A CLOSER LOOK

Compare dog breeds for everyday life.

Compare size, exercise, grooming and care tradeoffs. Unknown fields stay visible; breed tendencies do not guarantee individual behavior.

Compare selected breed traits

Black-and-white Border Collie looking to the side, with bright eyes and a feathered coat.
Medium

Border Collie↗

A highly intelligent herding dog happiest with purposeful work and an engaged, active owner.

Reviewed profile
Black Standard Poodle standing on grass, with a curly clipped coat and long legs.
Large

Standard Poodle↗

A bright, athletic companion with a low-shedding coat and a love of learning.

Reviewed profile
Compare up to four breeds side by side
Everyday lifeBorder CollieStandard Poodle
OriginGreat BritainFrance
SizeMediumLarge
Height19-22 inches (male), 18-21 inches (female)over 15 inches (standard)
Weight30-55 pounds60-70 pounds (male standard), 40-50 pounds (female standard)
Typical lifespan12-15 years10-18 years
EnergyVery highHigh
Mental stimulationVery highVery high
GroomingModerateHigh
TrainabilityVery highVery high
BarkingHighHigh
SheddingModerateVery low
ChildrenModerateVery high
Other dogsModerateModerate
Apartment adaptabilityVery lowModerate
First-owner suitabilityVery lowHigh
Climate considerationsUnknownUnknown
Monthly estimate (USD)$160–$320$195–$380
Care considerationsNeeds substantial mental and physical activity. Herding instincts can be challenging around young children.Professional grooming and mental enrichment are essential; low shedding does not guarantee allergy compatibility.
SourceAKC Border Collie breed guideAKC Poodle (Standard) breed guide

AKC trait ratings describe general tendencies. Apartment and first-owner ratings are editorial estimates. Unknown means unresearched or unavailable. Cats and small pets require individual assessment. Monthly estimates exclude emergencies, insurance, and initial costs. Read our methodology and sources.

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