The Border Collie is descended from driving and gathering breeds originating on the Scottish and English border. Mention of the "Collie" or "Colley" type first appeared toward the end of the nineteenth century.

Border Collies excel at several dog sports in addition to their success in herding trials. They dominate the higher jump heights at dog agility competitions, so much so that in England competitions often include classes for ABC dogs, "Anything But Collies".

Border Collies have a highly developed sense of smell and with their high drive make excellent and easily motivated tracking dogs for Tracking trials.The Border Collie is a breed of herding dog that originated in the border country of England and Scotland. They are widely regarded as the most intelligent dog breed. They are still frequently used on farms all over the world for assisting with the handling of livestock.Though known to be reserved with strangers, these dogs can also be protective of a human family member and affectionate to those they know.