Collie Breed description: Character & Co

What are typical Collie diseases?

If you are interested in a Collie in the color blue merle, take a close look at the pedigree. Similar to the Border Collie, there is an increased incidence of diseases when both parents have the typical silvery-blue colour, and Collie puppies are often born deaf or blind. Animals, which carry the so called merle factor, suffer more often from other eye diseases like strongly reduced visual organs or defects at the eye skins. Some of the dogs in this colour also have problems with balance. Even if the kittens behave normally, their hearing may be reduced. Studies on supposedly healthy pied Collies with the blue coloration have shown that 37 percent of the four-legged friends suffer from hearing loss. Another breed-specific disease that can affect animals of any color is Collie Eye Syndrome. This is a pathological change of the retina, which is sometimes already noticeable in puppies with nine weeks. In other forms the defect is hardly noticeable. The MDR1 defect also occurs more frequently in Collies: This is a hypersensitivity to some medications. The trigger for this is that a certain protein (P-glycoprotein) cannot be produced by the body itself.

What should be considered when breeding a Collie?

Especially if you're interested in a Collie puppy in the distinctive blue merle color, you'd better take your time choosing. A reputable Collie breeder will give you the opportunity to meet the mother and possibly the father of the puppies. A close look at the eyes and the general state of health is worthwhile. If the animals look well groomed and the coat is shiny, this is already a good sign. It also pays to take a look at the vaccination record and have the pedigree shown.