Border Collie
VS
Cairn Terrier
Border Collie vs Cairn Terrier
Compare Border Collie and Cairn Terrier side by side and get a clear picture of what sets the breeds apart. Explore differences in size, weight, temperament, activity level, and other key traits to more easily decide which breed best fits your lifestyle and circumstances.
Characteristic
Border Collie
Cairn Terrier
Breed type
Purebred
Purebred
Height
52 – 53 cm
28 – 31 cm
Weight
12 – 20 kg
7 – 8 kg
Life expectancy
10 – 15 years
12 – 17 years
Child friendly
3/5
5/5
Energy level
4/5
3/5
Intelligence
5/5
3/5
Trainability
5/5
4/5
Health
3/5
4/5
Grooming needs
3/5
4/5
Shedding
3/5
1/5
Barking level
5/5
4/5
Aggressiveness
2/5
2/5
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Characteristics
Border Collie
High energy
Super smart
Easy to train
Medium
Cairn Terrier
Great with kids
Easy to train
Small
Summary
About Border Collie
The Border Collie is a medium, athletic herding dog known for intense focus, high intelligence and very high energy. Developed to work sheep all day, it excels in herding, sports and training. It needs plenty of exercise, mental stimulation and structured guidance in an active home.
About Cairn Terrier
Small, sturdy Scottish terrier bred to hunt among rocky cairns. Around 28–31 cm tall with a harsh, weatherproof double coat needing regular stripping and brushing. Bold, curious, affectionate, and vocal; enjoys daily walks, mental stimulation, and active family life. Generally hardy and long-lived.
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