Dogs that look like Border Collies but aren't include the Shetland Sheepdog (Sheltie), a smaller collie lookalike; the Australian Shepherd (Aussie), similar in build with varied colors; and the Belgian Malinois, a sleek, intense herder, though often mistaken for one another due to their shared herding heritage and striking looks.
We say: Shelties often get mistaken for Rough Collies. It is a fair mistake, because even Shelties mistake each other, and sometimes themselves, for a Rough Collie.
The adorable bordoodle is a border collie mix that might not shed as much as its relatives and might have a slightly calmer demeanor.
Certain types of collie (for example Rough Collies, Smooth Collies, Shetland Sheepdogs and some strains of Border Collie and other breeds) have been bred for many generations as pets and for the sport of conformation showing, not as herding dogs.
The "heartbreak breed" refers primarily to the Great Dane, nicknamed this due to their affectionate nature combined with a relatively short lifespan (around 7-10 years) and susceptibility to serious heart conditions like dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), making losing them particularly difficult for their devoted owners. Other giant breeds like Irish Wolfhounds, Bernese Mountain Dogs, and Saint Bernards also face significant health challenges, including cancer and heart disease, often earning them similar sentiments from owners.
Miniature Collies aren't really Collies at all. These are actually Shetland Sheepdogs that are descendants of the Border Collies of Scotland. They resemble Collies, just smaller and are also referred to as Shelties.
9 Calm Dog Breeds
Noise sensitivity issues are a common Border Collie Problem
It's not so much loud noises as bass sounds although some loud noises can have a similar intimidating effect. Thunder is a common problem. Lorries, helicopters, planes and fireworks can also upset them. Base sounds frighten many Border Collies.
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The general appearance of the Shetland is that of a miniature Rough Collie. They are a small and double coated dog with a well shaped head. They have a long coat which becomes short around the face giving it the appearance of a mane.
The #1 smartest dog breed, consistently ranked by experts like Dr. Stanley Coren, is the Border Collie, known for its exceptional ability to learn commands quickly (sometimes in under five repetitions) and obey them consistently, excelling in problem-solving and demanding mental stimulation. Other top contenders for intelligence often include the Poodle, German Shepherd, Golden Retriever, and Shetland Sheepdog, recognized for their trainability and eagerness to please.
If you're interested low-energy, non-shedding breeds, consult our guide to find out which canine companion is right for you.
Meet the Shetland Sheepdog
The Sheltie generally resembles a Collie in miniature. His color may be sable (ranging from light golden brown to dark mahogany), black, or blue merle, with varying amounts of white and/or tan.
While there's no single "number one," the Golden Retriever and Labrador Retriever consistently rank as top friendly dogs due to their gentle, outgoing, and loyal temperaments, making them excellent family pets good with kids and other animals, though they need plenty of exercise. Other top contenders for friendliness include Cocker Spaniels, Beagles, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, and Pugs, known for their playful, affectionate, and people-loving natures.
Havanese are outgoing and intelligent dogs with low-to-medium energy and are a great dog breed for seniors. They are social, trainable dogs that adapt well to most situations. Their one downside is that they can be prone to separation anxiety and don't like to be left alone.
SINGLE PERSON ATTACHMENTS Border collies can also have the habit of wanting to bond, primarily, with their one 'special person'. Which should not be that surprising, given that they are dogs who have been bred for generations to respond to one particular handler, while screening out any other competing distractions.
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When do Border Collies calm down? Border Collies are extremely intelligent and energetic dogs and usually continue to act like a puppies well into their adult years; generally, Border Collie owners see their dogs start to calm down at around 3 years old however this depends on your dog's personality.
Calm dogs
When looking for your new 'man's best friend' why not consider one of the following dog breeds:
Looking like a smaller version of a border collie the Shetland Sheepdog is an extremely intelligent, agile working dog. Shetlands, or 'Shelties', love human companionship and are very sensitive, gentle, affectionate and devoted.
Certain small dog breeds are known for being calm, gentle, and adaptable companions. Expert veterinarians emphasize individual personality, environment, and proper care shape calmness in dogs. Some breeds noted for calmness include Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Shih Tzu, Pug, and Bichon Frise.
If you're the proud owner of a Shetland Sheepdog , affectionately known as a Sheltie, you've found a loyal, loving, and highly intelligent companion. The Sheltie's keen intellect and endearing traits make her an ideal pet for families, singles, and seniors alike.