“The system of breeding these dogs by shepherds has been altogether independent of consideration of
“The system of breeding these dogs by shepherds has been altogether independent of consideration of pedigree, which, no doubt, has given rise to the very considerable diversity of colour and coat which we find among true-bred Collies. Rough and smooth are mated, the result being pups of each kind and intermediate, the first consideration with the shepherd being to produce a useful and intelligent dog, that will take naturally to his work and be easily rendered amenable to discipline. With this view the sire selected is always one known to be clever, considerations of outward appearance being made greatly subservient to that. We would not however be understood to say that the Scotch shepherd is heedless of the good appearance of his dog; he has generally an eye for a ‘bonny dowg,’ and if he can add that Glen or Rover is ‘as guid as he’s bonny,’ depend upon it he is proud of his dog, and there is a friendship between them which money will not part.”from the Illustrated Book of the Dog, 1881 -- source link
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