Australian Shepherd vs Border Collie – 6 Important Facts
Last Updated on February 26, 2024
Have you ever compared the difference between an Australian Shepherd and a Border Collie? Australian Shepherd vs Border Collie are the two most energetic dog breeds that are top choices for active people. Originating from different countries, the Australian Shepherd and the Border Collie have a similar appearance and are used initially for herding farm animals.
Both dog breeds have great energy, are easy to train, and are intelligent, social, and playful. Do you have any confusion between Border Collie vs Australian Shepherd?
We will help you with the difference between these two dog breeds by looking at their personality, skills, herding styles, and other essential aspects.
Table of Contents
Australian Shepherd vs Border Collie
Australian Shepherds are very intelligent and witty dog breeds. Their energy levels and muscular agility in sports are fascinating and delightful.
Australian Shepherd can be your best companion in your house and on your herding. Australian Shepherds are good working dogs who can finish all their assigned tasks without much effort.
Border Collie is a medium-sized dog breed that can be highly hard-working and loyal forever. Border Collie is knowledgeable, has great sense and energy, and has an athletically appealing body.
Border Collie dogs are highly enthusiastic while performing their work duties or playing on the field, and they remain rested or idle only when their duty is done or when it’s time for cuddling.
| Australian Shepherd vs Border Collie | ||
| Features | Australian Shepherd | Border Collie |
| Height | 18-21 inches tall | 18-21 inches tall |
| Weight | 40-65 pounds | 30-55 pounds |
| Coat Colours | Only four colours | Many colours |
| Commonly blue merle | Commonly black and white | |
| Energy | High-energy levels | High-energy levels |
| Lifespan | 12-15 years | 12-15 years |
| Price | $700 and up | $700 and up |
Australian Shepherd vs Border Collie History
Having a name Australian Shepherd doesn’t originate from Australia; they are purebred from the United States and primarily bred for herding livestock and animals in the western united states. Some theories claim that Australian shepherds can be descended from the Collie or other shepherd-like dogs who immigrated to the United States from Australia.
Originating from the sheepdogs in Britain, The Border Collie dog breed is named as they were developed on the border of Scotland and England. During Queen Victoria in 1800, the Border Collie dog breed became famous and later served as the predominant sheep herding breed around the globe.
Border Collie Vs Australian Shepherd Personality
| Traits | Australian Shepherds | Border Collies |
|---|---|---|
| Personality | Friendly, outgoing, affectionate | Highly focused, intense, dedicated |
| Energy Level | High, but slightly lower than Border Collies | Very high, demands constant mental and physical stimulation |
| Adaptability | Well-adapted to various environments, including apartments | Thrives in environments with ample space and opportunities for work |
Border Collie vs Australian Shepherd intelligence isn’t very similar. Australian Shepherd dogs are known for their extraordinary personality. They are very good-natured and active dogs. The Australian Shepherd dog breed is famous for its love and affection towards its owners. Australian Shepherds being around their loved ones.
Australian Shepherds have high intelligence levels that are undoubtedly good enough to guard the entire family.
Border Collie dogs have great personalities and are highly energetic dogs that are easier to teach and train. They are always on high alert and smartly tackle challenging situations with ease.
Border Collies always like to be busy, take all activities with pleasure and complete any given task on time without any error; if you expect them to be idle, their energetic nature makes them feel bored.
Australian Shepherd vs Border Collie Appearance
The coats and colours of Australian Shepherds and Border Collies can be very similar. Border collies have a thinner and more lightweight coat compared to Australian Shepherds. However, Border Collies have more coat colour types than Australian Shepherds.
Both the Australian Shepherd border collie come in multiple colours, brown and blue eyes. At the same time, Australian shepherds can also be seen with bi-coloured and marbled eyes.
Australian Shepherd vs Border Collie size
Australian Shepherds have solid muscles and are tall-looking. Australian Shepherd males can be around 20 to 23 inches at the shoulder level, and Australian Shepherd females can be around 18 to 21 inches at the shoulder level.
The male Australian Shepherd dog can weigh between 50 to 65 pounds, and the female Australian Shepherd can weigh around 40 to 55 pounds. Check this article to learn.
Check this article to learn How Big Does an Australian Shepherd?
Meanwhile, Border Collie is a fair and medium-sized dog breed. Border Collie males can be around 19 to 22 inches at the shoulder level, and Border Collie females can be around 18 to 21 inches at the shoulder level.
