Belgian Tervuren vs Border Collie

Herding · Large vs Herding · Medium

Quick take
  • Belgian Tervuren is the larger breed at 55–75 lbs (males) vs 30–55 lbs for the Border Collie.
  • The Border Collie typically lives longer (12–15 years).

Side-by-side traits

TraitBelgian TervurenBorder Collie
Group
HerdingHerding
Size
LargeMedium
Origin
BelgiumScotland
Height (male)
24–26"19–22"
Height (female)
22–24"18–21"
Weight (male)
55–75 lbs30–55 lbs
Weight (female)
45–60 lbs30–55 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–14 years12–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
High (4/5)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
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Coat length
longmedium
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Belgian Tervuren

The Belgian Tervuren is a courageous, smart, alert Belgian shepherd — long-haired cousin of the Malinois with rich mahogany coat. Originally from Belgium, this large herding breed typically weighs 55–75 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as courageous, smart, alert.

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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Belgian Tervuren health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Epilepsy
  • Eye disorders

Border Collie health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

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