No really good answer to that one.  I love my purebreds, really, but knowing some of the things they're susceptible to (and shelties are pretty easy compared to some), I wish there was some way to retain their look but develop a little ...

but then again, when Reiley eventually passes, and Reno, I do intend on following the purebred track again and getting a top-end rough collie...what can I say, I love collies and shelties...

but Brandy, my mixed up borderlinecollie/sheltie girl, is the best - knock on wood, she hasn't been sick, had rotten teeth, needing special meds...just a healthy mutt, but I won't tell her she's a mutt.

dwain

good question!

I've always wondered this, too. They're making humans live longer and longer, but who wants to if our pups can't be with us?? They should work on all of that stuff...

I certainly agree with you.  The most perfect dog at the dog show is not worth much if it has a disease in it's furture.