Collie (Rough) vs Irish Terrier

Herding · Large vs Terrier · Medium

Quick take
  • Collie (Rough) is the larger breed at 60–75 lbs (males) vs 27 lbs for the Irish Terrier.
  • The Irish Terrier typically lives longer (13–15 years).
  • The Irish Terrier sheds less.
  • The Collie (Rough) is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitCollie (Rough)Irish Terrier
Group
HerdingTerrier
Size
LargeMedium
Origin
ScotlandIreland
Height (male)
24–26"18"
Height (female)
22–24"18"
Weight (male)
60–75 lbs27 lbs
Weight (female)
50–65 lbs25 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–14 years13–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)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.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
High (4/5)Very Low (1/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
High (4/5)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
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
longwirehaired
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoYes
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About the Collie (Rough)

The Collie (Rough) is a devoted, graceful, proud Scottish herder — Lassie, the world's most famous fictional dog. Originally from Scotland, this large herding breed typically weighs 60–75 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as devoted, graceful, proud.

About the Irish Terrier

The Irish Terrier is a bold, dashing, tenderhearted Irish 'daredevil' — fiery red-coated farm dog and WWI message-runner. Originally from Ireland, this medium terrier breed typically weighs 27 lbs and lives 13–15 years. Breeders describe them as bold, dashing, tenderhearted.

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Collie (Rough) health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Collie eye anomaly
  • MDR1 gene mutation
  • Hip dysplasia

Irish Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Hyperkeratosis
  • Eye disorders