Carolyn Lenhart | Marnus Collies

Interview with Carolyn Lenhart, Breeder of Marnus Collies

1. Please tell us a little bit about yourself. Where do you live? How many years in dogs? How many years as a breeder? What is your kennel name?
2. What are the hallmarks of your breed and why are they important for maintaining breed type?
3. In your opinion, are there enough puppy homes to support breeding a litter this year?
4. How have you implemented new technologies in science and communications as a breeder?
5. In your community, have you noticed a change in the public’s perception of purebred dogs?
6. Have you noticed any trends in the sport? Anything to be concerned about?
7. What are some of the positive changes you’ve seen in the sport in recent years?

Carolyn Lenhart

1. I am a second-generation Collie breeder, proudly continuing the legacy of Marnus Collies. Originally established and registered with the AKC (American Kennel Club) in 1946 by my mother, Marcia Keller, until I assumed the ownership following her passing 15 years ago. I am dedicated to preserving the quality and tradition she began, as Marnus has been active for over 79 years. We are currently based in Maryland and breed one to two carefully planned litters per year. In addition, I am an AKC licensed judge for Collies and an approved mentor.

2. Collies were originally bred for herding and as loyal farm companions, making sound movement and stable temperament essential traits. However, it is the unique head properties that truly distinguish the Collie from other herding breeds. A Collie cannot be accurately judged without a careful evaluation of its expression. Achieving the breed’s signature soft, sweet expression depends on maintaining correct head balance, eye shape, size, and set, as well as proper ear carriage—all of which are critical to preserving the breed’s
classic look.

3. We are fortunate to have numerous loyal repeat puppy families and a wonderful network of breeder-friends who assist to place puppies and young adults into great homes.

4. We do utilize some social media sites to announce litters arriving, up-and-comers, or just showing our Collies being valued family members. Improvements in available health testing and reproductive testing have also enhanced breeding options.

5. As a breeder, we fantasize about the public fully recognizing the value of knowing the well-bred dog’s history and our devotion to preserving the breed. I encourage potential owners to visit the kennel and interact with the dogs prior to adding a dog to their home. This often better illustrates the difference, as they get to know the entire family behind their new addition and there are no surprises.

6. I am concerned about the number of shows available and how it has diluted the competition and judge selection, and introduced more mediocre Champions that will not enhance the bloodlines in the future. I want to compete against the best and elevate my goals and breeding programs. Even our Specialty clubs are struggling, as members are aging out and new membership is not increasing at a similar rate. Smaller clubs are folding, and the Specialty clubs gave us greater opportunities to mentor newer enthusiasts.

7. The addition of the NOHS (National Owner-Handled Series) has encouraged some to continue to exhibit their beautiful representations of the breed, which has increased exposure to the breed. It is now easier to find fun activities to safely do with your dog and find evaluators. And as stated above, health testing has become more available and encouraged. Many of my first-time puppy owners have the ability to research breeds and have more awareness of health concerns to be aware of by breed.