Non-Sporting Dogs

The Collies. A widely known Scottish sheep-herding breed of great intelligence and beauty. Its name is probably derived from the colley or mountain sheep of the Scottish Highlands. It is an expert at handling large flocks. Many people know this dog chiefly as a beautiful, intelligent companion, idealized by "Lassie", star of movies and television. But in the great sheep raising districts of Scotland, England, and Wales, he is still the shepherd's indispensable helper. In the land of misty mountains one, good dog does the work-of a dozen men; no other animal could replace him. Working Collie doesn't look very much like the long-muzzled, beruffled, well-groomed specimens that grace the dog shows.

Some authorities believe that Rough and Smooth Collies originally were different breeds. But today their difference is confined to coat. The Smooth-haired Collie, a more uncommon variety of the breed, developed principally in Britain's county of Northumberland as a cattle-drover's dog. Rough or Smooth, the Collie is gentle and affectionate in nature, graceful in gait. Deep, moderately wide chest, sloping shoulders, and well-bent hocks hint at speed and strength. Light, tapering head and fairly long, rounded muzzle with slight stop between give an air of refinement. Shoulder height 22-26 inches. He is one of the most easily trained dogs and shows a boundless sense of responsibility; countless stories of a Collie herding a child from the path of an automobile echo a centuries-old heritage of faithful guardianship of whatever is committed to his charge.

The Doberman Pinscher. This German breed came into being from crossing various breeds including early Rottweilers and large black-and-tan Terriers. It took its name from Louis Doberman who founded the breed in 1890. Originally designed as a watchdog and household guardian, the bold and inquisitive Doberman early proved himself a superb police and war dog. Dobermans were used, as German Shepherds, to flush snipers from the trees and caves, and to warn against enemy ambush. The keen-nosed dogs have since made civilian careers of detecting night-time prowlers in stores and warehouses. With his natural animal beauty the "Dobe" strides with the air of a superbly conditioned gymnast. From wedge-shaped head to docked tail he makes a clean-lined, compactly muscled figure, and is often much heavier than he appears. Deep chest, tucked-up belly, straight forelegs, and strong hindquarters provide his notable speed and endurance.

Except where it is prohibited by law, the Dober-man's ears are cropped to trim points. His smooth, hard coat is usually black and tan, but can be brown or blue. Height 27 inches.

Essentially a one-man dog, the Doberman Pinscher does not show affection to strangers; but when his respect and devotion are earned, he gives them for life.