Collies, once in huge demand in Soviet times, are now rarely seen on city streets
Dog breed popularity changes over time: breeds that were widespread in the 1990s are now relatively rare. Latvijas Avīze uses the collie as an example, as its lush coat takes a lot of time to groom.
Dog breed popularity shifts much like fashion in clothing or manicure colours. A Latvijas Avīze article notes that pets that were very common in the 1990s are now seen relatively rarely on city streets. The headline refers to five breeds, but the available part of the text describes only one in detail: the collie.
Limited choice and a rush of excitement
During the Soviet period, the choice of pedigree dogs was limited. When a particular dog appeared on television or in the cinema, it immediately caused a great stir, and it was precisely such breeds that became especially popular.
The collie
Long-haired collies became extremely popular after a multi-episode film about Lassie was shown on television. Buying a puppy was not easy: at kennels it could cost as much as a qualified engineer earned in a month, and people sometimes had to wait in line for years.
Today collies are rarely seen in city streets. According to the publication, busy city residents do not have enough time to look after the dog's long, luxuriant coat.
The article suggests that the choice of breeds is shaped both by cultural events and by the daily rhythm of residents. The available source text gives no further information about the other four breeds.
