Versus

Border Collie vs Boxer Complete Breed Comparison

Before you make the commitment to include a pup in your life, you must ensure that you are prepared for it. This is a serious decision so you should take the time to make sure you are ready for it.

Primarily, you should evaluate the lifestyle you have and contemplate what changes you would be willing to make. Assess your family’s requirements, especially if you have children, elderly family members, or other animals.

Characteristics of Border Collie vs Boxer

A Border Collie and Boxer are two unique breeds of dogs. Let’s take a quick look of their characteristics to see which one suits you best.

Border Collie Boxer
Weight Male Border Collies range from 30 to 45 pounds while females are somewhere around 30 to 42 pounds Boxers are ranging from 65 to 80 pounds for males and 50 to 65 pounds for a female
Height Typically, male and female Border Collies stand at 22 and 20 inches respectively These dogs are quite tall standing at 24 inches for males and 22 inches for female
Coat These dogs have medium-length, double coat The coat is fairly short
Colors Common colors are black and white, black, red and white, bicolor, tricolor, sable, and merle There are varieties of colors that a Boxer sports such as brindle, fawn, black mask, and white flashing

History of Boxer vs Border Collie

Today, the Border Collie is acknowledged for its sharp wit, remarkable abilities, and abundant energy. The breed is a product of centuries of development in the Northumberland area located between England and Scotland, with the primary purpose of herding sheep.

It is believed that the origin of this type of dog can be traced back to the Romans two millennia ago. They brought with them their drover dogs. The Vikings also invaded England around 1200 years ago and brought their Spitz-type canines.

Developed for tracking and labor, the Boxer is a one-of-a-kind breed. It had its beginnings in Germany in the late 1800s. The Boxer type that we know today originated with George Alt from Munich. He got a Bullenbeisser from France named Flora. Her litters were the inception of the current Boxer we know today.

Appearance of Border Collie and Boxer

Border Collies are of average size, agile dogs with a distinctive black and white coat. They are shorter in comparison to other breeds. This makes them well-suited for their job of sheepherding. The face of a Border Collie is beautiful in its own way. It’s easily identifiable due to its unique features, including semi-erect ears that can sometimes flop forwards in an endearing manner.

A Boxer has unique physical features too. If you are in the market for a purebred Boxer, here are some distinct qualities to be aware of when considering this breed:

  • Square-shaped head
  • A nose that is slightly angled backward
  • Short muzzle
  • Jaw with underbite
  • Well-developed build with an imposing appearance

Size of Boxer and Border Collie

For male Border Collies, the height measurement from the withers (the ridge between the shoulder blades) is around 19 to 22 inches. For females, it is between 18 and 21 inches. On its side profile, the body from the shoulder to the buttocks is a bit longer than the height at the withers, with a ratio of about 10:9.

With a Boxer dog, the males usually stand 22 to 25 inches from the shoulder. They could weigh as much as 70 pounds. If you prefer a less stocky build, female Boxers may suit you at just 21 to 23 inches in height and weighing around 60 pounds.

Coats & Colors

Border Collie typically has a long coat that and is commonly black and white. Occasionally some may have a red and white or even a tricolor pattern. Some members of the species may show a merle pattern where the fur has a combination of light and dark pigmentation.

American Boxer lineage boasts a look that is sleek and firm. They also come in two standard colors, fawn and brindle, as identified by the American Kennel Club (AKC) and the American Boxer Club (ABC). The standard marking for these animals is black masks, black masks and white markings, and white markings.

Personality & Temperament of Border Collie vs Boxer

Dog psychology is used to identify different dog personalities. There are 7 different personality traits that were discovered including activity, responsiveness to training, submissiveness, sociability to other people and animals, reactivity or the dog’s reaction to new situations or objects, aggression, and fearfulness.

Family of Boxer vs Border Collie

Boxer looking at its owner

Generally, Border Collies are great companions for households. Not only that they’re great guard dogs but also fun to play with. Nevertheless, to make sure these breeds are content and fulfilled, make sure that you meet their daily living requirements. One thing is for sure though, they are highly interactive and devoted to their families.

