Border Collie vs Cockapoo

Herding · Medium vs Miscellaneous · Small

Quick take
  • Border Collie is the larger breed at 30–55 lbs (males) vs 12–24 lbs for the Cockapoo.
  • The Cockapoo typically lives longer (13–16 years).
  • The Border Collie has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Cockapoo sheds less.
  • The Border Collie is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBorder CollieCockapoo
Group
HerdingMiscellaneous
Size
MediumSmall
Origin
ScotlandUSA
Height (male)
19–22"10–15"
Height (female)
18–21"10–15"
Weight (male)
30–55 lbs12–24 lbs
Weight (female)
30–55 lbs12–24 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 years13–16 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)Moderate (3/5)
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)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
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)Very High (5/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Low (2/5)Very High (5/5)
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 Cockapoo

The Cockapoo is a people-loving, intelligent, low-shed Cocker Spaniel × Poodle hybrid — smaller doodle, apartment-sized. Originally from USA, this small miscellaneous breed typically weighs 12–24 lbs and lives 13–16 years. Breeders describe them as people-loving, intelligent, easygoing.

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Border Collie health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

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

Cockapoo health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Ear infections
  • Eye disorders
  • Hip dysplasia