What is the difference between a border collie and an australian shepherd?

Question

Is it just me or are these two breeds closely related?

Sorry, I should've clarified my question. I am mainly looking for the difference in appearance. I am definitely recognize a black/white border collie; I get very confused with other colors. But thanks to all who point out the difference in personality/behavior/herding method!

Answer 1

Yes, they are fairly similar. They are both herding breeds. There is much variation in the individuals within each of the breeds, so that some individual Aussies will look more like some individual Border Collies. And act more similarly too. But they are seperate breeds, and what is wanted and desired for each breed varies a bit too.

Border Collies were bred specifically for herding. Actually the beginning of the Australian Shepherd (before it was named thus) wasn't specifically for herding, and was actually developed in the US ?!?

Aussies are usually noticed as such for not having tails. Some are born without and others are docked. BCs are left with their tails.

BCs are most commonly B&W, but come in the other "aussie colors" too. Few Aussies are just B&W.

Aussies are generally more heavy, stocky, substantial in bone and body than BCs. BCs often tend to be racy and lanky. Same goes for head type: Aussies usually heavier and broader in head and often have shorter muzzles and a more pronounced stop. Aussies breeders breed for dark eyes (except blue and merled ok in merles) whereas often BCs will have a lighter eye.

Excepting the "new conformation BC breeders"....BC breeders pretty much just prefer 2 ears that hear, no matter the set...."eye" is not the shape, color or size, but a description of how the BC uses them for herding. Coat is for protection from the elements.......you get my drift. Hence a lot of variation within the BC breed.

Style of herding is different. BCs are notorious for working close to the ground, the "slinking" look, even when they play.

BCs are a more intense breed.

Aussies, I think, for the general public are a better choice as a pet, though they need a lot of exercise, attention and mental stimulation too

I have a BC

Answer 2

I have had both Border Collies and Australian Shepherds and a mix of the two. The Border Collies by far and away were the smartest! The BC Aussie mix was the most affectionate and my present purebred Aussie from working stock is extremely independent and difficult to handle as he has a mind of his own! I love this fellah dearly but he is really just a shadow of the dogs I have had in past, not as bright and learns everything the hard way!

Answer 3

To someone not involved in either breed, yes they look very similar. Additionally, they are both herding dogs and they both can be very high energy dogs.

The predominant color for most Border Collies is black and white. I don't know what percentage of dogs are that color, but I'm certain it's over 50 percent. I don't know that I've seen a black and white Aussie.

Border Collies also come in reds, blues and merles.

Border Collies tend to be slightly shorter, longer in body length and finer boned. Head shape is slightly different.

Most Aussies tend to have cropped tails, although not all of them.

Red and blue tri-colors and red or blue merles tend to be the dominant color patterns.

When it comes to herding, Border Collies tend to herd with their heads down more, "eyeing" the sheep. Aussies herd much more upright.

Hope that helps.

Answer 4

They are both in the herding group,both very smart. One was originally bred in America the Australian Shepherd. No idea why they have that name. The Border Collie is from the UK, I do know about that name, because they were bred between England & Scotland (the border). I love them both it's just a personal preference as to the one they get. All the best;~}

Answer 5

They have many similar characteristics.
BC's are historically herding dogs, they have ALOT of energy and if they do not have a job they will behave badly, almost neurotic behavior. They tend to focus on the task at hand and will exhaust themselves doing their job.
Aussie's are herders as well but they also have strong guardian instincts. They are highly territorial. They too, require alot of exercise and love to have a job to do but are not as intense as BC's. Aussies are extremely loyal to their master. Not to say that BC's are bad because they too love their human master and make wonderful companions. Both need to have their energy channeled. Both are highly intelligent.

Ok. Aussie's are generally larger than BC's - taller, wider and basically more stocky and a heavier coat with more of a mane around the neck. Aussie tails are docked.The accepted colors transgress both breeds. You are right, physically speaking they are similar.

Answer 6

The look a lot alike! I have a friend with an Australian Shepard, and she said the species isn't really from Australia. She said it was improperly named. It could be named to distinguish it from a collie.

Answer 7

they ARE real similar. i usually tell them apart by noticing that the nose is narrower on the border collie

Answer 8

They are two different breeds---->

http://www.akc.org/breeds/australian_shepherd/index.cfm

http://www.akc.org/breeds/border_collie/index.cfm

The above links take you to the American Kennel Club official breed standards for both so you can compare.