You’ll never go wrong in getting a Boxer. They’ve been considered to be the perfect fit for families with kids. There are several reasons why:

  • They have great energy and keep up very well with playful children
  • Can withstand almost anything that your kids do with them
  • Very patient and has a high tolerance for children
  • Shows a great level of affection
  • Very loving dog
  • Protective of family and territory

Kids

It is essential for the owner to ensure a harmonious relationship between a Border Collie and children. Proper socialization and obedience training should be given to make an ideal companion for families and kids. By applying these two approaches, you can reduce the danger of any accidents happening with your kids and your dog.

Boxers tend to be lively and devoted. This is combined with a playful and affectionate nature. If they have been exposed to children from an early age, they typically have good relations with them and have a natural inclination to guard their household.

Other People

With proper training given to a Border Collie, they can be accommodating to guests, friends, and other people. But there are still instances in which they could show hyperactivity. This can make them overstimulated. Thus, even with a friendly nature, strangers should still approach this dog with caution. Unless their owner has given you permission.

Boxers usually have a warm and sociable temperament. They usually welcome strangers. However, they have a high energy level and need to have lots of physical activity in order to stay calm. In the absence of exercise, they might become over-excited or aggressive.

In the same way, if boxers have not received the appropriate training or socialization, they may display aggression based on fear. This can likely happen with people they don’t know and even to kids. It is important to take early action to keep their aggression from being out of control.

If your pooch is already demonstrating such signs, seek an experienced dog trainer who utilizes reward-based, positive training techniques to help in mitigating these issues.

Dogs & Other Animals

Familiarizing your pup with its environment is key to make them interact in a positive and healthy manner. Canines that haven’t been exposed to other animals and people may become scared of new situations, like meeting strangers, being around other animals, or going to unfamiliar locations.

Through purposeful socialization, it’s possible to reduce your dog’s stress, and also decrease the chances of any hostile encounters or behavioral problems.

There are plenty of things you can do as part of your routine. This includes but is not limited to:

  • Going to puppy playdates
  • Visiting dog parks
  • Bring your dog to dog daycare
  • Bringing them on your hike trails
  • Taking them with you when visiting friends

Behaviour Issues

If you just got a canine or are facing behavioral issues with your existing pet, it can be a stressful situation. Before attempting to correct the misbehavior, it is essential to come up with an action plan. Consistency of routines, and early intervention are key to successfully addressing any bad habits your pup may have.

When dogs become bored, they may act out in undesirable ways. To prevent this, you should fill your pet’s day with some sort of entertainment, such as chew toys, exercise, and activities that stimulate their mind. If you see that your dog is not getting enough stimulation or has too much energy, consider adding more activities to their daily routine to help reduce any bad behaviors.

Training & Exercise of Border Collie and Boxer

Border Collies were bred to herd sheep. Thus, they need tons of mental stimulation and exercise to prevent problematic behavior. Because they are a working breed, Border Collies require long walks each day and adequate of playtime to keep them from becoming bored.

Border Collies are particularly responsive to reward-based training approaches.

See to it that you have treats ready at all times. It is essential to invest plenty of time and effort into teaching your Border Collie recall command before allowing them to run off-leash. Their natural desire to chase and herd could put them in danger.

Likewise, Boxers tend to be highly energized, active canines. They adore participating in activities and being engaged in almost everything. They tend to hold onto their pup-like demeanor for longer than most dogs and you may find that your Boxer is rarely relaxed at home.

Your Boxer requires a minimum of two hours of exercise daily. This has to be broken down into a few walks that offer chances to explore and sniff their surroundings. Additionally, your Boxer should be provided with enough time to exercise in a safe place where they can run. While training, make it short for them to fully immerse themselves in the commands you’re teaching them.

Taking Care & Maintenance of Boxer and Border Collie

Taking care of your canine companion can be quite similar to taking care of yourself. Be sure to monitor your pup’s diet, provide him with adequate physical activity, brush his teeth routinely, and don’t hesitate to contact your vet in the event of an emergency.

