Yes, I think it's cruel. I know a few Collie owners and breeders who have de-barked their dogs, and I really don't agree with it. However, if it came down to taking the dog to an animal shelter because of its excessive barking, I would rather see the dog de-barked then end up in a shelter. That's really the only time I would "agree" with having it done.

De-barking does not even get rid of the dog's bark.. it just lowers the volume of it.

My parents have thought about getting Molly de-barked at one time.. and sometimes they still do, but I will not allow it. Collies are KNOWN to bark -- just ask any Collie owner and they will tell you -- and we knew this when we were picking and choosing breeds. Same with all dogs. They bark. I just don't like it when people seem to want to take the "easy way out" with these types of issues instead of taking the time to train them. If it is a last resort, though.. then I do agree with getting it done.