Collie Breeders

The first Collie breeders bred these dogs for work and emphasized intelligence and working abilities on the breed. It resulted in creating one of the most intelligent and trainable dog breeds in the world. The Collie was not known outside Scotland till the end of the 19th century when first Collies were shown in conformation shows. Today, the working and show lines of the breed separated by adding the Borzoi to the show lines in order to enhance the refined beauty of the dogs. As a result, working lines are smaller and stockier than show lines. The Rough Collie is popular as a family or show dog while the Smooth variety is still a working and sport dog.

Today, Collie breeders work with either working, or show lines of the breed. Collies of the show lines make good family companions. They are praised for their intelligence, trainability, versatility, loyalty, and protectiveness. Gentle nature and tolerance to children make Collies one of the most reliable breeds. Even small children and pets can be trusted with these dogs that treat them as flock and become very protective of them.

Collies are people dogs; they need lots of communication with the family. A typical Collie is outgoing, communicative, energetic, and playful. Shy and nervous dogs are not typical of this breed, but a Collie can be reserved with strangers. Collies do well in all dog sports and activities: agility, conformation, obedience, flyball, draft work, field trials, and others. Some Collies can be trained to perform search and rescue work. After special training, Collies can become efficient therapy or guide dogs. Collie breeders usually select the breeding stock for a specific purpose. If you plan to show your Collie or use it for a special task, find a breeder who specializes at producing such dogs.

The Collie can be kept indoors if it’s sufficiently exercised outdoors. Very smart and communicative, these dogs enjoy long walks on a leash, seeing new places and meeting new people. It’s not the right dog to keep in a chain in the backyard, though the Collie is able to serve as a watchdog. Rough Collies are sensitive to heat and should be provided with a shelter. Generally healthy, some purebred Collies are prone to hereditary disorders. Responsible Collie breeders try to eliminate genetic issues by selective breeding.