Country/Date of Origin: Great Britain/1700s
The early history of England's working stock dog is obscure. It is known that they were in present form by the 18th century. This is a breed that is first and foremost a working animal. Although a pet in Victorian England, most of the bloodlines were selectively bred for herding abilities and intelligence rather than looks. In the sheep-raising countries of Australia and New Zealand the breed reigns supreme in both numbers and prestige. In 1995, the Border Collie was accepted for registry in the American Kennel Club stud books.