Breed comparison
Australian Shepherd vs Border Collie
Side-by-side comparison to help you decide which breed fits your lifestyle.
Size
medium (40-65 lbs)
medium (30-55 lbs)
Life expectancy
12-15 yrs
12-15 yrs
Activity
very high
very high
Grooming
high
moderate
Coat
double
double
Temperament
smart, work-oriented, exuberant, loyal
affectionate, smart, energetic, focused
First-year cost
$3,305-$7,240
$3,005-$6,440
Ongoing annual
$2,510-$5,480
$2,210-$4,680
Health comparison
Shared concerns
hip dysplasiaepilepsyCollie Eye AnomalyMDR1 drug sensitivityprogressive retinal atrophy
Australian Shepherd specific
cataracts
Border Collie specific
deafness
Cost comparison
Australian Shepherd
$3,305-$7,240year one
Food: $1,450-$2,400
Vet: $660-$1,400
Grooming: $400-$1,200
Gear: $320-$460
Border Collie
$3,005-$6,440year one
Food: $1,450-$2,400
Vet: $660-$1,400
Grooming: $100-$400
Gear: $320-$460
Which breed is right for you?
Consider a Australian Shepherd if:
- •You're very active and want a dog that keeps up
- •You're willing to invest in regular grooming
- •You want a longer-lived breed (12-15 yrs)
- •You want a deeply loyal, bonded companion
Consider a Border Collie if:
- •You're very active and want a dog that keeps up
- •You want a longer-lived breed (12-15 yrs)
- •You want a deeply loyal, bonded companion
- •You enjoy training and mental challenges with your dog
Common symptoms to watch
Full Australian Shepherd guide →
Food, supplements, gear, training
Full Border Collie guide →
Food, supplements, gear, training