He was perhaps best known for playing constable Clay Horton in the American children's adventure television series Lassie from 1954 to 1956.

[4] In the same year, he appeared in the films The Battle at Apache Pass, Red Ball Express, Scarlet Angel, Untamed Frontier, Son of Ali Baba, and Torpedo Alley.

[5] Later film appearances included Forever Female (1953), The Desperado (1954), The Man from Bitter Ridge (1955), Friendly Persuasion (1956), My Gun Is Quick (1957), 13 Fighting Men (1960), Panic in Year Zero!

[citation needed] Garland made his television debut in the situation comedy series My Little Margie in 1953.

[7] He made guest-starring in television programs including The Deputy, 77 Sunset Strip, The Life and Legend of Wyatt Earp,The Rifleman, Mission: Impossible, 26 Men, Daniel Boone, Perry Mason and The Virginian.