The Border Collie is one of the most iconic and respected herding breeds in the world. Known for exceptional intelligence, unmatched work ethic, and intense herding instinct, the breed has a rich history rooted in the borderlands of Scotland and England. Understanding the origins of the Border Collie helps explain why today’s dogs excel in herding, agility, obedience, and active companion homes.

The Border Collie’s ancestry dates back hundreds of years to the rough, hilly terrain between Scotland and northern England—an area simply known as “the Border.” Shepherds in this region depended on highly capable dogs to manage sheep across challenging landscapes. These early dogs were bred for:

• Intelligence and problem-solving
• Stamina and agility
• Balance, eye, and natural herding instinct
• Trainability and responsiveness to handlers

Rather than breeding for appearance, shepherds focused on functional traits. This working-first mindset shaped the Border Collie into the remarkable herding dog we know today.

The true foundation of the modern Border Collie began with a dog named Old Hemp, whelped in 1893. Bred by Adam Telfer in Northumberland, Old Hemp demonstrated a quiet, controlled herding style that stood out from other sheepdogs of the time. His ability to move livestock with minimal noise, strong eye, and natural balance revolutionized the breed. Old Hemp sired over 200 puppies, passing on his calm, powerful working style. Nearly all modern Border Collies trace back to him, making him a cornerstone of the breed’s genetic heritage.

As the demand for skilled herding dogs grew, shepherds and handlers began organizing sheepdog trials in the late 1800s. These competitions tested the dogs’ ability to gather, drive, and pen sheep using precision and teamwork with their handler. The International Sheep Dog Society (ISDS) was founded in 1906 to support breeding, registration, and preservation of working ability. Unlike many kennel clubs, the ISDS continues to emphasize performance over appearance, ensuring that true Border Collies maintain their working instincts. Later, kennel clubs such as the American Kennel Club (AKC) and United Kennel Club (UKC) recognized the breed, but the working community such as the American Border Collie Association (ABCA) has remained dedicated to preserving the traits that make Border Collies elite herding dogs.

Although originally developed as a working sheepdog, the Border Collie quickly proved its versatility. Today, the breed is a top competitor in:

• Agility
• Obedience
• Herding trials
• Flyball
• Disc dog sports
• Search and rescue
• Service and therapy work

Their intelligence, biddability, and athleticism allow them to excel in nearly every canine activity.

Modern Border Collies remain deeply connected to their working roots. While many now live as active companion dogs, the breed still thrives in environments that engage both mind and body. Whether managing livestock, competing in dog sports, or hiking with their families, Border Collies continue to embody the instinct, heart, and brilliance of their ancestors.

At Edge of Time Border Collies, our breeding program honors this rich history by maintaining dogs with:

• Strong working instinct
• Clear thinking and problem-solving ability
• Balanced temperament and drive
• Healthy, proven bloodlines

We are committed to preserving the qualities that have made the Border Collie extraordinary for centuries.

Choosing between a purpose-bred Border Collie from Edge of Time Border Collies and adopting a shelter or rescue dog is an important decision. Both options can lead to wonderful companionship, but the right choice depends on your goals, experience, and expectations.

Below are the most common questions future owners ask when deciding which path is right for them.

An EOT Border Collie is ideal for individuals or families who:

• Want a dog with predictable temperament, drive, and working ability
• Are interested in agility, herding, obedience, flyball, or active sports
• Need a dog suited for ranch work or performance homes
• Prefer a puppy raised with early neurological stimulation (ENS), socialization, and structured development
• Want full transparency in health testing, genetics, and lineage
• Value lifetime breeder support from people who know the breed deeply

If you’re looking for a Border Collie with a reliable temperament, carefully planned genetics, and the best possible foundation for sport or work, a puppy from our program is often the best fit.

Adopting from a shelter or rescue can be a great choice for people who:

• Prefer an adult dog with an already developed personality
• Do not have specific sport or working goals
• Are open to a wide range of energy levels and temperaments
• Want to give a second chance to a dog in need
• Are prepared to handle possible behavior unknowns or past trauma
• Do not require a puppy or predictable genetic background

Shelter Border Collies can be fantastic companions, but their history—and sometimes their breed mix—may be unknown.

Our dogs are bred with intention: for health, temperament, structure, and working intelligence. This means:

• You know the puppy’s pedigree
• You know what kind of temperament to expect
• You know the health testing behind the parents
• You know the dog’s likely abilities and drive level

With rescue dogs, those details are often unknown.

Edge of Time puppies are raised with:

• ENS & ESI
• Socialization protocols
• Controlled exposures
• Puppy aptitude evaluations

This foundation creates confident, balanced puppies.

Shelter dogs may or may not have had early structure or positive experiences.

Not necessarily—but with a rescue dog, genetic history is usually unknown.

At EOT, all breeding dogs undergo:

• Full genetic panel testing
• OFA evaluations
• Eye exams
• Detailed lineage review

This reduces the risk of hereditary conditions and helps ensure structural soundness.

Absolutely not. Both responsible breeding and responsible rescue serve important roles.

Choosing a purpose-bred Border Collie is the right decision when:

• You need a predictable working or sport partner
• You want a dog raised with specific training foundations
• You value health transparency and genetic planning

Choosing a rescue is the right decision when:

• You want to give a dog in need a home
• You don’t require specific traits or training potential

Both are valid and compassionate choices.

Ask yourself:

• Do I want a puppy or an adult?
• Do I need a dog with known lineage and predictable temperament?
• Do I have sport or herding goals?
• Am I prepared for the unknowns that sometimes come with rescue dogs?
• Do I prefer guidance and ongoing breeder support?

If you want guidance tailored to your situation, we’re happy to talk through your needs and help you make the best decision—whether or not you choose an EOT puppy.

We openly discuss whether our puppies are the right fit, and we will never pressure you toward a choice that isn’t in your or the dog’s best interest.