English Shepherds and border collies are both great and popular dog breeds to have. And even though both breeds have a similar appearance, there are some unique distinctions between the two.
So, you may think it doesn’t matter which one to choose. However, you can ensure you are getting the right dog breed when you know their distinctions and more.
Thus said, this article gives viable information concerning the distinctions and other important information about English Shepherds and border collies.
Differences Between English Shepherds and Border Collies
Their Appearances
English Shepherds
English Shepherd has a classic herding dog appearance. And even though they are medium-sized, they have tons of strength to handle large cattle.
The adult males stand at 18 to 23 inches at the shoulder, and the adult females stand at 18 to 22 inches at the shoulder. Most of their coat colors come in the patterns of sable and white, black and tan, and black and white. Most of them also come in the tricolor of tan, white, and black.
Border Collies
The border collie is a small collie breed. The males stand between 19 to 22 inches tall at the shoulder, and the females stand between 18 to 21 inches tall.
The most common coat colors of these dogs are black and white. They also come in various color combinations and colors.
Their Temperaments
English Shepherds
Just like border collies, English shepherds are hard-working, intelligent, and extremely energetic. English shepherds also have a strong, independent trait, so they can do most tasks on their own.
Nevertheless, these breeds are still rather obedient and easy to train. You just have to make it known to them that you are the boss. Other than that, they are very friendly, and they get along quite well with children and other animals.
Other than that, they can become overexcited at times and somewhat use their teeth to herd the flock. And if they don’t get enough exercise, they will quickly become bored and sometimes destructive.
Border Collies
This dog is an intensified and high-energy breed, and it performs best when it’s active. So, border collies need plenty of stimulating play and exercise. Owners of these dogs enroll them in obedience trials, shepherding, and other activities to remain amused.
On the other hand, these dogs can be happy yet destructive if they are confined with no training. Border collies are also not always friendly to other animals, and they have a tendency to bark a lot.
When it comes to children and other people, they are sensitive and aware of their emotions. These dogs are also known to be affectionate around kids, energetic, and playful.
Their Costs
English Shepherds
The cost for English Shepherd puppies from registered breeders is $350 to $1000 and even more sometimes. The average cost is approximately $500.
Border Collie
The average cost of a border collie puppy is around $600. The price depends on various factors, such as the location and reputation of the breeders, the dogs’ pedigree, and the size of the litter.
The price tag for a premium border collie puppy is between $1300 to $4500 and even more. The amount of the price tag is dependent on the superior lineage, proper documentation, and breeding rights. The price tag to train them can be as high as $7500.
Exercise and Training These Dogs
Continuous training and exercise are great for both dogs. However, you don’t have to exercise collies as much as you do border collies, and training them is optional.
For border collies, training and exercise keep these dogs mentally stimulated, and strengthen the bond between the owner and the dog. Also, only use positive reinforcement when training.
They’re tireless, energetic, and rather intelligent.
Besides herding sheep, they have developed a versatile set of other skills and can perform various tasks on the farm.
In addition, they are loyal companions and wonderful family dogs.
Some physical exercises that either dog breed can do are as follows:
- Running
- Hiking
- Fetching
- Frisbee
- Swimming
- Long walks
Some mental exercises include the following:
- Training and tricks
- Hide and seek
- Episodes of agility training
- Long walks
Which Breed Makes a Better Pet?
Now, that you know the distinctions and other relevant information about English shepherds and border collies, you can make the right choice. It may come down to your lifestyle. So, if you are not that active, an English shepherd may be the right choice, for instance.
On the other hand, the border collie may be the breed for you if you are a dog owner looking for the challenge of sharing an active and intense life with that new best friend.
