Border Collie
Widely considered the most intelligent of all dog breeds, the Border Collie is a tireless herder with an intense work ethic. They need a job to do and an owner who can match their energy.
VS
Brittany
A versatile, energetic bird dog with a sweet disposition. Brittanys are quick, agile, and eager to please, making them excellent hunting companions and active family dogs.
Quick Answer
Choose Border Collie if you want a great companion. Choose Brittany if you want better with kids and less shedding.
Quick Comparison
Border Collie
Attribute
Brittany
medium
Size
medium
14–20 kg (31–44 lbs)
Weight
14–18 kg (31–40 lbs)
46–56 cm (18–22 in)
Height
44–52 cm (17–20 in)
12–15 yrs
Lifespan
12–14 yrs
5/5
Trainability
5/5
5/5
Energy
5/5
3/5
Good with Kids
4/5Better
4/5
Shedding
2/5Better
3/5
Grooming
2/5Better
1/5
Apartment
1/5
4/5
Health
4/5
$800–$2,500
Price
$700–$1,500Better
Attribute Comparison
Grooming & Shedding
Border Collie sheds more; Brittany is easier to maintain.
Border Collie
Brittany
Shedding
4/5
vs2/5Better
Grooming Needs
3/5
vs2/5Better
If you hate vacuuming, this matters. The Border Collie's 4/5 shedding level means daily fur management is part of life.
Family & Social Life
Brittany is better suited for families with children.
Border Collie
Brittany
Good with Kids
3/5
vs4/5Better
Good with Dogs
3/5
vs4/5Better
Strangers
3/5
vs4/5Better
The Brittany has a slight edge with children (4/5 vs 3/5). Both breeds can do well in families, but the Brittany's bright temperament gives it a small advantage around young kids.
Cost of Ownership
Both breeds cost about the same to own.
Border Collie
Avg. Purchase$1,650
Annual Food$540
Annual Vet$400
Annual Grooming$200
Annual Total$1,140
Brittany
Avg. Purchase$1,100
Annual Food$540
Annual Vet$400
Annual Grooming$150
Annual Total$1,090 ✓
Purchase prices are in the same ballpark: $800–$2,500 for a Border Collie and $700–$1,500 for a Brittany. The initial investment won't differ dramatically between these two breeds.
Temperament & Personality
Both breeds have similar temperaments.
Border Collie
Brittany
Playfulness
5/5
vs5/5
Barking Level
3/5
vs2/5Better
Energy
5/5
vs5/5
One of the most important factors in choosing between these two breeds is temperament. The Border Collie is typically intelligent, energetic and tenacious, making them well suited for active lifestyles and houses with yards.
Health & Lifespan
Both breeds have similar health profiles.
Border Collie
Brittany
Lifespan (years)
12–15
vs12–14
Health Robustness
4/5
vs4/5
Lifespan is a near-tie: the Border Collie lives roughly 12–15 years while the Brittany averages 12–14 years. Neither breed has a clear longevity advantage, so other factors should drive your choice.
Size & Appearance
Both breeds are similar in size.
Border Collie
Brittany
Weight (kg)
14–20
vs14–18
Height (cm)
46–56
vs44–52
The Border Collie (14–20 kg (31–44 lbs), 46–56 cm (18–22 in)) and Brittany (14–18 kg (31–40 lbs), 44–52 cm (17–20 in)) are very close in size. You won't need different-sized equipment, and food costs will be comparable.
Exercise & Activity
Both breeds have similar exercise requirements.
Border Collie
Brittany
Energy Level
5/5
vs5/5
Exercise Needs
5/5
vs5/5
Apartment Friendly
1/5
vs1/5
Both breeds share identical exercise needs (5/5) and similar energy levels (Border Collie: 5/5, Brittany: 5/5). Your daily exercise routine will look the same regardless of which breed you choose — plan for at least 60 minutes of vigorous daily activity.
Training & Intelligence
Both breeds are equally trainable.
Border Collie
Brittany
Trainability
5/5
vs5/5
Intelligence
5/5
vs5/5
Both breeds score 5/5 for trainability — you'll have a similar experience training either one. Both are cooperative, eager learners.
Summary: Which Should You Choose?
On balance, the Brittany has the edge — it's better with children (4/5), less shedding (2/5). For most families, the Brittany is the more practical choice, particularly if you value a kid-friendly dog.
Which Breed Is Right for You?
Question 1 of 3
Do you have children at home?
The Verdict
The Border Collie and Brittany are both popular breeds, but they suit different lifestyles. The key differences: Border Collie sheds considerably more. Annual ownership costs are broadly similar for both breeds.
Choose Border Collie if...
- ✓Their temperament and lifestyle fit aligns better with your situation — use our quiz for a personalized recommendation.
Choose Brittany if...
- ✓You have young children — Brittanys are generally more patient and gentle with kids.
- ✓You hate vacuuming or have allergies — Brittanys shed dramatically less (2/5 vs 4/5 shedding score).
Neither may be right if...
Both the Border Collie and Brittany have high energy needs (5/5 and 5/5 respectively). If you live in a small apartment without park access or can't commit to 60+ minutes of daily exercise, consider a lower-energy breed like a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel or Shih Tzu instead.
Looking for more options?
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for families, Border Collie or Brittany?
The Brittany is generally better with children, scoring 4/5 compared to the Border Collie's 3/5. Individual temperament varies, and proper socialization is key for any breed.
Is a Border Collie or Brittany easier to train?
The Border Collie is equally easy to train with a score of 5/5, matching the Brittany. Consistent, positive reinforcement methods work well.
Which costs more, a Border Collie or Brittany?
A Border Collie puppy costs $800–$2,500 while a Brittany costs $700–$1,500. Annual maintenance runs about $1,140 for the Border Collie and $1,090 for the Brittany. The Border Collie is the more expensive breed to own long-term.
Do Border Collies or Brittanys live longer?
The Border Collie lives 12–15 years on average, while the Brittany lives 12–14 years. The Border Collie generally has a longer lifespan. Proper diet, exercise, and regular vet care help maximize lifespan for either breed.
Can a Border Collie or Brittany live in an apartment?
The Border Collie is equally suited for apartments (1/5) as the Brittany (1/5). Neither breed is ideal for apartments — both prefer more space.