Collie Puppies

Since the Collie is considered to be the most intelligent breed, well-bred Collie puppies are very easy to train. Intelligence in this breed means independent thinking, desire to work, and reasoning ability. Collies are known for their ability to learn new commands with only a few repetitions. On the other hand, their intelligence may be a problem, because in the wrong hands, a Collie puppy learns things that the owner didn’t intend for it to learn. Intelligent dogs tend to get bored with dull repetitive exercises. They need much food for thought and positive motivation, but not drill. A Collie needs an owner who is ready to devote much time to the dog.

People buy purebred Collie puppies for various purposes. This breed is one of the few that are still used for their original purpose – herding sheep. Though herding instinct is very strong in this breed, Collies need special training to work with cattle. Collies are also good at agility, obedience, conformation, Schutzhund, and other dog sports. This breed can be trained to detect drugs and bombs. Collies can also be used as therapy or guide dogs for the disabled and hearing dogs for hearing impaired people. To perform these tasks, Collie dogs need special training. Actually, to become a reliable and obedient family companion, a Collie also needs training and much attention.

Collie puppies may seem very quiet, but adult Collies are very busy and active. They tend to get bored when kept indoors or in a small yard. When bored, Collies develop bad habits, such as chewing and digging. These intelligent and curious dogs need a task to do when they are not playing or having lessons. They can perform a role of a watchdog or a guard dog.

This breed is not recommended for apartment living, because it’s very active and sheds much. The Collie should never be chained in the backyard. The life expectancy for a healthy Collie is 12-15 years. Some bloodlines are prone to hereditary disorders, such as Collie eye anomaly, hip dysplasia, deafness, epilepsy, and PRA. Purebred Collie puppies produced by responsible breeders are normally free from typical health disorders.