it a nutrient-dense addition to your dog's diet which is why we think this is one of the best dog foods for Collies.

What You Should Know

ACANA, believes that your Collie should eat as nature intended. That's why our Red Meat plus Wholesome Grains dog food is packed with protein from ranch-raised beef, Yorkshire pork, and grass-fed lamb.

They've also included wholesome oats, sorghum, millet, and ground miscanthus grass to give your Collie the fiber and nutrients they need to thrive.

Their proprietary vitamin pack is a unique blend of B vitamins, E vitamins, taurine, and choline, promoting the proper function of nervous and circulatory systems to ensure peak functionality.

And because they are committed to using only the highest quality ingredients, you can be sure that this dog food is free of legumes, potatoes, or gluten. You can give your dog the nutrition they need to thrive with ACANA Red Meat plus Wholesome Grains Dog Food a great dog food for your dog’s diet.

 ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food

Why We Love It

ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food is made with only the best ingredients, including high protein and a 10% superfood boost. Plus, it's grain-free and low-carb, so it's perfect for dogs of all life stages.

And because it's air-dried, it retains all the nutrients and flavors your dog needs to stay healthy and happy. There are no cheap fillers that are linked to dog food allergies in dogs.

So why not give ZIWI Peak a try?

What You Should Know

High protein, authentic whole-prey ratios featuring 96% free-range beef, organs, bone, and New Zealand green mussels. This premium dog food is safely air-dried and delivers peak nutrition and a mouth-watering taste for the pickiest dogs.

 The limited ingredient (L.I.D) recipe is ideal for food-sensitive dogs and does not include cheap fillers such as grain, potato, or peas which are linked to obesity, food allergies, and other health concerns.

Cold-washed green tripe, New Zealand green mussels, and organic kelp are holistic ingredients that support digestion, healthy skin and coat, joint health, reduce inflammation and promote heart and brain health.

 This dog food is perfect as a topper for a nutrition and flavor boost or as a complete meal for peak nutrition and health; it is optimized for puppies to senior dogs and it's one of the best dog food for Collies.

Merrick Grain Free with Real Meat + Sweet Potato Dry Dog Food

Why We Love It

Merrick Grain Free with Real Meat + Sweet Potato Dry Dog Food will help keep your Collie with a healthy and increase their energy. So, you should consider salmon-based dog food. Salmon is a high-protein, low-fat fish that is packed with nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for a healthy coat and skin.

Salmon is also a great source of lean protein, which is important for maintaining muscle mass. And since salmon is grain-free, it is also an excellent choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs. So, if you're looking for healthy and natural dog food, salmon-based dog food is definitely worth considering.

What You Should Know

This salmon dog food is crafted as a chicken-free dog food with no poultry ingredients. Real deboned salmon is always the first ingredient, and the food contains 60% protein and healthy fat ingredients along with 40% produce, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and other natural ingredients.

Over two-thirds of the protein comes from animal sources, making this a high-protein dog food. The dog food also includes omega fatty acids to support healthy skin and shiny coat, plus glucosamine and chondroitin for dogs to help maintain healthy hips and joints. Making this one of the best dog food for Collies.

Instinct Raw Boost Grain Free Dry Dog Food

Why We Love It

Instinct Raw Boost is a grain-free dog food option that is packed with nutrients and is made with raw cage-free chicken as the first ingredient. So, it is a high-protein dog food that also provides added ingredients for healthy nutrition for your Collie.

Plus, it's rich in omega fatty acids to promote a healthy coat and skin, and probiotics to support healthy digestion. Whether your dog has sensitivities or you're just looking for a high-quality dog food option, Instinct Raw Boost is a great choice!

What You Should Know.

Instinct Raw Boost is a grain-free dry dog food that combines high-protein kibble with all-natural bites of freeze-dried raw cage-free chicken as the #1 ingredient, this dog food also includes probiotics to support healthy digestion, omega fatty acids for skin and coat health, and has no potato, corn, wheat, soy, by-product meal, artificial colors, or preservatives.

Raw Boost is a complete and balanced nutrition for your Collie and is made in the USA with the finest ingredients from around the world. Therefore Instinct is on our list of best dog food for Collies.

