Australian Terrier vs Border Collie
Terrier · Small vs Herding · Medium
Australian TerrierSmall
A spirited, alert, courageous Australian outback ratter — the first breed developed Down Under.
Weight: 15–20 lbsLifespan: 11–15 years
Border CollieMedium
The world's premier sheep herder and the most intelligent dog breed — a workaholic that needs a purpose.
Weight: 30–55 lbsLifespan: 12–15 years
Quick take
- • Border Collie is the larger breed at 30–55 lbs (males) vs 15–20 lbs for the Australian Terrier.
- • The Border Collie typically lives longer (12–15 years).
- • The Border Collie has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Australian Terrier sheds less.
- • The Border Collie is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Australian Terrier | Border Collie |
|---|---|---|
Group | Terrier | Herding |
Size | Small | Medium |
Origin | Australia | Scotland |
Height (male) | 10–11" | 19–22" |
Height (female) | 10–11" | 18–21" |
Weight (male) | 15–20 lbs | 30–55 lbs |
Weight (female) | 15–20 lbs | 30–55 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 11–15 years | 12–15 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | High (4/5) | 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. | Low (2/5) | High (4/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with kids | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with other dogs | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with strangers | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | High (4/5) | Low (2/5) |
Coat length | wirehaired | medium |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | Yes | No |
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About the Australian Terrier
The Australian Terrier is a spirited, alert, courageous Australian outback ratter — the first breed developed Down Under. Originally from Australia, this small terrier breed typically weighs 15–20 lbs and lives 11–15 years. Breeders describe them as spirited, alert, courageous.
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.
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Australian Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Patellar luxation
- • Diabetes
- • Allergies
Border Collie health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Epilepsy
- • Collie eye anomaly
- • MDR1 gene mutation