Working Border Collie Breeders
About Kuykendall’s Border Collies Program
At our family-owned border collie breeding program in Franklinville, NC, we raise exceptional dogs with strong work ethic that excel in a variety of roles from herding livestock to professional geese control. With three generations of experience and a deep love for the breed, our goal is to preserve the intelligence, agility, and loyalty that make border collies so remarkable.
Nestled in the rolling hills of Franklinville, our facility has been home to national champion border collies and is also the base for our sister company, Goose Masters, which uses border collies for professional geese control services. Whether you’re a farmer, a dog trainer, or own a goose control company, we can help you find the perfect dog to meet your needs.
At our farm, every puppy is raised with care, attention, and purpose. From health testing and early socialization to training with livestock, we make sure each dog is ready for their future home. Keep reading to learn more about what makes our program unique and why our border collies are trusted and loved by people across the country.
Our History
The story of our border collie breeding program began with a passion for shepherding and herding breeds. Kent Kuykendall grew up immersed in sheep farming, learning the art of herding and training border collies from his father, Henry, who imported top working lines from the UK. By age 13, Kent had trained his first dog, Pepper, and won his first novice award, marking the start of his lifelong connection with border collies.
Kent’s wife, Gwen, brought her own expertise to the partnership. She graduated from the University of Connecticut’s Animal Science Department with a focus on ovine genetics and has a lifetime of experience raising sheep. Together, they combined their knowledge of livestock and border collies to develop a breeding program focused on raising dogs with both exceptional talent and work ethic.
Over the years, Kent gained recognition as a leading trainer and handler, with dogs like Bill and Coon earning top honors in national trials and prestigious awards. His ability to bring out the natural abilities in every dog he worked with set him apart as one of the best in the field. Today, Kent and Gwen continue their legacy, raising and training border collies capable of excelling in herding, trials, and other roles.
Our Breeding Practices and Philosophy
Great dogs come from careful, responsible breeding. That’s why we put so much effort into making sure every border collie we raise is healthy, well tempered, and ready for a life of hard work or companionship. Here’s how we make that happen:
Health Comes First
Every dog in our breeding program goes through regular health testing to make sure they are free from genetic issues common in border collies. We prioritize strong, healthy dogs to give their puppies the best possible start in life.
Careful Selection of Parents
We choose our sires and dams—well-established ninth and tenth-generation individuals—based on their working abilities, health, and temperament so their puppies inherit the intelligence, stamina, and skills needed for work or play.
Early Socialization
We start socializing our puppies from the day they’re born. This means introducing them to different sounds, sights, and environments, as well as gentle handling and early training exercises. By the time they’re ready to join your home, they’re confident and well prepared.
Focus on Working Skills
Our breeding program isn’t just about looks—it’s about producing dogs that can excel in herding, agility, and other activities. We give puppies opportunities to interact with livestock and practice their natural instincts, so they’re ready to take on real-world tasks.
Lifelong Support
We believe in building lifelong relationships with the people who adopt our dogs. That's why we offer continued support for any issues or questions you might have throughout your dog's entire life. Whether it's advice on training, health, or just sharing stories, we're here to help you and your border collie have a happy, fulfilling life together.
Roles Our Border Collies May Excel In
We raise border collies that are versatile, hardworking, and well suited to a variety of roles. Here are some of the roles our working border collies may excel in:
Skilled Herding Dogs
Our border collies are bred for their natural herding instincts and are ideal for sheep and goat farmers. With proper training, they excel in managing livestock efficiently, saving farmers time and effort. Many of our dogs have gone on to work on farms and ranches across the country.
Top Dogs for Geese Control
Our border collies are trusted by geese control companies for their herding skills and natural instincts. Trained to guide geese away from unwanted areas safely, our dogs have proven themselves to be some of the best in the industry.
Perfect Partners for Dog Trainers
Professional dog trainers love working with border collies because of their intelligence and eagerness to learn. We raise dogs with the focus and trainability needed to excel in advanced obedience, agility, and other canine sports. Our dogs make excellent training partners for professionals and enthusiasts alike.
Reliable Therapy Dogs
With their calm demeanor and ability to connect with people, many of our border collies make excellent therapy dogs. Whether it’s providing comfort to individuals in need or working in therapy programs, these dogs bring joy and relief to those around them.
Loyal Family Companions
Border collies aren’t just working dogs—they’re also loving and loyal pets. If you’re looking for an intelligent, active, and affectionate dog to join your family, our puppies are a perfect choice. They’re socialized early to make sure they’re well behaved and ready to become part of your household.
Contact Kuykendall’s Border Collies Today
Border Collie Breeders in Franklinville, NC
Whether you’re looking for a loyal family companion, a skilled herding partner, or a highly trained working dog, we are here to help you find your perfect match.
When you choose a border collie from us, you’re not just getting a dog—you’re gaining a lifelong partnership with breeders who truly care. From early socialization to lifetime consultation and support, we’re here for you and your dog.
Ready to find your next working partner or family companion? Contact us today to learn more about our upcoming litters, available dogs, or to schedule a visit to our farm in Franklinville, NC.