Improvements in animal husbandry and veterinary medicine ensure
whelps are reared to maturity which would previously have died. Additionally, in today’s politically correct society, it is no longer acceptable to cull the unthrifty encouraging the continuation of defects which have existed for many generations. Advances in veterinary science mean that breeders now know the cause and genetic makeup of abnormalities that had been either known about or suspected since before the establishment of recognised breeds and such discoveries will continue to uncover as yet unknown conditions but modern specialist breeders, and the clubs which support them, do address each new discovery as the scientific knowledge is made available.

It is not currently thought that the Rough Collie is susceptible to any life threatening inherited abnormalities but it is known that the Rough Collie is predisposed to four inheritable conditions, covered on subsequent pages, of lesser severity.

Ever watchful and
alert a family group of  
Wolves in their natural  environment. Claimed as
the forbearers of all dogs.

A group of modern healthy
Rough Collies enjoying
the freedom of exercise
and play in open country

The Rough Collie’s natural unexaggerated form has protected it from many of the inherited conditions which plague a number of breeds. In fact in shape, size and construction the Rough Collie remains similar
to its original forbearers the Wolf,
from which we are assured
all breeds descend, and
therefore enjoys a
comparatively
healthy existence
living a natural
canine lifespan
of twelve to
fourteen years.

In common with all living species,
including our own, they do occasionally
become unwell, and it has to be admitted
that they are also susceptible to a small
number of inherited conditions, which responsible
breeders endeavour to minimize as much as possible,
by the careful selection of breeding stock and the monitoring
of their development.

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