Did you know that Border Collies are often called the “Einsteins” of the dog world? With their sharp intelligence, lightning-fast reflexes, and boundless energy, it’s no wonder they’ve earned such a reputation. But not everyone can keep up with their high-octane lifestyle.
If you love the look, spirit, and smarts of a Border Collie but want a breed that’s a little more relaxed—or just slightly different in temperament—there are plenty of options. From equally brainy herding dogs to playful companions with similar appearances, many breeds share the Border Collie’s charm in unique ways.
Whether you’re an active adventurer, a family looking for a loyal friend, or someone drawn to athletic dogs, exploring these breeds opens up a world of intelligent, agile, and affectionate companions.
Here are nine dog breeds that might just steal your heart as much as a Border Collie does.
Dog Breeds Similar To Border Collies
1. Australian Shepherd
The Australian Shepherd is a medium-sized herding dog admired for its intelligence, agility, and enthusiasm for work. Known for their sharp instincts and quick reactions, these dogs thrive when given tasks that challenge both body and mind.
Despite their name, Australian Shepherds were actually developed in the United States. The breed’s ancestors came from herding dogs brought by Basque shepherds, refined over time to become the skilled ranch dogs known today.
Highly energetic and eager to learn, Australian Shepherds are best suited to owners who enjoy an active lifestyle. According to the AKC, they excel in sports like agility, herding trials, and obedience competitions, where their focus and drive shine.
Their distinctive appearance, featuring striking coat colors such as blue or red merle, adds to their appeal. With expressive eyes and an alert stance, they project a sense of determination that reflects their herding roots.
For families seeking a loyal companion that thrives on mental stimulation and exercise, this breed offers unwavering devotion and remarkable versatility. However, their energy level can be challenging for less active households.
Fun Fact
The Australian Shepherd didn’t actually originate in Australia—it was refined in the American West and named after the Basque shepherds who came from Australia with their working dogs.
2. Shetland Sheepdog
The Shetland Sheepdog, affectionately called the Sheltie, hails from the rugged Shetland Islands of Scotland. Originally bred to herd sheep and ponies, this small but powerful breed is known for its sharp mind and big personality.
Shelties are incredibly intelligent and rank among the top breeds for obedience and agility. Their enthusiasm for training and ability to quickly understand commands make them a favorite for active families and dog-sport enthusiasts.
Physically, the Shetland Sheepdog looks like a smaller version of the Rough Collie, with a long, dense double coat and a gentle, expressive face. Their elegant appearance is matched by their affectionate nature and strong loyalty to their owners.
As per PetMD, Shelties possess a strong herding instinct. They often try to “round up” children, pets, or even passing joggers—an instinctive behavior that reveals their working heritage.
These dogs thrive on companionship and mental engagement. When provided with sufficient playtime, grooming, and affection, they reward their families with endless devotion and lively intelligence.
Fun Fact
Shetland Sheepdogs are known for their impressive memory and ability to learn new tricks in just a few repetitions—one of the reasons they excel in canine sports worldwide.
3. Scotch Collie
The Scotch Collie, sometimes called the Old-Time Farm Collie, traces its roots to the Scottish Highlands. These dogs were bred for herding livestock across rough terrain, prized for their endurance and steady temperament.
With a balance of intelligence and intuition, Scotch Collies excel at reading human cues and managing flocks with little direction. Their problem-solving skills and calm demeanor make them capable and versatile working dogs.
As per Hill’s Pet, their coats are typically long and soft, displaying shades of sable, tricolor, or blue merle. Expressive eyes and a gentle face give the breed a warm, approachable look that matches its even-tempered nature.
While originally bred for function rather than show, Scotch Collies retain the natural grace and stamina of traditional herding dogs. They need daily activity and thrive in open spaces where they can move freely.
Families seeking a dog that combines the elegance of a Collie with the intelligence and focus of a Border Collie often find the Scotch Collie to be an ideal middle ground.
