The Collie exists in the minds of many as the epitome of canine character and devotion, largely thanks to the Hollywood phenomenon known as “Lassie”, portrayed in various productions by a Rough Collie. These attributes are not just inventions for the silver screen, however, for the Collie was developed to be a helper to humans and continues to be valued as a stock dog and companion today. Their exact history is unknown but they have been drovers, herding livestock to and from the market for farmers in England and Scotland, for centuries. Collies found popularity beyond their rural homelands in the 1860s when Queen Victoria visited the Scottish Highland and became enamored with the breed. Henceforth, Collies were considered quite fashionable. This breed possesses many qualities that yield a great family pet – intelligence, playfulness, affectionate personality – and tends to be very good with children. They are energetic and will need daily walks but are capable of serene household behavior. Their profuse coats will need brushing about once a week and occasional bathing but are otherwise fairly low-maintenance.
Each AKC approved purebred breed has its own national club. The mission of these “parent breed clubs” is to improve and preserve a particular breed by advancing knowledge about its history, its health and care requirements and by assuring that the breed’s form and function remain true to its historical physical type and character: A Dalmatian, for instance, should be athletic and have a natural affinity for working with horses. A Fox Terrier should have the right body size and shape, and a drive to go after vermin.
Pet owners, breeders, trainers, veterinarians, and others with a special love for a breed, join the parent breed club to meet like-minded enthusiasts and to support the club’s mission.
The national parent breed club is the first place for the public to go to learn about a breed or find a knowledgeable, experienced breeder.
Discover Animals is a web-based educational resource offered by the NAIA
