i thout that Carrie was talking a lot of sence but she is writing about Border collies. These are a different although similar breed. You're talking about a true collie or lassie dog.

Anyways the answer is: if you want a loyal good looking pet that eveyone will make a fuss of, go for a collie. They are not greedy like labs, jumpy like spaniels or agressive like GSDs.

They don't need constant brushing like everyone thinks. although behind the ears can get a bit matted.

They do make good watchdogs but can have a tendancy to bark.

They hve stamina as well as pace; so consequetly need a ocassional run off the lead.

As puppies thay are very imature and take longer to grow up compared to other breeds.

Some reutable breaders and authors claim they have a sixth sence. I do not fully agree with this. However you can easilly tell exactly what mood your collie is in by her body language. Also she appears to anticipate your movements and can second guess your actions.

Collies can be terrified of invisible things that block their way. Wheter it's a strange smell or shadow - who knows!!??? I always have to have ground floor room in a hotel as my dog often refuses to climb strange stairs. This is despite the fact that she happily climbs a mountain better than any mountain goat. It is embarrasing to ask for a disabled room whilst going on a hiking holiday.

GSDs - fantastic dogs but not so good looking as collies.

Boarder collies are far easier to train but need more mental challanges.