If the rugged border country of Scotland gave birth to the Border Collie, it was nearby Northumberland that refined the strain now admired across the world. In 1893, Adam Telfer, a farmer from Otterburn, bred two of his dogs, Roy and Meg, producing a remarkable pup named Old Hemp — the foundation sire of the modern Border Collie. Hemp’s intelligence, calm working style, and sheer ability made him legendary, and his descendants went on to define the breed as we know it today.

The Border Collie was later established in New Zealand and the United States, and though it had long been prized for its herding skill, it wasn’t until 1976 that the breed was officially recognised for show purposes in the United Kingdom. To this day, the Border Collie remains a true working dog — intelligent, energetic, and eager to please — while also excelling in obedience, agility, and companionship.