Scotch Collie puppies are intelligent and friendly companions, known for their loyalty and affection towards their families. They are highly trainable, which makes them a great choice for first-time dog owners.
These puppies are naturally curious and love to explore their surroundings, making them perfect for families with children who enjoy playing and interacting with their pets.
Their high intelligence also means they require regular mental and physical stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.
Puppies
Finding a Scotch Collie puppy can be challenging because they're less widely available than other breeds. You can find a breeder through the Old-Time Scotch Collie Association's list of breeders and puppy waiting list.
Scotch Collie puppies are loving and intelligent dogs that are easily trainable, making them amazing family pets. They require patience and dedication from their owners, especially during the first two years of their life.
Here are some resources to find good Scotch Collie puppies:
- List of registered Old-Time Scotch Collie litters
- Old-Time Scotch Collie Association breeders map
- Scotch Collie Puppy waiting list
Scotch Collie puppies go through a lot of changes as they mature, and it's essential to be patient and understanding. They can take up to two years to become the best dog you've ever had.
Choosing a Puppy
Finding a Scotch Collie puppy can be challenging because they're less widely available than other types of Collies.
Scotch Collies are genetically diverse, so it's essential to consider what you're looking for in a dog. Ask yourself questions like: Do you want a dog that will bark at strangers or make friends easily?
You should have some idea of what you want in a dog, and it's crucial to ask good questions of the breeder. This will help you understand the type of dog you're getting and what to expect as your puppy matures.
Consider factors like the dog's temperament, energy level, and ability to live in a city or on acreage. It's also essential to meet the breeder and see their dogs on their home turf, or ask for video if that's not possible.
Here are some questions to ask the breeder:
- Bark at strangers
- Be active
- Lay about
- Make friends easily
- Be sensitive to human needs and emotions
- Go hunting with me
- Herd livestock
- Live in the city
- Live on acreage
- Get along with other animals
Your puppy will likely grow up to be similar to the parents, so it's essential to get to know both the sire and dam.
Finding Puppies
Finding a Scotch Collie puppy can be a challenge, but there are resources available to help.
Scotch Collies are less widely available than other breeds, so you may need to be patient and dedicated in your search. The Old-Time Scotch Collie Association maintains a list of breeders and a puppy waiting list, which can be a good place to start.
You can find a breeder near you by using the Old-Time Scotch Collie Association breeders map. This will help you locate a reputable breeder and get on their waiting list.
The waiting list is a great way to be notified when puppies become available. You'll receive a monthly email newsletter announcing OTSCA registered puppies available.
If you're interested in a specific litter, you can check the list of registered Old-Time Scotch Collie litters, updated weekly. This will give you the latest information on available puppies.
Here are some key resources to help you find a Scotch Collie puppy:
- Old-Time Scotch Collie Association breeders map
- Scotch Collie Puppy waiting list
- List of registered Old-Time Scotch Collie litters
Temperament & Intelligence
The temperament and intelligence of Scotch Collie puppies are truly remarkable. They are bred to be hard-working farm dogs, so they have a keen intelligence and are eager to please.
Scotch Collies are extremely people-oriented, which means they thrive on interaction with their family. They can become destructive if left alone for long periods of time, so it's essential to spend quality time with your puppy.
Their intelligence and trainability make them a joy to work with, and they're known to be alert, obedient, and eager to please. However, some Scotch Collies can be particularly defensive of their home and may bark at strangers.
With proper training and socialization, Scotch Collies can become confident and calm companions. They're also known to be gentle and sensitive, requiring a gentle hand when interacting with them.
Here are some key characteristics to consider when choosing a Scotch Collie puppy:
- Bark at strangers: Some Scotch Collies can be defensive and may bark at strangers.
- Be active: Scotch Collies need regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy.
- Lay about: Scotch Collies can be prone to laziness if they don't receive enough physical and mental activity.
- Make friends easily: Scotch Collies are known to be friendly and outgoing, making them great companions for families.
- Be sensitive to human needs and emotions: Scotch Collies are highly attuned to their human family's emotions and needs.
- Go hunting with me: While some Scotch Collies may have herding instincts, they're not typically bred for hunting.
- Herd livestock: Scotch Collies were originally bred to herd sheep and other livestock.
- Live in the city: Scotch Collies can adapt to city living, but they do require regular exercise and mental stimulation.
