Border Collie vs Bouvier des Flandres

Herding · Medium vs Herding · Large

Quick take
  • Bouvier des Flandres is the larger breed at 70–110 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 Bouvier des Flandres sheds less.
  • The Border Collie is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBorder CollieBouvier des Flandres
Group
HerdingHerding
Size
MediumLarge
Origin
ScotlandBelgium
Height (male)
19–22"24.5–27.5"
Height (female)
18–21"23.5–26.5"
Weight (male)
30–55 lbs70–110 lbs
Weight (female)
30–55 lbs70–110 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 years10–12 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)Very High (5/5)
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)High (4/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Moderate (3/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
mediumlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoYes
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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 Bouvier des Flandres

The Bouvier des Flandres is a courageous, strong-willed, devoted Belgian cattle drover — bearded farm guardian and WWI ambulance dog. Originally from Belgium, this large herding breed typically weighs 70–110 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as courageous, strong-willed, devoted.

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Border Collie health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

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

Bouvier des Flandres health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Bloat