Dog breed comparison
Collie vs Shetland Sheepdog
How the two compare on size, temperament, training, grooming and health, and which suits your home. The Collie is the bigger breed, about 18 kg heavier on average. The Shetland Sheepdog tends to live about 2 years longer.
At a glance
Side by side.
| Trait | Collie | Shetland Sheepdog |
|---|---|---|
| Group | Herding Dogs | Herding Dogs |
| Size | Large | Small |
| Height | 22 to 26 inches all at the shoulder | 13 to 16 inches tall at the shoulder |
| Weight | 50 to 70 pounds | Starts at 20 pounds |
| Life span | 10 to 14 years | 12 to 15 years |
| Energy | ||
| Exercise needs | ||
| Easy to train | ||
| Intelligence | ||
| Good with children | ||
| Good with other dogs | ||
| Friendly with strangers | ||
| Shedding | ||
| Easy to groom | ||
| Barking | ||
| Apartment living | ||
| First-time owners | ||
| Copes alone | ||
| Drooling | ||
| General health |
Ratings are 1 to 5, from our breed database. Every pet is an individual.
Key differences
Where they differ most.
Energy
The Shetland Sheepdog has more energy than the Collie.
Exercise needs
The Shetland Sheepdog needs more exercise than the Collie.
Easy to train
The Shetland Sheepdog is easier to train than the Collie.
Intelligence
The Shetland Sheepdog is quicker to learn than the Collie.
Friendly with strangers
The Shetland Sheepdog is friendlier with strangers than the Collie.
Apartment living
The Collie copes better in an apartment than the Shetland Sheepdog.
Which to choose
Collie or Shetland Sheepdog?
Choose the Collie if…
- You’d like a calmer pet (it is calmer)
- You have less time for long walks (it needs less exercise)
- You want a more watchful dog (it is more reserved with strangers)
- You want a dog that copes better in an apartment
Choose the Shetland Sheepdog if…
- You want an active, playful companion (it has more energy)
- You’re out walking, running or hiking most days (it needs more exercise)
- You want a dog that is easier to train
- You want a dog that is quicker to learn
Questions.
Is the Collie or the Shetland Sheepdog bigger, and which lives longer?
The Collie is the bigger breed, about 18 kg heavier on average. The Shetland Sheepdog tends to live about 2 years longer. Individual pets vary, so meet the parents or the pet where you can.
Which is easier to train, the Collie or the Shetland Sheepdog?
The Shetland Sheepdog is generally easier to train than the Collie. Short, positive, reward-based sessions work best for both.
Which is better for families, the Collie or the Shetland Sheepdog?
Both are usually good with children when well socialised. Always supervise young children with any pet.
Which sheds less?
They shed about the same amount. No breed is completely hair-free; regular brushing helps with both.
