The purpose of this website is to provide sources of information about the history of the collie breeds (breeds that were developed from the old working collie of the British isles) in order to encourage preservation of important functional, physical, mental, behavioral and aesthetic characteristics for the future.
As you read collie/shepherd history, and look at old photos and prints, please keep in mind that the concept of "breed" and "type" have changed a great deal over time.
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"Many 19th-century American photos show dogs of the old working collie/shepherd type. Some people attempt to label the dogs with specific modern breed names, but this is not really accurate. The present-day breeds (of all the groups -- terriers, gundogs, whatever) did not become clearly defined until long after dogs shows began. Which strains came to be recognized breeds, and at what time, and even in what forms, had a lot to do with whether and when a group of people decided to take up the type as their breed. Contrary to popular belief, kennel club recognition provides no special claim to purity of historical background; about all that can be said is that at some point in time, written pedigrees began to be kept, type became more standardized, and studbooks were officially closed." from "Australian
Shepherd History" by Linda Rorem
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Where did they come from, and what will they become? Read historical articles and look into breed health and maintenance issues at The Once and Future Collie
Talk to others who have or are interested in farm collies and shepherds. Find out what other people think of as "farm collies" and "farm shepherds", and why. A diverse group with diverse ideas, there is disagreement on many points but mutual respect prevails on the farmcollie email list.
What is a farm collie?
What is an old farm collie?
Farm collie restoration efforts
CAUTION: If you have a clear idea about what you mean by "farm collie", that's great, but don't assume anyone else means the same thing: be prepared to explain your idea in detail.
Suggestions on how to find YOUR farm collie/shepherd.
There are literally thousands of rescue organizations that have collie-related dogs, purebreeds and mixed breeds, waiting for new homes. Anyone considering breeding their dog (perhaps because it is a great dog or perhaps they want to help conserve the breed) needs to look at this enormous problem and make sure their breeding will not simply add to it. Why do so many purebreds end up in need of rescue? How to improve this situation for the future? Here is a thoughtful and knowledgeable suggestion by the Collie Club of Alabama
A few groups are listed below but this is just the tip of the iceberg. Do a Google search and you will get thousands of hits.
Collie Club of America's collie rescue organization list : not all groups that rescue Collies are here, but it is a long list and a place to start. Google search "Collie Rescue" turns up hundreds of thousands of hits. Most of the collie rescue webpages I've checked recently say they are full and in desperate need of foster homes.
Hearts United For Animals Network
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Last updated 5 January 2006.
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