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Side by side
Choose two breeds. You’ll see the same strip of citeable traits — not a winner, and not kids / apartment / shedding scorecards.
Temperament lines are short plate excerpts, not a verdict. Open each plate for the full entry.
- AKC group
Herding
- Size
Medium
- Height
46–56 cm (AKC)
- Weight
~14–25 kg (AKC profile)
- Energy
Very high
- Energy notes
Very high. The AKC standard calls the Border Collie energetic and built for 'endless endurance', and the Kennel Club recommends more than two hours of exercise a day.
- Trainability
Very high
- Coat
There are two varieties, both with a dense, weather-resistant double coat: a moderately long coat (the AKC calls it rough) that forms a mane, breeching and brush, and a short, smooth coat.
- Origin
United Kingdom
- Temperament
The AKC standard describes the Border Collie as energetic, intelligent, keen, alert and responsive, an intense worker of great tractability that is affectionate with friends but may be sensibly reserved with strangers. It should stand its ground when approached and never show fear, dullness or resentment.
- AKC group
Herding
- Size
Medium
- Height
46–58 cm (AKC/FCI)
- Weight
~18–29 kg (AKC profile)
- Energy
High
- Energy notes
High. The standards describe an active working dog with the stamina to work all day.
- Trainability
High
- Coat
The coat is of medium texture and length, straight to wavy and weather resistant, with an undercoat that varies with the climate.
- Origin
United States
- Temperament
Both standards describe an intelligent, active dog with strong herding and guarding instincts and an even disposition: good-natured, seldom quarrelsome, and a loyal companion, though it may be somewhat reserved when meeting people for the first time. The FCI adds that Australian Shepherds show an unsurpassed devotion to their families.
