The Rough Collie shares it origins with the Smooth Collie in the working sheepdogs of Scotland. The earliest Collies were smaller than today's dogs and largely black/white or tricolour or black/tan. The first sable, Old Lockie, born in 1868 caused a sensation and from that time the sable/white become the most popular colour. However, the tricolour and the blue merle are still very much evident in the breed.

It was not until 1870 that there were separate classes for “Sheepdogs Rough” and “Sheepdogs Smooth”. The founder of the Kennel Club Mr S.E. Shirley promoted the Rough Collie and Queen Victoria brought some from Balmoral to her Royal Estates including Windsor Castle.

The Collie Association is a Nationwide Breed Club dedicated to the promotion of the Rough Collie, with Committee members, Officers or Representatives throughout the United Kingdom.

It aims to achieve its objectives by:
Promoting the breeding and exhibition of pedigree Rough Collies
Giving help and encouragement to novice and hobby breeders
To do all possible to further the progress and health of the breed as a whole