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Collie Dog Breed
Nobody knows for sure the exact
origins of the Collie dog breed, or even where its name came from. One
specific theory is that the Collie was derived from the same bloodline
as the Border Collie.
Another theory concerning the name “Collie” is that it comes from the
Gaelic word for “useful”, which definitely describes how useful these
dogs were for farmers and as stock dogs. They were considered to be of
high value to the the Celts when they first settled in the British
Isles.
The job of guarding and sheepherding by using dogs has been around
since the most ancient of times. Even so, there is only evidence of the
Collie's services of doing these jobs back towards the beginning of the
1800s. We know for sure that Collies did indeed exist during that time,
both the rough-coated and smooth-coated Collie dogs.
The smooth-coated Collies were used as drovers. The rough-coated Collie
dogs had the job of guarding the flock in all types of weather. In
time, the breed became increasingly popular and fanciers of the Collie
started to breed litters that grew to became more refined and taller in
size.
In the year of 1860, Queen Victoria became quite impressed by the
Collie and added her very first Collie dog to her collection. Having
the Queen fancy these dogs created quite a stir and many upper-class
families followed her lead and also took ownership of the Collie. By
the late 1800s, there was an official standard drawn up and this
description still holds true today.
During this same time period, sheepherding became more and more vital
in America and new settlers came to the New World with their own Collie
dogs. America's wealthy families also brought back Collies from their
travels throughout Europe.
Today, almost everybody is familiar with the famous television show
titled “Lassie”. Lassie became the most famous Collie dog of all time.
Needless to say, this TV series gave the breed a huge boost in
popularity which has made the Collie one of the most favorite of dog
breeds in America.
Personality: The Collie has a true hard-working heritage. They need to
be stimulated physically and mentally on a daily basis. Without an
active lifestyle these dogs can become frustrated. Collie dogs are
gentle and mild-mannered with just about every living creature it comes
across. But do not let this dog's overly friendly attitude fool you
when it comes to being a watchdog. In fact, the Collie is top-rated as
an excellent watchdog.
Taking Care Of Your Collie: As mentioned above, the Collie will need
daily stimulation and better yet, the opportunity to herd is possible.
Of course this activity is only ideal if you live on a farm or large
area of land with animals. Collie dogs can live outdoors when the
weather is cool, but they are most happywith its family that is much
better to have your Collie stay inside at night. Grooming requires a
good brushing once or twice per week, with the rough-coated Collie a
bit more often.
Health Information: The average lifespan of the Collie dog is
approximately 10 years, with healthy Collies living up to 12 to 13
years at times. There are no major health concerns to worry about and
minor issues that may spring up include demodicosis, PRA,
dermatomyositis, CEA, and gastric torsion. Seizures, CHD, and
microphthalmia are sometimes seen, but very rare.
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