Anatolian Shepherd vs Border Collie

Working · Giant vs Herding · Medium

Quick take
  • Anatolian Shepherd is the larger breed at 110–150 lbs (males) vs 30–55 lbs for the Border Collie.
  • The Border Collie typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Border Collie has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Border Collie is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAnatolian ShepherdBorder Collie
Group
WorkingHerding
Size
GiantMedium
Origin
TurkeyScotland
Height (male)
29"19–22"
Height (female)
27"18–21"
Weight (male)
110–150 lbs30–55 lbs
Weight (female)
80–120 lbs30–55 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
11–13 years12–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Coat length
mediummedium
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
Ad slot · compare-mid

About the Anatolian Shepherd

The Anatolian Shepherd is a loyal, independent, reserved livestock guardian from Turkey — works alone protecting flocks from wolves. Originally from Turkey, this giant working breed typically weighs 110–150 lbs and lives 11–13 years. Breeders describe them as loyal, independent, reserved.

About the Border Collie

The Border Collie is the world's premier sheep herder and the most intelligent dog breed — a workaholic that needs a purpose. Originally from Scotland, this medium herding breed typically weighs 30–55 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, smart, energetic.

Ad slot · compare-bottom

Anatolian Shepherd health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Bloat

Border Collie health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Epilepsy
  • Collie eye anomaly
  • MDR1 gene mutation