Bedlington Terrier vs Border Collie

Terrier · Small vs Herding · Medium

Quick take
  • Border Collie is the larger breed at 30–55 lbs (males) vs 17–23 lbs for the Bedlington Terrier.
  • The Border Collie has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Bedlington Terrier sheds less.
  • The Border Collie is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBedlington TerrierBorder Collie
Group
TerrierHerding
Size
SmallMedium
Origin
EnglandScotland
Height (male)
16–17.5"19–22"
Height (female)
15–16.5"18–21"
Weight (male)
17–23 lbs30–55 lbs
Weight (female)
17–23 lbs30–55 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
11–16 years12–15 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.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very Low (1/5)High (4/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
High (4/5)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
wirehairedmedium
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesNo
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About the Bedlington Terrier

The Bedlington Terrier is a spirited, demonstrative, mild lamb-shaped terrier — looks like a sheep, fights like a tiger. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 17–23 lbs and lives 11–16 years. Breeders describe them as spirited, demonstrative, mild.

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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Bedlington Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Copper toxicosis
  • Eye disorders
  • Patellar luxation

Border Collie health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

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