Fun Fact
Scotch Collies were beloved on early American farms for their versatility—they could herd sheep by day and guard the family home by night, adapting easily to any role.
4. Collie
The Collie is one of the world’s most recognized herding breeds, known for its elegance, devotion, and intelligence. Originating from Scotland and Northern England, it was bred to manage sheep across challenging terrain.
This breed shares many qualities with the Border Collie, such as keen awareness, trainability, and loyalty, but it tends to be more relaxed and gentle in nature. Collies are affectionate companions who bond deeply with their families, as noted by WebMD.
The Rough Collie, with its luxurious coat, is the most iconic variety, while the Smooth Collie features shorter fur but the same intelligent, friendly temperament. Both versions possess remarkable endurance and poise.
Collies thrive on interaction and respond beautifully to kind, consistent training. They love having a purpose—whether that’s herding, agility, or simply being part of family life.
For families who want a loyal, graceful, and intelligent dog without the intensity of a Border Collie, the Collie offers a perfect blend of brains and beauty.
Fun Fact
The Collie’s fame skyrocketed thanks to “Lassie,” the beloved television and film character who showcased the breed’s loyalty and brilliance to audiences around the world.
5. Australian Cattle Dog
The Australian Cattle Dog is a sturdy, compact herder known for its grit, endurance, and sharp instincts. Originally bred in Australia, it was developed to drive cattle across vast, unforgiving land, often working tirelessly for hours on end. Its dense double coat protects it from heat, rain, and rough brush.
This breed’s keen intelligence and loyalty make it an exceptional working partner. It thrives on purpose—herding, training, or competitive sports—and quickly forms deep bonds with its handlers. Without mental or physical outlets, though, the Cattle Dog can grow restless or mischievous.
Because of its herding heritage, this breed is agile, muscular, and remarkably quick to react. It’s often described as a “thinking athlete,” capable of solving problems on the move while keeping focus under pressure.
Beyond the ranch, Australian Cattle Dogs are affectionate companions who protect their families with quiet devotion. They do best with owners who match their drive and energy level.
Whether on a farm or in an active suburban home, this breed shines when given consistent work, leadership, and exercise. It’s a perfect match for people who love adventure and routine in equal measure.
Fun Fact
Depending on its coat color, this breed is often called a “Blue Heeler” or “Red Heeler,” nicknames that nod to its job of gently nipping cattle’s heels to move them along.
6. Belgian Malinois
The Belgian Malinois is a sleek, athletic herding breed known for its unmatched focus and work ethic. Originating in Belgium, it was bred to herd and guard livestock but has since become a world-class working dog in police, military, and rescue roles.
Highly intelligent and energetic, the Malinois thrives under consistent structure and challenge. It enjoys tasks that require both physical effort and mental sharpness, making it a favorite among trainers and professionals alike.
Its fawn or mahogany coat with a black mask gives it a confident, commanding presence. Beneath that bold exterior lies a deeply loyal and affectionate companion that bonds strongly with its handler.
This breed’s drive to perform is nearly limitless—it’s happiest when it has a purpose. Without guidance or stimulation, its intensity can lead to restlessness or unwanted behavior.
For an active person seeking a devoted, energetic, and intelligent dog, the Belgian Malinois offers both brilliance and heart—but it’s best suited for experienced owners who can match its spirit.
Fun Fact
The Belgian Malinois is the breed most often chosen for elite K-9 units, including those trained for skydiving and parachute jumps during special operations.
7. New Zealand Heading Dog
The New Zealand Heading Dog was developed for the unique landscapes and livestock of New Zealand’s farms. Built for speed, intelligence, and endurance, it was bred from working collie types to create a dog capable of covering miles of hilly terrain with ease.
Sleek and agile, the Heading Dog uses sight, body position, and quiet focus to control livestock rather than loud barking. Its ability to read subtle movements and anticipate direction makes it a standout among herders.