Best Choices for Collie Puppies

The dog food should also be nutrient-rich, providing the energy your Collie needs to thrive. You want to look for dog foods that contain vitamins and minerals from fruits and superfoods, as well as omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat.

With so many options on the market, it can be hard to know which dog food is best for Collie. By looking for dog foods that meet these nutritional requirements, you can be sure you're giving them the best chance to lead a long and healthy life. 

This is why Taste of the Wild is on our list of the best dog food for Collies. Best Choices for Collie Puppies

Collie puppies have different nutritional requirements than adults. They need dog food that supports their rapid growth and development. Puppy formulas should be rich in DHA for brain development, calcium, and phosphorus for bone growth, and have a higher calorie content to fuel their energy.

ORIJEN Puppy Dry Dog Food for Large Breeds

Why We Love It

Your new puppy deserves the best, and that’s what you’ll get with Orijen Puppy Dry Dog Food. Orijen Puppy is made with fresh regional ingredients so your little Collie can grow up healthy and strong.

Plus, it contains probiotics to support digestion – something all puppies need as they transition to adult food. With this food, your puppy will have everything they need to thrive.

And because it comes in a large breed formula, you can be sure they’ll stay healthy into adulthood. Choose Orijen Puppy Dry Dog Food for Large Breeds and give your new Collie the best start in life.

What You Should Know

As any dog owner knows, finding the right food for your Collie puppy can be a challenge. If you have a Collie puppy, you want to make sure they are getting all the nutrients they need in its food to grow and thrive.

That's why Orijen Puppy Dry Dog Food for Large Breeds has created this special formula, with 90% quality poultry and fish ingredients to support muscle development and maintenance.

The first five ingredients are always fresh or raw animal protein, for a diet that is rich in the nutrients your puppy needs. The formula also includes DHA and EPA from mackerel, herring, salmon, and pollock oil to help support skin and coat health and healthy immune system.

So, you can rest assured that your Collie puppy is getting everything they need to grow up healthy and strong.

Optimal Foods for Senior Collies

As Collies age, their metabolism slows down, and they may become less active. Senior dog foods are designed to support joint health, maintain a healthy weight, and ensure proper digestion. Look for foods with glucosamine and chondroitin for joint support and a lower calorie count to prevent weight gain.

ORIJEN Senior Dry Dog Food

Why We Like It

ORIJEN dog food recipe contains 85 percent animal ingredients, with a focus on free-run chicken, free-run turkey and wild-caught fish to support a healthy weight.

The first five ingredients include fresh or raw chicken, turkey, salmon, whole herring and chicken liver. These ingredients provide your dog with a strong source of protein, vitamins and minerals.

Inspired by what your dog's ancestors consumed in the wild, each serving includes ORIJEN WholePrey ingredients to give your pup the most succulent and nutrient-rich parts of the prey.

The freeze-dried coating satisfies your dog's instinctive craving for flavor. Fresh ingredients are refrigerated and our raw ingredients are frozen so that you can rest assured that your canine companion is getting only the best.

What You Should Know

As our lovable companions age, their nutritional needs evolve with them. That's why selecting the best dog food for Collies is crucial in maintaining their health and happiness in their senior years. With their active nature and large size, Collies have specific requirements that must be met to support their well-being.

Finding the right food that is packed with protein, and vitamins, and low in calories is paramount. The right nutrition can help your furry friend continue to live their best life, even as they age. We have researched what other Collies think and this is the own recommended the most.

Foods for Collies with Sensitive Stomachs

Collies with sensitive stomachs require dog foods that are easy to digest and contain limited ingredients to reduce the risk of food sensitivities. Look for foods with a single protein source and easily digestible carbohydrates.

Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets and Royal Canin Veterinary Diet are formulated to be gentle on your Collie's stomach while providing all the necessary nutrients.

Blue Buffalo Basic Skin & Stomach Care

Why We Like It

Feeding your Collie, a diet that is both nutritious and gentle on their digestion can be hard. Many dog foods are filled with grains and gluten which can lead to digestive problems.

