Border Collie vs Eurasier

Choosing between Border Collie and Eurasier? They are a similar size, so the real deciding factors are lifestyle and temperament: Border Collie is the higher-energy of the two, while Eurasier is happier with a calmer routine. Below we break down exactly how the two breeds compare on the things that shape daily life with a dog, so you can see which one is the better fit for your home, family and routine.

Border Collie vs Eurasier: full comparison

TraitBorder CollieEurasier
SizeMediumMedium
Energy levelVery HighMedium
TrainabilityVery HighMedium
FriendlinessMediumMedium
Good with childrenMediumMedium
Grooming needsHighHigh
SheddingHighHigh
BarkingMediumLow
ProtectivenessMediumMedium
AdaptabilityMediumMedium
Typical lifespan14 years13 years
HypoallergenicNoNo

Key differences at a glance

Size and living space

The Border Collie is a medium-sized dog that is comfortable in most homes, though a bit of space and a garden are welcome. By comparison, the Eurasier is a medium-sized dog that is comfortable in most homes, though a bit of space and a garden are welcome. Because they are a similar size, neither has a clear space advantage — both will suit the same kind of home.

Exercise and energy needs

The Border Collie is a true athlete that needs intense daily exercise and a job to do, or it will get restless. The Eurasier needs a solid walk or two a day plus some active play. If you have a busy schedule, the lower-energy of the two will be easier to keep satisfied; if you are active and want a dog to keep up, the higher-energy breed is the better match.

Grooming and shedding

The Border Collie needs frequent grooming and benefits from professional trims and sheds quite a lot — expect fur on furniture and clothes. The Eurasier needs frequent grooming and benefits from professional trims and sheds quite a lot — expect fur on furniture and clothes. Grooming upkeep is similar for both.

Temperament, training and family life

The Border Collie is highly intelligent and learns new commands remarkably fast, barks a moderate amount, usually with reason and is generally good with children when socialised and supervised. The Eurasier is reasonably trainable with regular, positive sessions, is generally quiet, barking only occasionally and is generally good with children when socialised and supervised. On guarding instinct, Border Collie will alert you to visitors but is not an aggressive guardian, whereas Eurasier will alert you to visitors but is not an aggressive guardian.

Which is better for…

Which should you choose?

Choose the Border Collie if you want an easier dog to train, you want a more energetic partner for sport and adventure, or you want a longer-lived breed.

Choose the Eurasier if you want a calmer, lower-energy companion or you prefer a quieter dog.

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Frequently asked questions

Is the Border Collie or the Eurasier better for families with children?
Both the Border Collie and the Eurasier are considered good with children when properly socialised and supervised.
Which sheds more, the Border Collie or the Eurasier?
The Border Collie and Eurasier shed a similar amount (high).
Which is easier to train, the Border Collie or the Eurasier?
The Border Collie is generally the easier of the two to train, making it a better pick for less experienced owners.
Is Border Collie or Eurasier bigger?
Border Collie and Eurasier are a similar size (Medium).
Which barks more, Border Collie or Eurasier?
Border Collie tends to be the more vocal of the two, so Eurasier is the quieter choice.
Which is better for apartment living, Border Collie or Eurasier?
For apartment or flat living, Eurasier has the edge, thanks to its size, quieter nature and more manageable energy.

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