January 23, 2026

Border Collie vs Australian Shepherd – Discover Their Differences

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Border collies and Australian shepherds are two of the most attractive dog breeds for those looking for a medium-to-large-sized dog that’s full of energy. They make great hiking companions, camping buddies, and running partners, in addition to being an excellent canine companion. It is typical for many people who are considering between the border collie and Australian shepherd to have difficulties picking one due to their shared similarities.

In this border collie vs Australian shepherd article, we will compare the characteristics of these two breeds so that you can determine which one is the most suitable dog for you.

Border Collie vs Australian Shepherd: Comparing 4 of Their Traits

Here are five of the main differences between border collies and Aussies.

Family Life

Both the border collie and Australian shepherd are fairly family-oriented dogs. They are equally great dogs for families with children and bond strongly with the small members of their families. Border collies and Australian shepherds also have the same drawbacks, such as the tendency to nibble at the heels of children due to their herding instincts.

If you can manage some of their herding instincts, both the border collie and the Australian shepherd can be great family dogs. However, Aussies are overall more easygoing than border collies, especially in larger families and households that have multiple dogs. The sociable side of the Aussie tends to be bigger than the border collie, making them adapt to their new homes faster.

Exact Size

Border collies and Australian shepherds are almost identical in terms of size, though Aussies can be slightly bigger than border collies. The height and weight ranges as described in their breed standards prove this, as border collies weigh between 30 and 55 pounds, whereas Australian shepherds can be up to 65 pounds.

However, note that there are also miniature versions of Australian shepherds. Even though these smaller varieties aren’t recognized by major kennel clubs, like the American Kennel Club, it allows those who have space limitations to get a smaller Aussie. These dogs, miniature Aussies, typically weigh between 25 and 35 pounds. Although mini border collies also exist, they are very rare in numbers.

Temperament

Since both border collies and Australian shepherds are herding dogs with endless energy, many think that they have the same temperament. While similar, there are unique personality traits of each breed that make them stand out in their own way. For example, Aussies are a lot more playful, whereas border collies are often completely work-oriented dogs that want to be busy with a task in their hand.

This difference also means that Aussies are a lot more easygoing and forgiving of a lack of exercise occasionally. If you skip one or two days out of a week to exercise them and substitute with indoor playtime, an Australian shepherd won’t be bothered much. A border collie, on the other hand, is a serious dog that requires daily physical exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy. If they don’t get enough exercise, collies can quickly develop behavioral issues.

Grooming Needs and Shedding

Border collies and Aussies have very similar coat types. They shed seasonally but not intensely for most parts of the year. They both benefit from brushing about two times a week, though brushing an Aussie more frequently may be recommended due to their wavy coat texture compared to the border collie’s straight coat. While managing shedding and brushing the coat multiple times may be demanding, neither of them requires haircuts, as breeds like poodles do.

Keep in mind that both the border collie and the Australian shepherd also have some basic grooming needs like nail trims, ear cleaning using an appropriate ear cleaning solution, and dental care (brushing their teeth). These are critical not only for their appearance but also for their overall health.

Border Collie vs Australian Shepherd: Which One You Should Get?

This border collie vs Australian shepherd article has summarized the differences between the two breeds. After carefully reading everything we’ve covered, you can have an idea of which dog breed is a better pick for you. However, note that the availability of these two distinct breeds also varies.

For example, you will have an easier time finding border collies for adoption compared to Australian shepherds due to the popularity of the border collie; for instance, this border collie adoption hub has lots of dogs available. Nonetheless, you won’t experience any major differences if you decide to work with a breeder to buy a border collie or an Aussie puppy. Take note of this if you intend to adopt rather than buy.