Scottish Shepherd - the history of the formation of the breed

2024 Author: Priscilla Miln | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-16 00:21

The Indians of California believe that their god created everything that exists on earth and in space, only he did not have to create a dog - it has always existed.

It is easy to agree with this, because there are scientific confirmations of the coexistence of a dog and a man about 12 thousand years ago. The Scottish Shepherd is undoubtedly a worthy and magnificent representative of his fellows. There is no consensus regarding the origin of the breed. One hypothesis suggests that the ancestors of modern collies were brought to Scotland from Iceland around the 17th century. Another version claims that Scottish Shepherds are descendants of an ancient Celtic breed. It is also speculated that collies could have reached the north of Europe with the Roman legions. But it is reliably known that the Scottish Sheepdog - collie - owes its name to the Scottish breed of sheep - colley - which she grazed in her time.

Formation of the breed

It seems incredible that suchbeautiful dogs were almost unknown outside of Scotland until the middle of the 19th century. It is believed that this elegant dog, with a proud bearing and an intelligent look, was subdued by Queen Victoria during her trip to Scotland. Since then, the Scottish Shepherd has become an indispensable participant in all known exhibitions.

Serious selection work has begun to improve the exterior qualities of the breed. Collies acquired the luxurious appearance familiar to us only by the end of the 19th century. Dogs began to be divided into long-haired, short-haired and short-tailed. The first breed standard was approved in 1891. The final version is in the 60s of the last century. Collies were brought to Russia under Nicholas II. This dignified dog has a flexible, strong body, a long narrow head, expressive almond-shaped eyes. But the main decoration and distinctive property is, of course, wool. Long, thick or short, with an undercoat, she is always gorgeous, whether merle, sable, blue or white.

Character

Despite its noble and proud appearance, one of the most temperamental and playful large dogs is the Scottish Sheepdog. A photo of a collie frolicking with a child or playing with the owner can be a decoration for any family album. These animals treat children not only carefully, but reverently. Sensitively react to the mood of the owner. Excellent guards, guides, lifeguards. Tolerant of other animals living in the house.

Loyal, friendly, smart, accommodating in training (provided that they are interested and sensitively monitor the mood). With improper training, they can show stubbornness, laziness, nervousness, sometimes mistaken for aggression. They like to “talk” with the owner, barking loudly and for a long time, which is not always pleasant for others. With constant contact with a person, the Scottish Shepherd can develop its natural mind to such an extent that it becomes capable of independent action. James Douglas, a Scottish commander, said that a dog is the best thing a person has, and if people could love as faithfully as dogs, the world would become a paradise. The Scottish Sheepdog, royally proud, but infinitely loyal and devoted, is the best confirmation of these words.