Breed Types, from Kelly Whiteman, Bonnidune

Northumbrian

Almost all present-day Border Collies can trace their pedigrees back to a dog known as Old Hemp.  Hemp was born in 1894, bred and owned by Adam Telfer, who lived in the Northumbrian region of England.  Hemp was a cross between a very strong-eyed, black bitch with a reticent temperament and a black and white tri-colored dog with loose eye and a good natured, outgoing temperament.  Hemp was a powerful, keen worker who sired over 200 puppies.  Physically, Hemp was the epitome of the Northumbrian type:  medium-sized with a rough coat and very little white trim. A monument to Old Hemp and Adam Telfer his owner resides in Northumbria. ​

Winston Cap

This type developed from J.M. Wilson’s dog, Cap, through Jock Richardson’s outstanding trial and stud dog, Wiston Cap.  Also rough coated, these dogs tend to be larger, with big, blocky heads and much more white trim – collars, chests, forelegs, etc.  They typically have tremendous natural outruns and biddable natures.

Nap

​Of the four types of Border Collies, the Nap Type is the only smooth coated one.  The name comes from a dog called Whitehope Nap.  These dogs are strong, fast and powerful.  Their coat is short, but has an undercoat to act as insulation from cold or heat. Many have longer legs and shorter bodies, making their outline more square than the other types.  Because of their short coats, speed, and power, many Americans used them to work cattle on large ranches in the Southwest.

Herdman's Tommy

The last type is named after a Hemp grandson, Herdman’s Tommy.  Three of the four main breeding lines to Hemp go back through Tommy.  Physically, Tommy was a medium-sized dog with a lot of bone.  His rough coat was black and white with tan markings.  This type is known for their good nature, power and strong-headedness.

Wilson's Cap

Wilson's 'Cap'......nope..not the same as Wiston's Cap. Wilson's Cap is (possibly) the most important Border Collie that EVER lived!...Yes, Old Hemp was the original proginator of the Border Collie...but, you may not be aware...That the Dog you're looking at in this photo...almost certainly saved the Breed from extinction...at a 'really rough time' for the Breed!...He sired upwards of 150 Puppies....yes, many of your collies can trace their genes back to old hemp...and even more can be traced back to Wilson's 'Cap'. His name is quite fitting isn't it?... If you're wearing a cap...I suggest you 'Tip It' to this Collie...as the dog that sits at your feet...is almost certainly here...because of him!