In color, "Cockie" was a rich sable and white on neck, white frill, tip of tail and legs and feet; the latter slightly ticked with specks of br9wn. In size he was of the medium order, sturdy in build and his well-proportioned body was set upon legs and feet that were strong in bone and sound. He had a pentiful supply of the desirable class of coat, to the density of which a full under coat contributed. The coat was very full on neck and shoulders, forming a handsome mane and cape. His ears were moderate as regards size and if not carried so high as those of some of the more modern productions, they were natural and carried semi-erect' a carriage which gave a more artistic finishing touch to the picture than do the tampered with prick ears.
"Cockie's" greatness as a show dog was just about equalled by the influence for good he exerted as a sire. His name looms pre-eminent as that of the progenitor to whom, as regards color, the sable Collie owes its existence.
He was described as the best specimen of a Collie ever exhibited; at any rate the winner of more prizes. On August 18, 1875 "Old Cockie" was sold at auction to Mr. G. Dean Tomlinson, Birmingham, England. This event determined "Old Cockie's retirement from the show ring, and he lived a life of serenity till his death in August, 1882 |