- Live on acreage: Scotch Collies love to have space to roam and exercise, making them a great fit for families with acreage.
- Get along with other animals: Scotch Collies are generally good with other pets, but socialization is key to ensuring they get along.
Family-Friendly Dogs
Scotch Collies are excellent with children and make very good family pets, especially if you have some property for both dogs and kids to run and play.
They have a strong herding instinct that can sometimes apply to children, but with proper training, this behavior can be redirected to play and other activities.
Scotch Collies are devoted to their families, but some can be a little reserved around unfamiliar people.
They thrive in active households where they can spend time outdoors with their owners, making them a great match for families who love the outdoors.
Compatibility with Other Pets
Scotch Collie puppies have a long history as working farm dogs, and as such, they can be quite protective of other animals in the home.
Most Scotch Collies will get along with other dogs and other types of animals, but it's essential to confirm that your dog doesn't have a strong prey drive when it comes to small pets like cats.
Good training and socialization are key to ensuring that your Scotch Collie puppy gets along with other people and animals.
Herding dogs will sometimes try to herd other animals like the family cat, but with proper training, this behavior can be managed.
Talk to your breeder about how your Scotch Collie puppy was socialized, and if it interacted with other animals besides mom and littermates.
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Owning Essentials
Owning a Scotch Collie can be a wonderful experience, but it's essential to be aware of some potential health issues. Bloat is a serious condition that can occur when the stomach fills with gas.
Collies can be prone to bloat, so it's crucial to monitor their eating habits. Feed your dog smaller meals a few times a day to prevent overeating.
Giving your dog time to digest before exercising is also vital to prevent bloat. This can help prevent a life-threatening stomach twist.
Keep containers of food out of your dog's reach to prevent overeating.
Training
Training your Scotch Collie puppy is a fun and rewarding experience, and with the right approach, you can set your pup up for a lifetime of happiness and health.
These dogs are smart and eager to please, making them a joy to train. You can start training from puppyhood with puppy kindergarten classes or basic obedience training.
Your Scotch Collie puppy should learn basic commands like sit, stay, come, and leave it. Your dog should also be able to walk well on a leash and learn how to properly interact in group situations.
To prevent excessive barking, keep your Collie mentally occupied with chew toys and Buster Cubes filled with treats. This will get their brain and body working, and they'll be less likely to bark when they're frustrated, bored, or lonely.
Socialization is also key, so take your Collie pup to shopping centers, schools, parks, or in different neighborhoods. Give some treats to the passersby, and let them offer them to your puppy. This positive experience with strangers will influence how your pet matures and interacts.
Here are some key commands to focus on with your Scotch Collie puppy:
- Sit
- Stay
- Come
- Leave it
By following these simple steps and providing mental stimulation, you'll be well on your way to raising a happy and healthy Scotch Collie.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are scotch Collies rare?
Yes, Scotch Collies are less common than other types of Collies and Shetland Sheepdogs, making them a bit harder to find. If you're interested in bringing one home, be prepared for a dedicated search.
How big do scotch Collies get?
Scotch Collies typically range from 22 to 26 inches in height and 50 to 75 pounds in weight. They are a medium to large breed with a sturdy build.
What is the temperament of the old time Scotch Collie?
The Old-Time Scotch Collie is a calm and responsive breed that's quick to learn and ready to act when needed, yet reserved with strangers. They're steady, bold, and sensible, making them a loyal and trustworthy companion.
Are Scotch Collie and Rough Collie the same thing?
No, Scotch Collie and Rough Collie are not the same, with differences in temperament, working instincts, and appearance. While they share a common breed, distinct characteristics set them apart.
Sources
- Scotch Collie Dog Breed Guide: Info, Pictures, Care & More! (dogster.com)
- Scotch Collie Dog Breed Health, Feeding, Grooming ... (petguide.com)
- Collie Puppies for Sale (buckeyepuppies.com)
- Scotch Collie Puppy waiting list (scotchcollie.org)
- Old-Time Scotch Collie Association breeders map (scotchcollie.org)
- List of registered Old-Time Scotch Collie litters (scotchcollie.org)
- https://www.scotchcollie.org/ (scotchcollie.org)
- http://www.scotchcollie.org/registry/registerLitter.php (scotchcollie.org)
- Scotch Collie (Scottish Collie) Info, Temperament, Puppies, ... (101dogbreeds.com)
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