Border Collie History

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Border collie history dates back as far as the 1800’s. Over time, the breed has been transformed into how we know them in today’s modern world. Following the blood line can be tricky, due to lack of historic records kept. The transformation over time only changes slightly, but it’s interesting to see where exactly they were derived. First and foremost, the breed has always been known as a herding sheepdog. 

Border Collie Origin

Border Collie History Timeline

Welsh Sheepdog

The Welsh Sheepdog, aka welsh collie, dates back to the 1800’s. No record of the breeds genealogy was kept during this period, so it’s tough to pinpoint an exact date. They are known to have a strong guarding instinct as well as instincts to circle a large herd of livestock. The welsh sheepdog is still around today, but there are very few.  In the 1800’s there was a lot of cross breeding with border collies. The breed is very similar with a few distinctive differences. Welsh collie is the name given to a cross-breed between the two.

Old Hemp (September 1893-May 1901)

Old Hemp Border Collie

Old Hemp is know to be the “Father” of the border collie breed. He was a wildly sought after stud dog, producing over 200 offspring during his short seven and a half years of life. In fact, pure-bred border collies can be traced back to Old Hemp to this day.

The border collie history was born officially with Old Hemp. The international sheepdog society started a stud book back in 1915, including him as their ninth entry. His style is what set him apart during his era. He worked at a much quieter pace than the other sheepdogs at the time. 

Cumberland Sheepdog

Cumberland Sheepdog was known prior to 1899 before becoming completely extinct. It is said to be related to the Border Collie and Australian Shepherd breeds. There is very little information noted in history on this herding working dog.

Some believe that the cumberland sheepdog absorbed into a border collie. It has been referenced to be very similar to a welsh sheepdog in stature and in performance. I cannot say for certain, but I believe the border collie history begins as early as the 1800’s, being previously named a welsh sheepdog, then overtime inheriting the final breed name as a border collie.

International Sheep Dog Society (ISDS)

The original secretary of the ISDS, James Reid, may have been the first person in history to recognize the border collie breed. He referenced the name in 1915, thus creating their breed recognition from then on. He also wrote many papers on the working sheep dog, and was quite fond and enthusiastic towards them. I suppose I would have been too if I got to spend my days watching hard working border collies helping their shepherds.

AKC Border Collie

Under protest, the border collie was finally added to the American Kennel Club as their own category in 1995. Prior to their recognition, they were listed under a miscellaneous category for over 50 years. Now that they are listed, you can find an AKC registered puppy on their site. We explain how to train your puppy among other useful tips to owning the smartest breed in the world.

History Of Border Collies

The history of collies dates back to the 19th century. Some would argue, myself included, that they were around long before but under a different name. I believe they were originally a welsh sheepdog, or some other type of herding dog, and over time they became who we know them to be today.

Throughout the 1800’s there were many sheep dogs that helped the shepherds tend to the livestock. Few things have changed in terms of a border collies instinct to herd. However, they have became more domesticated and make terrific household pets. That is given that you can keep up with their high energy level.

Where Did Border Collies Originate?

The border between England and Scotland, the Anglo-Scottish, is where their name is said to have originated. The word “collie” comes from an old Celtic word that translates to “useful” which is a pretty accurate description of a border collie.

The border collie breed originated somewhere in the British Isles before becoming extremely sought after. Once farmers realized how loyal, hard-working, and intelligent they were, then they became popular in many other countries. Lucky for owners like myself, the breed has not changed a whole lot over time. Therefore, I am able to have a very active dog, while also having the privilege of experiencing her undying loyalty.

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