12/02/2025
I was just offered a 14 month old Border Collie for $700. It was bred by a breeder that I truly respect. However, its owner has given it no training and keeps it outside. It tends to run away (as I would under such circumstances).
She thought I could use him as a stud dog even though she got him on a non-breeding contract.
I explained that even if she had breeding rights I would need to know more about his temperament and health history. He would need to have basic and advanced obedience training, excel in sports/athletics and trick dog. He would need Pennhip testing and DNA testing. I would need to know how his siblings are performing in their homes and what their health histories have been. But wait, there’s even more. He’d have to be examined by a canine reproduction veterinarian to be certain he can perform his duties and sire litters. All of this takes time, money and effort.
At the end of our conversation I think she believed I was gaslighting her. However, I had only scratched the surface in discussing what it takes to select a good stud dog.
Picture of JJ, well, cause it doesn’t get any better than her!