This breed is energetic and task-oriented, happiest when it has a job to do. It thrives on routine and training, combining obedience with independent decision-making—qualities essential in remote farm work.
Though reserved at first, the New Zealand Heading Dog forms strong attachments once trust is earned. It fits best with active owners who value partnership and daily activity.
Its intelligence, adaptability, and stamina make it not only a farmer’s favorite but also a rewarding companion for those who appreciate a dog with a brilliant working mind.
Fun Fact
Unlike many herding breeds, the New Zealand Heading Dog herds from a standing position instead of crouching, allowing farmers to spot them more easily across open hillsides.
8. Koolie
The Koolie, also known as the Australian Koolie, is a versatile and intelligent working dog renowned for its adaptability across climates and terrains. Developed from early British herding dogs, it remains one of Australia’s most trusted farm companions.
With a lean, athletic body and a wide range of coat colors—from merle to solid patterns—the Koolie combines beauty with raw functionality. Its smooth stride and boundless energy make it a master at covering ground quickly.
This breed’s temperament is calm, alert, and eager to please. It responds exceptionally well to training, learning complex commands quickly, and thrives in agility and obedience competitions.
Koolies need daily mental and physical challenges to stay fulfilled. They excel on farms, in sporting events, and in active homes where they can join in outdoor adventures.
Their loyalty, intelligence, and gentle nature make them wonderful companions for those who can match their energy level and keep them mentally engaged.
Fun Fact
Many Koolies perform a signature herding move called “backing,” where they jump onto the backs of sheep or cattle to cross a herd more efficiently during mustering.
9. Belgian Tervuren
The Belgian Tervuren is a graceful, long-coated herding dog that blends intelligence with elegance. Originating from Belgium, it’s one of four related Belgian shepherd breeds, recognized for its alert expression and proud carriage.
Beneath its flowing mahogany and black coat lies a dog of remarkable athleticism and precision. The Tervuren thrives in active environments where it can run, learn, and participate in organized training.
This breed’s mind is as quick as its movements. It excels in obedience, herding, and agility work, responding enthusiastically to positive, structured training methods.
While affectionate and loyal to family, the Belgian Tervuren can be reserved with strangers, preferring time to observe before engaging. Early socialization ensures it grows into a confident, well-balanced adult.
A home that offers plenty of activity, companionship, and mental challenges is where this breed truly shines. It rewards its owners with devotion, elegance, and endless energy.
Fun Fact
Belgian Tervurens are known to keep moving even when not working—many owners joke that they’re “in motion until bedtime,” a testament to their tireless drive.
FAQs
What are common mistakes people make with Border Collie–style dogs?
Many owners underestimate their high energy and strong work drive. Without regular exercise or mental challenges, these bright dogs can become bored, anxious, or destructive.
How do dogs like Border Collies show their intelligence every day?
They solve problems quickly, anticipate commands, and read human cues with ease. Their ability to learn routines and notice even small changes makes them highly trainable and alert companions.
How much daily exercise does a Border Collie–type dog really need?
They require vigorous activity and mental stimulation—usually two hours of movement a day. Walks, playtime, and structured tasks keep them balanced and prevent unwanted behaviors.
Conclusion
Dogs that share many traits with the Border Collie are distinct, beautiful dogs known for intelligence, focus, and energy. Their strong work drive, bright minds, and love for activity make them excellent companions for families and kids alike.
With regular exercise, they remain healthy, confident, and loyal, whether herding animals or learning new skills. These highly trainable dogs also excel in police work, search tasks, and agility sports, where they can chase, shed stress, and think independently.
Other dog breeds such as the German Shepherd, Bearded Collie, Old English Sheepdogs, Poodles, and English Sheepdogs—descended partly from the Anglo-Scottish border region—share similar qualities, proving that when it comes to intelligence and devotion, these two breeds and other dogs truly stand apart.
