Border Collie vs Border Terrier
Herding · Medium vs Terrier · Small
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
Border TerrierSmall
An affectionate, intelligent, even-tempered fox-hunting terrier from the English-Scottish border.
Weight: 13–15.5 lbsLifespan: 12–15 years
Quick take
- • Border Collie is the larger breed at 30–55 lbs (males) vs 13–15.5 lbs for the Border Terrier.
- • The Border Collie has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Border Terrier sheds less.
- • The Border Collie is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Border Collie | Border Terrier |
|---|---|---|
Group | Herding | Terrier |
Size | Medium | Small |
Origin | Scotland | England |
Height (male) | 19–22" | 13–15" |
Height (female) | 18–21" | 13–15" |
Weight (male) | 30–55 lbs | 13–15.5 lbs |
Weight (female) | 30–55 lbs | 11.5–14 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–15 years | 12–15 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | High (4/5) | Low (2/5) |
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) | Very High (5/5) |
Good with other dogs | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with strangers | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | Low (2/5) | High (4/5) |
Coat length | medium | wirehaired |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | Yes |
Ad slot · compare-mid
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.
About the Border Terrier
The Border Terrier is an affectionate, intelligent, even-tempered fox-hunting terrier from the English-Scottish border. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 13–15.5 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, intelligent, even-tempered.
Ad slot · compare-bottom
Border Collie health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Epilepsy
- • Collie eye anomaly
- • MDR1 gene mutation
Border Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Patellar luxation
- • Heart problems