Border Collie vs Saluki

Herding · Medium vs Hound · Large

Quick take
  • Saluki is the larger breed at 40–65 lbs (males) vs 30–55 lbs for the Border Collie.
  • The Border Collie has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Saluki sheds less.
  • The Border Collie is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBorder CollieSaluki
Group
HerdingHound
Size
MediumLarge
Origin
ScotlandEgypt
Height (male)
19–22"23–28"
Height (female)
18–21"23–28"
Weight (male)
30–55 lbs40–65 lbs
Weight (female)
30–55 lbs40–65 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 years10–17 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
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)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Very Low (1/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
mediummedium
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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 Saluki

The Saluki is a graceful, dignified, gentle Persian sighthound — one of the world's oldest breeds, depicted on Egyptian tombs. Originally from Egypt, this large hound breed typically weighs 40–65 lbs and lives 10–17 years. Breeders describe them as graceful, dignified, gentle.

Ad slot · compare-bottom

Border Collie health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

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

Saluki health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Heart disease
  • Cancer
  • Anesthesia sensitivity