 Blue Buffalo Basic Skin & Stomach Care Grain Free, Natural Adult Lage Breed Dry Dog Food is designed specifically for large breed dogs and contains only real lamb as the primary source of protein.

This food also features potatoes, peas, and pumpkin to support gentle digestion without gluten in many other grain-based dog foods.

What you should know

Blue Buffalo Basic Skin & Stomach Care is a holistic food for dogs. It is a grain-free food that is specially formulated for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

Blue Buffalo Basic Skin & Stomach Care doesn't contain any chicken, beef, corn, wheat, soy, dairy, or eggs, making it a good option for dogs with sensitivities to these ingredients.

In addition, Blue Basics is formulated with glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health. A precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals is carefully selected by holistic veterinarians and animal nutritionists to support immune system health, life stage needs, and a healthy oxidative balance.

With all these features, Blue Buffalo Basic Skin & Stomach Care is an excellent food choice for your Huskey with sensitivities or other special dietary needs.

Best Wet Dog Food for Collies

Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein, Natural Adult Wet Food

Why we love it

Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein Natural Adult Wet Dog Food Formula makes it easy to provide your Collie with the best of nutrition.

With premium ingredients that support physical performance, antioxidants, hip & joint, and heart health, Blue Buffalo is packed with real duck and chicken, fruits and vegetables, vitamins, and minerals for delicious dog food.

Specifically formulated for health and well-being, Blue Buffalo’s provides your adult dog with plenty of protein from real duck and chicken to help supply energy while promoting healthy muscle growth making this a great wet food.

What you should know 

A lot of dog foods are packed with fillers like corn, wheat, and soy which can be hard for dogs to digest. Not only are these fillers difficult for dogs to digest, but they can also be the cause of many common food allergies.

Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein Wet Dog Food is made with only the finest natural ingredients enhanced with vitamins and minerals.

It contains no chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, NO corn, wheat, or soy, and NO artificial flavors or preservatives. This makes it a great dog food for your Collie.

Multifunctional Supplements for Dogs

While well-balanced dog food should provide most of the nutrients your Collie needs, some may benefit from additional supplements.

Fish oil supplements can support coat and skin health, while probiotics can aid in digestion. Always consult with your veterinarian before adding supplements to your Collie's diet to ensure they are necessary and appropriate for your dog.

Zesty Paws 8 in 1 Bites

Why we like it

These functional supplement chews provide your Collie with all the essential nutrients they need in delicious tasting treats made with premium ingredients that support physical performance, antioxidants, hip & joint, heart, immune, skin, liver, and gut health.

Plus, these chews contain no grain, corn, or soy derivatives so you know you're providing your dog with only the best! Made for dogs of all ages, breeds, and sizes

What you should know

It's hard to keep your pet healthy when you're always on the go. Between work, errands, and social obligations, it can be tough to find time to fit in a trip to the vet. And even if you do have time, it can be expensive. Zesty Paws 8-in-1 Bites are multifunctional supplements designed with your pet's health in mind.

 The premium ingredients include Cod Liver Fish Oil and Vitamin E for skin and coat health, Kaneka Q10 to help reduce oxidative stress, MSM for muscular support, Glucosamine HCl and Chondroitin Sulfate for hip and joint support, a five-strain Probiotic Blend (500 million CFU per chew).

 Digestive Enzymes, and Niacin to promote healthy digestion and gut flora. Plus, Zesty Paws bites contain Heart Health antioxidants like Kaneka Q10, a premium CoQ10, Cod Liver Oil, and Vitamins A, C, & E to promote healthy cardiovascular function and liver health.

Reading Dog Food Labels for Collies

Understanding dog food labels is crucial when choosing the best food for your Collie. The ingredient list should have a high-quality protein source as the first ingredient, and it should be specific (e.g., "chicken" rather than "poultry").

The guaranteed analysis will give you information on the minimum percentages of protein and fat, as well as the maximum percentages of fiber and moisture.

FAQ Section

Q: How often should I feed my Collie? 

A: Adult Collies typically do well with two meals per day. Puppies may require more frequent feedings, usually three to four times daily. Adjust the feeding schedule based on your dog's age, activity level, and specific health needs.

Q: Can Collies eat a vegetarian diet? 

