Compare breeds
Australian Shepherd vs Border Collie
Australian Shepherd
Medium
Border Collie
Medium
Choose the Australian Shepherd if you want…
- a family with children
Choose the Border Collie if you want…
Much the same on our scales — meet both and see which personality suits you.
Side by side
| Trait | Australian Shepherd | Border Collie |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Medium | Medium |
| Weight | 16–32 kg (35–71 lb) | 12–20 kg (26–44 lb) |
| Height | 46–58 cm (18–23 in) | 46–56 cm (18–22 in) |
| Life span | 12–15 years | 12–15 years |
| Origin | United States | Scotland and England |
| Energy | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| Trainability | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| Good with children | 4/5 | 3/5 |
| Good with other pets | 3/5 | 3/5 |
| Suits a flat | 1/5 | 1/5 |
| Shedding | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| Grooming needs | 3/5 | 3/5 |
| Barking / vocal | 3/5 | 3/5 |
Quick answers
Which is bigger, the Australian Shepherd or the Border Collie?
The Australian Shepherd — typically about 1.5 times the weight. Australian Shepherd: 16–32 kg (35–71 lb); Border Collie: 12–20 kg (26–44 lb).
Which lives longer, the Australian Shepherd or the Border Collie?
Their typical life spans are about the same. Australian Shepherd: 12–15 years; Border Collie: 12–15 years.
Is the Australian Shepherd or the Border Collie better with children?
The Australian Shepherd scores higher in our profiles (4 vs 3 out of 5). Always supervise young children with any pet.
Other comparisons
Tailwise is for general information and is reviewed by veterinary professionals, but it is not a substitute for advice from your own vet, who knows your pet. How we check facts