Collie

While the exact origins of the Collie dog breed is unknown, including where its name came fromm there are several popular theories. It is widely believed that the Collie breed started from the same bloodline as the Border Collie. The name "Collie" may have come from the Gaelic word for “useful”, or from "Colley", a black faced sheep the ancient Scots used to raise. "Useful" definitely describes the Collie for its service to the farmers and as a stock dog.

In 1860, Queen Victoria was so impressed by the Collie that she added her very first Collie dog to her collection. Once the Queen had one, 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.

The Collie needs 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 they come across, but don't let that fool you when it comes to the Collies abilities as a watchdog. In fact, the Collie is top-rated as an excellent watchdog.

Read more about the Collie.