Breed Spotlight: the Border Collie

Unlike many modern-day breeds, the Border Collie’s origin has been rather well-documented, thanks in part to a large following and interest in the preservation and advancement of this fascinating breed. Prior to the establishment of dog breeds, the British Isles—including today’s areas of Scotland, England, and Wales—were long-known for their herding dogs. Throughout the centuries, these canines were simply known as shepherd dogs, and they were not considered distinct breeds. These dogs varied from county to county, with different areas having their own strain that they preferred. The dogs that were used in the counties and shires along the Anglo-Scottish border are believed to be the ancestors of the modern-day Border Collie. 

Today, the Border Collie is still used for herding sheep and a number of other animals such as cows, ducks, geese, and more. He also excels in many other areas and disciplines, such as obedience, tracking and article search, flyball, dock diving, and therapy work, and he remains one of the most agile breeds in existence.

Want to learn more about the Border Collie? Click here for the full breed standard.