The Border Collie male and female dogs can weigh between 3 to 40 pounds and are suitable anywhere, regardless of room size.
Australian Shepherd vs Border Collie General Care
| Care and Training | Australian Shepherds | Border Collies |
|---|---|---|
| Exercise | Requires daily exercise and mental stimulation, adaptable | Demands constant physical and mental activity, less adaptable |
| Training | Responds well to positive reinforcement methods | Excellent in obedience and agility training, eager to please |
| Socialisation | Early socialisation is crucial to prevent reactivity | Early socialisation is essential for channeling energy and instincts |
Australian Shepherd dogs need high exercise; make sure to take them outside with you for a walk and play with them as much as you can so that they can stretch their muscles and keep their body in control. If needed, take your Australian Shepherd to the behaviour classes at an earlier stage so that they can learn to understand your commands clearly.
Border Collies are very playful dogs who love to spend their time outside. So, take your Border Collie to the parks and enjoy the bliss moments by playing with them.
Border Collie loves to have adventures filled around them. Their high temperament can go into danger, so fencing is compulsory to prevent them from any accidental damage.
Australian Shepherd vs Border Collie Health
Compared to any other Dog breed, Australian Shepherd has proper health conditions, and they don’t get sick more often. But in most cases, the chances of inheriting the diseases from their parents. So, it is essential to check with the breeders about the parent Australian Shepherd’s health condition while buying or adopting a puppy.
Australian Shepherds are known for some diseases if you don’t properly care for them, like Hip & Elbow dysplasia, Epilepsy, Deafness, Osteochondritis, Dissecans, Progressive Retinal Atrophy, Cataracts and Hypothyroidism.
Border Collie dogs generally maintain their health very well. You need to give them proper food and exercise to keep them away from stress and aggressive behaviour. Border Collies can also inherit diseases from their parents. So, make sure to examine the puppy as well as his parent’s health condition.
Diseases like Hip Dysplasia, Osteochondrosis, Epilepsy, and Collie Eye Anomaly might make your Border Collie dog worse.
Which Breed is Right for You?
Ultimately, the choice between an Australian Shepherd and a Border Collie boils down to your lifestyle and preferences:
If you:
- Have an active lifestyle with opportunities for daily exercise and mental stimulation.
- Seek a playful, affectionate companion with moderate energy levels.
- Are willing to invest time and patience in training.
- Then an Australian Shepherd might be a great fit.
If you:
- Demand an intensely focused, driven working partner for agility or herding.
- It can provide endless mental and physical challenges to match their boundless energy.
- Have experience with high-energy dog breeds and prioritize consistent training.
- Then, a Border Collie might be your ideal match.
Every dog is an individual, and personality variations can exist within each breed. Visiting responsible breeders or shelters and spending time with individual dogs is crucial before deciding.
Beyond the Basics: Diving Deeper into Australian Shepherds vs Border Collies
While the previous sections covered the core differences between these two incredible breeds, here’s a deeper dive into specific aspects that might influence your decision:
Working:
- Herding: If you actively herd livestock, understand that Australian Shepherds often handle more prominent groups, while Border Collies excel with individual animals. Observe their herding styles to see which aligns best with your needs.
- Dog Sports: Both breeds shine in agility, obedience, and tracking. However, Border Collies might have a slight edge in competitive settings due to their intense focus and drive.
Family Life:
- Children: Both breeds can be fantastic companions for children, but early socialisation and supervision are crucial. Australian Shepherds’ gentle nature might suit younger children, while Border Collies’ high energy might suit older, active kids.
- Other Pets: Both breeds can adapt to multi-pet households, but proper introductions and socialisation are essential. Consider their personalities and potential prey drive when making introductions.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Australian Shepherds and Border Collies are remarkable breeds with unique characteristics and traits that make them well-suited for specific lifestyles and environments. While they share similarities in intelligence, loyalty, and energy levels, they also have distinct differences in temperament, appearance, and working styles that potential owners should consider when choosing the right breed for their needs.
Ultimately, the decision between an Australian Shepherd and a Border Collie depends on various factors, including the owner’s lifestyle, activity level, dog experience, and preferences. Both breeds require dedicated care, training, and attention to thrive, but the rewards of owning a well-trained and well-socialised Australian Shepherd or Border Collie are immeasurable.