Differences Between Border Collies and Australian Shepherds

Despite being known as the definitive Aussie dog, we know the Australian Shepherd began in the United States during the 19th century as a livestock herding dog. There is dispute about its exact origins. Some believe them to be a cross between Border Collies and other Shepherd-type dogs. What is likely is that the dogs were taken originally from Europe and passed by Australia on their way to America.

The origin of the Border Collie is also not exactly known, although there is some documentation regarding specific dogs which helped establish the breed as we currently know it. Another reason it is difficult to tell the difference between Border Collies and Australian Shepherds is the fact that they share similar ancestry. It is possible they both came from dogs in the Basque region of Spain.

However, it is not true that Australian Shepherds are descended from Border Collies. What is most likely is that the two herding dog breeds were developed concurrently in different areas.

Although they are both medium sized dogs, with a medium-longhair and smooth coat, there are more physical traits that can help us distinguish these breeds. Border Collies have more possible color combinations than the Australian Shepherd when it comes to their coat. Let's take a look at the colors each breed can have:

Border Collies

• Black and white
• Mottled
• Blue merle
• Red merle
• Sable/white
• Blue/White
• Red/white
• Chocolate/white

Australian Shepherds

• Merle
• Black
• Blue merle
• Red tricolor
• Black
• Red

As you can see, there are some coat colors which Border Collies have and Australian Shepherds do not. However, it is difficult to tell the difference between the two breeds on color alone. Another trait you can use to tell Border Collies and Australian Shepherds apart is the type and texture of their coat.

The Border Collie's coat is denser and rougher than that of the Australian Shepherd. Moreover, Australian Shepherds are more prone to heterochromia, which means they have different colored eyes or two different colors in the same eye. However, Border Collies with the merle gene can also have heterochromia.

Although they are both medium-sized dogs, the Australian Shepherd is heavier and larger in stature than the Border Collie.

Adult Border Collies weigh around 23 kg (50.7 lbs) and are between 46 to 58 cm (18 to 22") in height. On the other hand, an average fully-grown Australian Shepherd will be between 50 to 54 cm (20 to 23") tall and will weigh 25 to 30 kg (55 to 66 lbs).

As you can see, the Australian Shepherd tends to be a little heavier than the Border Collies, even when they are of approximately the same height. Although difficult to tell without scales, a heavier-set dog will imply they are an Australian Shepherd, although both breeds are lithe and sprightly.

The Australian Shepherd is a wonderful guard dog which barks and alerts their owners when intruders arrive. This is perfect for those who need a dog to protect their human companions, defend against attackers and protect those they consider family. On the other hand, the Border Collie is a slightly less watchful guard dog. They are equally alert, as they are known to bark and raise an alarm when attackers approach.

Whether you choose the Australian Shepherd or the Border Collie, they make for loyal, affectionate and caring pets. That is another similarity these two sheepdogs have in common.

The Border Collie is shyer than the Aussie Shepherd, but they are both energetic and hard workers. Their approach to herding is slightly different. While the Border Collie works from a distance, the Australian Shepherd is great for herding cattle up close. Both breeds have been developed for different purposes on the ranch and this reflects in their temperaments.Not suited to apartment life, both breeds need vast, open spaces to roam.

Here's where the character similarities between the two breeds end. The Australian Shepherd is more difficult for those who have not handled dogs before. The Border Collie is potentially more suited for those with less experience, but they will still need more stimulation than the average dog.

Life expectancy of the Australian Shepherd is also slightly higher than that of the Border Collie, as the Aussie breed can live up to 15 years old on average. The Collie's life expectancy is around 12 years of life.

One of the major differences between Australian Shepherds and Border Collies is their intelligence. They are both very clever dogs, but a study by the psychologist Stanley Coren puts the Border Collie in the first position as the most intelligent dog in the world. The Australian Shepherd is at number 42, meaning it is considered a dog of ‘average working and obedience intelligence’^[1].

While the Australian Shepherd requires grooming on a regular basis to keep their fur in excellent shape, trimming or stripping is not often required. The Border Collie's care requires a little more hard work to keep their fur healthy and vibrant, as it is usually rougher. Routine brushing is suited for both dogs. When it comes to maintenance, both these farm dogs require a medium to high amount of care.

For grooming their nails, it will depend on how often they walk on hard surfaces. Since many Border Collies and Australian Shepherds are used in fields, they both may need nails clipped around once a month. We should also brush their teeth at least once a week to help them stay strong. There is no significant difference between the two breeds in relation to nail clipping and teeth brushing.

Since both breeds are very energetic and need plenty of time outside, we need to be careful to check for parasites and injuries. Ticks, foxtails, wounds and other injuries can occur. Since the male Australian Shepherd's coat is a little more dense around the throat and tail areas, we need to be particularly careful to check them.

In terms of training for ranch and farm activities, the Australian Shepherd is considered average. Results will come on a more gradual basis. The Border Collie, on the other hand, has been associated with excellent training results. Few repetitions are needed while training this dog for herding, guarding the farm and other activities. The Border Collie listens attentively to commands and is extremely obedient and caring.

The Australian Shepherd can be quite a pushy dog. If they are not properly socialized and educated, they can become a little overbearing. However, the Border Collie tends to be a little shier. If they are not properly socialized, they can become very timid.

As you can see, it is very difficult to compare the Border Collie and the Australian Shepherd. They are very similar in both appearance and character. The main differences between the to breeds are:

• The Australian Shepherd is a little heavier and more robust than the Border Collie, despite the fact they are around the same height at the withers.
• Both dog breeds have similar coat patterns, but the Border Collie has more variety.
• The Border Collie tends to be a little more timid than the Australian Shepherd, the latter being a little more pushy.
• Although both very clever, the Border Collie's intelligent is considered to be the best among all dog species.

What we do know is that neither dog is ideal for a first-time owner. These dogs need lots of stimulation and engagement, so they are not good for sedentary families either.

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