Compare breeds
Border Collie vs Rottweiler
Border Collie
Medium
Rottweiler
Short
Choose the Border Collie if you want…
- a home with other pets
- a dog or cat that learns quickly
- an active companion for long walks and play
Choose the Rottweiler if you want…
- less hair around the house
- less time spent grooming
- a quieter companion
- a calmer companion
Side by side
| Trait | Border Collie | Rottweiler |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Medium | Large |
| Weight | 12–20 kg (26–44 lb) | 35–60 kg (77–132 lb) |
| Height | 46–56 cm (18–22 in) | 56–69 cm (22–27 in) |
| Life span | 12–15 years | 9–10 years |
| Origin | Scotland and England | Germany |
| Energy | 5/5 | 4/5 |
| Trainability | 5/5 | 4/5 |
| Good with children | 3/5 | 3/5 |
| Good with other pets | 3/5 | 2/5 |
| Suits a flat | 1/5 | 1/5 |
| Shedding | 4/5 | 3/5 |
| Grooming needs | 3/5 | 1/5 |
| Barking / vocal | 3/5 | 2/5 |
Quick answers
Which is bigger, the Border Collie or the Rottweiler?
The Rottweiler — typically about 3.0 times the weight. Border Collie: 12–20 kg (26–44 lb); Rottweiler: 35–60 kg (77–132 lb).
Which lives longer, the Border Collie or the Rottweiler?
The Border Collie, on average. Border Collie: 12–15 years; Rottweiler: 9–10 years.
Is the Border Collie or the Rottweiler better with children?
We rate them the same. Both still need supervision with young children.
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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