What are Traditional Farm Collies and/or
Old Time Scotch Collies?
Old Time Scotch Collies (OTSC) were originally a broad group of working dog bred for practicality and companionship on the customary homestead. Though they often lived in family settings, these dogs were known for their ability to understand the needs of the farm and shepherd without micromanagement or excessive instruction. With some basic training and their very special intuition in play, the OTSC excelled in driving and gathering, protecting stock and property, and devotedly shadowing their beloved families (particularly children). These family dogs tended to be reserved with strangers. One of the very special things about this working breed is their ability to not work - referred to as an "off switch" - when there is no work to be done. These dogs molded very easily into watchful shepherds who were content to lay on the hearth or by their master's feet until it was time for chores or something caused them to alert. A versatile dog, they were bred for varmint control of the homestead, scent work, retrieving, fence and property line keepers, and often performing feats showcasing their amazing intelligence and problem-solving skills. They often communicated in surprising ways when something was amiss or not quite right. The OTSC loyalty and devotion is well-documented, many finding their way home if lost over enormous distances. Several herding dog breeds came out of this traditional Farm Shepherd, such as the Rough Collie (now mostly bred for show), but originally, these Farm Shepherds were a landrace breed. The OTSC has changed names multiple times and has a diversity of type, as farmers of the past attempted to match their best suited bitches and sires to continue to enhance these remarkable skills.
Today, as Shepherd's Hearth Traditional Farm Collies, we strive to continue this practice: Matching the most intuitive working farm shepherds with a high desire to please, genetic and structural soundness, gentleness with grit when necessary, a solid "off-switch," and family companions with the ability to work and excel in a variety of activities. Fully capable homestead managers who are suited first to be simply wonderful family guardians... And we have the dogs and stories to back us up!
The ideal and traditional farm and family shepherd.
Today, as Shepherd's Hearth Traditional Farm Collies, we strive to continue this practice: Matching the most intuitive working farm shepherds with a high desire to please, genetic and structural soundness, gentleness with grit when necessary, a solid "off-switch," and family companions with the ability to work and excel in a variety of activities. Fully capable homestead managers who are suited first to be simply wonderful family guardians... And we have the dogs and stories to back us up!
The ideal and traditional farm and family shepherd.
Please check out the link below for more information: