The Farm Collie is not a specific dog breed in itself, it is a type of herding and droving dog and, by definition, it can refer to any collie-like type of dog living on a farm, with a wide variety of looks ranging from those of an Old-Time Scotch Collie and Border Collie, used as working dogs on a farm, an Australian Shepherd and English Shepherd, to a Rough Collie. This pastoral dog is a valuable helper on the premises of any farm or ranch because it is a multi-purpose farm dog. The main traits of this type of farm dog are derived from the Scotch Collie, but the term covers a diversity of breeds and a range of crossbred dogs. Any collie-like type of dog with good working instincts would fit this profile. A key part on any American farm until the 1950's, fortunately, this farm dog becomes equally popular nowadays.
The Farm Collie possesses herding instincts and a confident and trustworthy character, which allows it to move freely among the livestock on the farm and treat its pack with respect. The farm dog's motivation comes from the desire to help its owner, and this dog-farmer relationship is based on mutual trust. This versatile dog can be used as a guard dog, a herding dog, a hunting dog, a watchdog and pest control dog a farmer's BFF.
Training is important in order to bring out the best working qualities of this extremely useful and reliable farm dog. It needs to be left loose on the farm so as to perform its rightful duties to the fullest. Most farm dogs are descendents of the Old Scotch Collie and display their specific characteristics, loyal behavior and energetic temperament. Its pack is essential to any farm dog, and a proper hierarchy should be established for an excellent human-dog relationship. This agile and alert, yet gentle dog lives for assisting its owner in taking good care of all the daily activities on the farm, like guarding the property, herding, gathering the chicken, plus offering plenty of affection to its family at the end of the day.
These collie-type farm dogs also make great pets, especially for children, because they are mellow when it comes to children and also cheerful, playful and very friendly. They can also be kept in apartments as long as they are walked properly, because they need a lot of exercise.
The double long coat can be either smooth or rough and it comes in a large range of colors, mostly light blonde, sable, reddish-brown and black and white. Blue merle collies are tricolor or black-andwhite, with gray-blue body patches. Brushing the coat every one or two weeks is enough, and no professional grooming is required. They shed moderately, mostly in the summer.
Farm collies get along just fine with other dogs and even cats. They are highly intelligent and easy to train, very family-oriented and affectionate. Family members and all livestock are perceived as their pack that needs protection, and they take their job as guardians, hunters and herders very seriously. When they are not at work, they are devoted companions and excellent playmates to children, whom they adore. They can adapt to any climate and environment.
If you are looking for a first rate helper to aid with the daily chores on the farm while being a dedicated, loyal and affectionate companion, then, for your own sake, help yourself by adopting a Farm Collie, the multi-purpose working dog with plenty of TLC to offer.
