Border Terrier vs Border Collie: 5 Key Differences

While these two dog breeds may share a common name, there are a great deal of differences between the border terrier vs border collie. But what might some of these differences be, and what do these two dog breeds have in common with one another? That is what we will endeavor to answer in this article today. 

We will address the distinct appearances of the border terrier and border collie so that you can learn how to tell them apart upon first glance. We will also discuss their ancestry and behavioral differences, as well as the life spans of these two strong and sturdy dogs. Let’s get started and learn all about border terriers and border collies now! 

Comparing Border Terrier vs Border Collie

Key Differences Between Border Terrier vs Border Collie

There are many key differences between border terriers and border collies. The border terrier is much smaller in both height and weight compared to the medium sized border collie. In addition, the border collie has long and silky fur compared to the coarse and short coat of the border terrier. Finally, border collies were originally bred for herding and hunting, while border terriers were only bred for hunting alongside other dogs. 

Let’s go over all of these differences in more detail now. 

Border Terrier vs Border Collie: Size

You can easily tell the difference between a border collie and a border terrier based on their sizes alone. The border collie is a medium size dog, while the border terrier is a small size dog. For example, border terriers average anywhere from 10 to 15 pounds, while border collies average 25 to 45 pounds, making them significantly larger than border terriers. 

This also means that border terriers are not nearly as tall as border collies are. The average border terrier measures 12-14 inches tall, while the average border collie measures double that amount, at 22-27 inches tall. That’s significant, especially looking at these two dogs side by side!

Border Terrier vs Border Collie: Appearance

The border collie and the border terrier have very different coats and physical appearances. For example, the border collie has a medium to long-length silky coat, while the border terrier has a short and coarse coat. The border terrier also has whiskering or longer fur around its mouth, while border collies have long fur around their ears.

There are differences in the coat colors of both of these dogs as well. The border collie is only found in white, black, red, and brown, while the border terrier is primarily found in brown, but can be found in other colors as well. Finally, the body shape of the border collie is much longer and more graceful compared to the compact and otter-like body of the border terrier.

Border Terrier vs Border Collie: Ancestry and Breeding

Both the border terrier and the border collie originated in the same location: along the border of England and Scotland. However, border terriers were originally bred to hunt game alongside other dogs, while border collies were bred for hunting on their own. Nowadays, border collies are used primarily in herding or farm work, while border terriers were never bred for this purpose.

Border Terrier vs Border Collie: Behavior

There are some significant behavioral differences between the border terrier and the border collie. Given the fact that the border collie is the smartest dog breed in the world, they are indeed more intelligent than the border terrier. However, both of these dogs are eager to please and easy to train with consistent commands.

The border terrier is extremely focused and kind, while the border collie has a bit more of a mischievous and energetic side. Speaking of energy, both of these breeds need ample amounts of exercise, lest they succumb to separation anxiety and destructive behavior. However, both border terriers and border collies do well with children and families.

Border Terrier vs Border Collie: Lifespan

The final difference between border terriers and border collies is their lifespan. The average border terrier lives slightly longer than the average border collie, though both breeds are incredibly healthy. It is the size difference between these two that leads to the border terrier having a slightly longer lifespan.

For example, border collies live an average of 12-15 years, while the border terrier lives anywhere from 13-16 years. These dogs are very healthy when given a well-rounded diet and plenty of exercise. The border terrier also thrives amongst other dogs, while border collies enjoy their independence. This is something to consider when thinking about adopting either of these two fantastic breeds!

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