Collie vs Border Collie: What Are 8 Key Differences?

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Are you unsure of the distinction between a Collie vs Border Collie? They are, in fact, two distinct breeds of dogs. The Collie, often referred to as the “Rough” Collie, is the breed featured on the popular television show “Lassie,” but the Border Collie is a smaller heeler dog. Is size, however, the sole difference between these two dogs?

In this article, we’ll go through eight distinctions between the Collie and the Border Collie in terms of appearance, personality, and health.

Collie vs Border Collie: A Comparison 

Key Differences Between Collie And Border Collie

There are many key differences between Collies and Border Collies. The Rough Collie is a medium-to-large-sized herding dog breed that originated in Scotland, while Border Collies are a working and herding dog breed that originated in the United States. When these dogs are observed closely, their differences grow considerably more noticeable. Let’s look.

Appearance

Collie vs Border Collie: Height

A male Border Collie’s height is between 19-22 inches while a male Collie’s height is 24-26 inches.

Collie vs Border Collie: Weight

Did you know that Border Collies are medium-sized dogs that are physically smaller and shorter than Rough Collie dogs? Border Collies typically weigh between 27 and 45 pounds, but the Rough Collie can reach 70 pounds.

Collie vs Border Collie: Coat Type

Collie breeds are available in both rough and smooth coats. The “Rough” Collie is characterized by a coarse coat and medium-length feathering on the legs, chest, and belly. The coat of the Border Collie is shorter and smoother than that of the Rough Collie.

Collie vs Border Collie: Colors

Border Collies are commonly bicolor, tricolor, sable, and have merle, tickled, or speckled patterns; very rarely have a single solid color. Additionally, this breed is available in seal, slate, gold, lilac, red, and brindle. Rough Collies come in a variety of colors, including black, white, tan, blue, merle, sable, and multi-colored.

Characteristics

Collie vs Border Collie: Temperament

Compared to their Border counterparts, Collies are more laid-back and calmer. They appear to be content as family pets and thrive in homes with children.

Border Collies are not unpleasant when taught and managed properly, but they have a strong drive to herd and nip, which can be difficult for young kids. They require a great deal of activity to expel their above-average energy levels.

Collie vs Border Collie: Trainability

While both breeds are very straightforward to train, Rough Collies are more eager to please. They require little discipline and are widely utilized in competitions. Collie training is simple since they enjoy learning new commands and tricks when they are having fun.

Border Collies consistently surpass most other breeds in a range of canine activities, including obedience, agility, tracking, jumping, and flying. The Collie is an energetic and athletic breed, which makes training them enjoyable.

Health Factors

Collie vs Border Collie: Life Expectancy

Both breeds are long-living and are generally considered healthy with few major concerns.  Border Collies have a 12 to 15-year average life expectancy. Rough Collies live even longer, with an average of 14 to 16 years! Both breeds can live even longer than their averages with good genes and proper care.

Collie vs Border Collie: Energy Levels

The Rough or Standard Collie requires less exercise than the Border Collie – a daily walk and occasional family playtime are sufficient. On the other side, the Border Collie is a high-energy, wiry dog designed for agility and speed. They require ample time outdoors and room to play.

Wrapping Up Collie vs Border Collie

Since there are numerous types of the same breed, there are bound to be many similarities, particularly in terms of looks. At first glance, the only similarities between the Rough Collie and the Border Collie appear to be their coats and similar hues. Both dogs are also extremely trainable and intelligent household pets.

Although they both require a decent amount of exercise and activity to keep them busy and entertained; the Border Collie is much more energetic requiring more activity and attention. Either way, both are great dogs with endearing personalities and long lifespans, making them excellent pets.