Fetch FinderA brilliant, tireless herding dog. Aussies are loyal and fun, but need a job and plenty of exercise every day. Often called the smartest breed. Border Collies excel at training and sports but are a poor fit for a quiet lifestyle.
Side by side
| Australian Shepherd | Border Collie | |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Medium | Medium |
| Weight | 40–65 lb | 30–55 lb |
| Lifespan | 12–15 years | 12–15 years |
| Yearly cost (est.) | $1,500–$3,000 | $1,400–$2,800 |
| Family dog | Good family dog | Better with adults or older kids |
| Energy level | ||
| Shedding | ||
| Grooming needs | ||
| Apartment-friendly | ||
| Handles cold | ||
| Affectionate / cuddly | ||
| Good with kids | ||
| Good for first-time owners | ||
| Easy to train | ||
| Good with other dogs | ||
| Good with cats | ||
| OK being left alone | ||
| Reliable off-leash | ||
| Protective / watchdog | ||
| Barking | ||
| Drooling |
Which one should you choose?
Choose an Australian Shepherd if…
- you have young kids at home
- you'd like a bigger, sturdier dog
Choose a Border Collie if…
- you want less dog hair around the house
- you want easy coat care
- you want a dog you can trust off-leash
- you'd like a somewhat smaller, lighter dog
How they handle cold weather
Australian Shepherd: Medium double coat handles cold winters well.
Border Collie: Handles cold well; many love playing in snow.
Still deciding? Take the 3-minute quiz, or compare any breeds side by side.
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Medium · 40–65 lb👪 Good family dogAustralian ShepherdA brilliant, tireless herding dog. Aussies are loyal and fun, but need a job and plenty of exercise every day.
Medium · 30–55 lbBetter with adults or older kidsBorder CollieOften called the smartest breed. Border Collies excel at training and sports but are a poor fit for a quiet lifestyle.