Selecting means taking responsibility
• Health and genetic tests: Every breeding dog is subject to hip and elbow dysplasia screenings, ophthalmologic exams and DNA tests for congenital diseases (CEA, TNS, MDR1). Only dogs with clear results continue in our program.
• Character and temperament: We evaluate stability, sociability and work aptitude to ensure puppies inherit balanced, adaptable temperaments suited for active family life.
• Bloodlines and morphology: We study pedigrees and select bloodlines known for type, longevity and sound structure, always respecting the Border Collie standard.
• Responsibility and patience: Selection is a long‑term process. We follow our dogs throughout their lives and plan litters only when we can guarantee the best physical and mental well‑being for mothers and puppie
Health and Genetic Evaluation of Breeding Dogs
Before planning a litter, each of our Border Collies undergoes official health screenings and breed-specific genetic testing.
Health is not a technical detail, but the foundation on which we build every breeding decision.
We carry out screening for:
HD – Hip Dysplasia
ED – Elbow Dysplasia
Hereditary Eye Diseases
And genetic testing for:
TNS
CEA/CL
MDR1
DM
PRCD-PRA
GG
IGS
SN
Each result is evaluated as part of the whole picture, considering genetic combinations, compatibility between dogs, and the long-term outlook of the bloodline.
Selection does not simply mean "passing tests," but responsibly choosing which dogs can contribute in a healthy and consistent way to the development of the breed.
Temperament Selection and Family Compatibility
The selection of a Border Collie is not only about structure and genetics, but also about emotional balance and suitability for a family environment.
We carefully observe the temperament of our dogs from an early age, evaluating stability, responsiveness, ability to focus, stress management, and the quality of interaction with people and other dogs.
A Border Collie may be correct from a morphological standpoint, but if its character is not aligned with the family's lifestyle, the risk is to create misunderstandings and difficulties over time.
For this reason, we select dogs that are balanced, cooperative, and able to adapt to a life shared with people, without losing the typical characteristics of the breed.
Compatibility is not a detail: it is the foundation of a peaceful and lasting relationship.
Our Selection Process Before Planning a Litter
Each litter is the result of a structured process that requires time, observation, and thoughtful decisions.
Before planning a pairing, we follow a precise process, developed over the years and refined through experience.
1. Health and Genetic Evaluation
We analyze the official screening results (HD, ED, hereditary eye diseases) and breed-specific genetic tests, studying the most consistent and safe combinations in the long term.
2. Temperament and Emotional Stability Assessment
We observe temperament, balance, stress management, and the ability to cooperate with people, evaluating each dog in real, everyday contexts.
3. Compliance with the Breed Standard and Functionality
We evaluate structure, movement, and breed type not as isolated aesthetic elements, but as indicators of long-term functionality and health.
4. Study of Bloodlines
We analyze pedigrees, genetic combinations, and the history of the lines in order to avoid unbalanced pairings and maintain consistency in our selection path.
5. Evaluation of Reproductive Conditions and Context
We consider the maturity of the dogs, their physical condition, and the requests of the families on our waiting list, planning a litter only when we believe the conditions are truly appropriate.
We do not plan litters automatically or frequently.
Each decision is made only when we believe it represents a coherent and responsible step in our breeding program.
What We Do Not Do
For clarity, this is what is not part of our approach
- We do not schedule litters "by calendar" or on request.
- We do not breed for quantity or immediate availability.
- We do not select only for aesthetics or trends.
- We do not promise the "right" puppy without first getting to know each other.
- We do not place puppies through impulsive or rushed decisions.
We prefer to be honest: the well-being of the dog always comes first.
A Path of Mutual Understanding
Not every family is suitable for every dog, just as not every dog is suitable for every family.
For this reason, before confirming placement on our waiting list or planning a match, we dedicate time to getting to know each other.
We listen to your expectations, your lifestyle, the time you can dedicate to the dog, and the environment in which it will live. At the same time, we openly explain the characteristics of the breed and the specific needs of our dogs.
This is not about selecting "better families," but about avoiding impulsive or poorly considered decisions.
When we believe that the right conditions are not in place, we prefer to be honest.
Responsibility toward our dogs and toward the families always comes first.
Our goal is to create balanced, lasting matches that respect the needs of both sides.