A: While dogs can survive on a vegetarian diet, it is not ideal for Collies or any other breed. Dogs are omnivores and thrive on a diet that includes high-quality animal proteins. If you're considering a vegetarian diet for health or ethical reasons, consult with a veterinary nutritionist to ensure your Collie's nutritional needs are met.

Q: How do I transition my Collie to a new dog food? 

A: Transition your Collie to new food gradually over the course of 7-10 days. Start by mixing a small amount of the new food with the old, gradually increasing the
proportion of new food while decreasing the old food. This helps prevent
digestive upset and allows your dog to adjust to the new diet.

Q: Is Collie a good family dog?

A: Absolutely! Collies are one of the most popular breeds of dogs for families due to their loyalty, intelligence, and gentle nature. They are ideal guard dogs that will alert you of any intruders or threats while also being trustworthy with children and other family members.

Collies have been around for centuries and were originally developed as a herding breed in Scotland. This means that collies have an innate ability to instinctively protect their surroundings, making them great watchdogs for your home.

They’re also highly trainable which makes it easy to teach basic obedience commands such as sit, stay, come, heel, etc., resulting in an obedient pet that can be trusted off-leash when taken on walks in public places like parks or playgrounds.

Q: Are Collies calm dogs?

A: Absolutely! Collies are one of the most laid-back and calm dog breeds out there. You only need to take a look at Lassie and her iconic gentle nature to get an idea of what Collies are like - they truly embody the term "man's best friend."

Collies make wonderful family companions, as their calm demeanor allows them to be incredibly patient and loving with children. They're also incredibly smart, making them easy to train and socialize with other animals (and humans). Not only that, but they also exude a sense of loyalty, unlike many other types of dogs.

If you're looking for a four-legged friend who can put up with your busy lifestyle without too much fuss or trouble, then consider bringing home a Collie - you won't regret it!

Q: Are collie dogs friendly?

A: Absolutely! Collies are incredibly friendly dogs that love being around people and spending quality time with their owners. They are great family pets as they have a loyal and loving personality, and they love to play simple games like fetch or tug-of-war.

What's even more impressive is that these dogs were bred to herd sheep, meaning they have an instinctive sense of loyalty that is unmatched by any other breed.

As such, collies will stay close to their families and exhibit an almost protective nature. Despite this strong herding instinct, they still make for excellent companions in both urban and rural settings alike.

Q: Are Collies healthy dogs?

A: Yes, Collies are generally healthy dogs! They have a lifespan of 10 to 14 years and can live a longer life with proper care. As they are working farm dogs, they need a moderate amount of exercise and activity in order to stay fit.

Collies have a strong tendency towards skin issues and allergies due to their heavy double coat which means that regular grooming is important for them. It also helps keep their long coats from matting up.

They also tend to be prone to eye problems like progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) as well as other genetic conditions such as hip dysplasia so it's important that you find a responsible breeder who does health testing before breeding the litter.

Overall, if fed properly and provided with enough physical and mental stimulation, these lovable pups can be quite healthy. So if you're looking for an active canine friend that loves spending time outdoors – then the Collie just may be the perfect fit for your family!

Q: Are Collie's high maintenance?

A: Collies are not necessarily high maintenance, depending on the individual and their specific needs. However, they are a herding breed that tends to require more exercise and mental stimulation than other breeds.

While some may be content with an hour or two of outdoor activity each day, others may need four or five hours to keep them healthy.

In terms of grooming, the same goes - some Collies will require moderate grooming while others may be fine only getting brushed once every couple of weeks.

In general, you can expect regular brushing (once per week), trimming their nails as needed, cleaning their ears regularly, and brushing out mats in their fur from time to time (unless you opt for professional grooming). Some owners swear by daily brushings to maintain coats in good condition!

Summary

Choosing the best dog food for your Collie involves understanding their unique nutritional needs and selecting a food that uses high-quality ingredients.

Whether you have an adult, puppy, or senior Collie, or one with specific dietary requirements, there are excellent options available to keep your dog healthy and happy. Remember to consult with your veterinarian when making changes to your Collie's diet and consider supplements if needed.

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