The worldwide popularity of the Border Collie continues to grow, with buyers from across the UK, Ireland, Europe and the United States expected to take part in Harrison & Hetherington's third online Sheepdog Sale.
The H&H online auction will take place from 6pm on August 1 until 6pm on August 3, with the sale featuring around 50 dogs, predominantly ISDS-registered Border Collies together with some Huntaways and Kelpies.
Based in the heart of one of the UK's leading sheep farming regions, Harrison & Hetherington has long-standing relationships with many of the country's foremost sheep producers, breeders and sheepdog handlers. Many of these customers are expected to enter dogs for the sale, giving buyers access to quality working sheepdogs from respected bloodlines.
The inaugural sale achieved a top price of £19,800, while the second peaked at £18,600, underlining the continued demand for quality British-bred working sheepdogs. Fully trained dogs regularly average around £6,000, although values vary depending on breeding, age, training and proven ability. The sale will offer dogs at every stage of their working careers, from newly born pups to experienced working sheepdogs, appealing to commercial farmers, sheepdog trial competitors and international buyers.
Oliver Watson, Auctioneer at Harrison & Hetherington, has competed in sheepdog trials throughout his life and has represented England at international level, including the World Sheepdog Championships. He said:
“The quality of the dogs our customers put forward is extremely high, and that's one of the reasons these online sales have attracted such strong interest from across the UK, Ireland, Europe and the United States.
“This online virtual auction allows buyers to watch each dog working, study its breeding and bid with confidence wherever they are in the world. Whether they are looking for a fully trained working dog, a promising young prospect or a well-bred pup, the sale offers access to some outstanding sheepdogs. We are looking forward to another strong entry and another successful sale.”
Originally developed in the border country between England and Scotland, the Border Collie has earned a worldwide reputation for its intelligence, trainability and natural stock-handling ability. While remaining the preferred working sheepdog on farms, the breed has also become increasingly popular in sheepdog trials and as a companion dog, creating demand that extends far beyond Britain's shores.
The Harrison and Hetherington online format conducted by Mart Eye, enables prospective purchasers to view videos and detailed information on every dog before bidding, allowing buyers from anywhere in the world to purchase with confidence.
For further information or to enter a dog, contact Oliver Watson at [email protected] . Catalogues and bidding information are available through the Harrison & Hetherington website.