Border Collie vs. Australian Shepherd: Comparing Herding Breeds

The Border Collie originated in the border region of Scotland and England and was bred as a sheep-herding dog, known for its intense stare and stealthy, precise herding style.

The Australian Shepherd, despite its name, was developed in the western United States (in the 19th century) and was bred by ranchers to herd livestock on ranches.

Both the Border Collie and Australian Shepherd are recognized by the American Kennel Club as members of the Herding Group.

These working dogs are known for their strong herding instincts and are often seen in dog sports like flyball, obedience and agility.

The Border Collie typically has a leaner, more athletic build and comes in two coat varieties: a smooth coat (shorter fur) or a rough coat (medium to long fur).

The Australian Shepherd has a stocky build, is more muscular and usually comes in coat colors such as blue merle, red merle, solid black or solid red — often with copper (tan) points and/or white markings as trim.

For both breeds, coats should be brushed regularly to prevent matting and manage shedding.

Both breeds are extremely energetic, and their high energy means they require:

Border Collies tend to be extremely intense and focused; their herding style is characterized by a fixed, hard stare (“strong eye”) and a low stalking posture, allowing very precise control of livestock.

Australian Shepherds are generally more playful and outgoing, and they herd sheep with a looser, more upright style — often driving stock with less reliance on the intense stare (sometimes using a bit of barking instead).

Aussie Sheperhds may not be the best choice for those without time for physical exercise and mental stimulation. Without this, they may develop destructive behaviors.

Both Australian Shepherds and Border Collies can do well in families with children — particularly with older kids, and even with younger children if the dogs are well-socialized and trained from an early age (to curb any herding-nip behavior).

Australian Shepherds tend to be more outgoing and, with proper early socialization, they usually adapt well to homes with other dogs or even cats.

Both dog breeds need owners who can offer plenty of structure, regular training and mental engagement. Without this guidance and activity, their high intelligence and energy can become challenging.

Hip dysplasia (and to a lesser extent elbow dysplasia) is a known hereditary issue that can affect both Border Collies and Australian Shepherds, so responsible breeders screen for these conditions.

Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA) is an inherited eye disorder seen in collie breeds (including Border Collies), and is a particular genetic concern in those breeds.

Regular veterinary check-ups and obtaining a puppy from a reputable breeder who health-tests their breeding dogs (e.g. for hips, eyes, etc.) can help reduce the risk of serious health problems.

Both of these breeds truly thrive in active households. They do best with owners who can provide lots of outdoor exercise and activities.

Neither dog breed is ideal for apartments unless daily exercise and engagement are prioritized. Their life expectancy ranges from 12 to 15 years with proper care.

When comparing the Border Collie and Australian Shepherd, remember:

Both are good dogs with the potential to shine in the right environment. With proper training and time, either can be a standout companion in the herding dogs category.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.