
Albert Payson Terhune was an American writer and dog breeder renowned for his heartfelt novels centered around the adventures of his beloved collies. Growing up in a literary environment, Terhune developed a passion for writing that would lead him to create a unique niche in American literature. His most notable works, including 'Lad: A Dog' and 'Bruce: The Story of a Dog', captured the loyalty and intelligence of collies, resonating with readers and dog enthusiasts alike. Terhune's vivid storytelling and deep affection for his canine companions brought a new dimension to animal fiction, making him a beloved figure in the genre. In addition to his literary contributions, Terhune was a prominent collie breeder at his Sunnybank Kennels, where he dedicated himself to the preservation and promotion of the Rough Collie breed. His breeding practices and the lines he established continue to influence the breed today. Terhune's legacy endures not only through his engaging narratives but also through his impact on dog breeding, making him a significant figure in both literature and the canine community.
“Win without boasting. Lose without excuse.”
“Any man with money to make the purchase may become a dog's owner. But no man --spend he ever so much coin and food and tact in the effort-- may become a dog's Master without consent of the dog. Do you get the difference? And he whom a dog once unreservedly accepts as Master is forever that dog's God.”
“Soon or late, every dog's master's memory becomes a graveyard; peopled by wistful little furry ghosts that creep back unbidden, at times, to a semblance of their olden lives.”