Additionally, stick to the suggested schedule of examinations and any recommended vaccinations. This will help us to ensure he is healthy and to detect any illnesses that are common for your dog.

Some of the things you must watch out for are:

  • Sudden weight gain or weight loss
  • Moles, bumps, and lumps
  • Mental dullness, excessive sleeping, or lethargy
  • Vomiting
  • Lameness
  • Hair loss
  • Aggression, fearfulness, or any behavioral changes
  • Difficulty in breathing or coughing
  • Straining or inability to urinate
  • Cloudiness, itching, redness, or, any abnormality involving the eyes
  • Pot-belly appearance
  • Itchy skin
  • Shaking or scratching the head, or ear discharge
  • Lumpy or swollen gums
  • Foul odor in the mouth
  • Sores or blisters between the toes

This also proves why acquiring pet health insurance is also essential to fully ensure your dog is covered. Eventually, your dog will require medical exams and procedures, and pet health insurance can help with the expense of these.

Grooming of Border Collie vs Boxer

The majority of people tend to think of pet grooming in terms of pet tools such as bows and brushes, or of having to chase their pets. Unfortunately, there are some who mistakenly believe that grooming isn’t essential at all when in fact, it is a significant part of a pet’s general welfare and health.

Maintaining proper pet grooming has much more benefits than just having an aesthetically pleasing pet. Regular grooming helps reduce shedding, fend off any fleas or ticks, and, most importantly, identify any underlying health conditions. This will enable you to take your pet for medical treatment as soon as possible, allowing for the most effective solution.

If you’re serious about your pet’s coat looking its best, you’ll need to put in some effort in grooming. You don’t need to give them a full-on bath every time. However, you should at least give them a good brush. After all, you can’t expect your furry friend to be able to groom themselves.

Experienced pet owners know that brushing your dog will bring tons of benefits. Not only will it help create a stronger connection between pet and owner, but it will also prevent the formation of mats in their fur. Mats will lead to scratches and sores, as well as tangles that can be distressing and painful for the pet.

Shedding

Border Collies are moderate shedders. They have a two-layered coat. In terms of shedding, it implies they will likely “blow coat” maybe once or twice a year. Shedding will most likely happen around springtime and autumn.

This period is known as “shedding season”. This may cause a sudden rise in the amount of fur that your Collie sheds. It usually lasts for a few weeks and can be kept in check with a suitable grooming regimen.

Generally, Boxers are thought to be tidy canines with little maintenance. Boxers have a single layer of short fur. In terms of shedding, these dogs are not heavy shedders. Instead, they tend to lose some fur throughout the year. However, when the weather becomes hot their shedding may increase slightly and you may need to spend some extra time cleaning up the fur in summer.

Health of Boxer vs Border Collie

Vaccination is the most secure approach to ensure the well-being of your dog. Shots like rabies, parvo, and distemper, can be avoided through immunization. The vaccine timetable and the shots they require may differ. Per your dog’s medical condition and your location, talk to your vet about what to get.

Obviously, regardless if you have a Boxer or Border Collie, see to it that you provide them with appropriate diet and nutrition. Don’t forget, attend to their health needs too.

Life Span of Border Collie and Boxer

Under normal conditions, a Border Collie and Boxer dog can live for over a decade. Your dog’s lifespan is completely dependent on how you’d treat them. Unless they suffer from serious medical conditions, your relationship and treatment of your dog directly affect their overall welfare

Diet & Nutrition

giving dogs proper diet

It is essential to provide your Border Collie with a nutritious, well-rounded diet. This can include uncooked foods like meat, vegetables, bones, fish, muscle meats, and eggs. Exclude grains as it can be hard for them to digest, and many are sensitive to them.

It is vital to make sure your dog maintains a healthy weight. Boxers, in particular, are known to gain weight easily. Thus, their diet should incorporate proteins, fats, vegetables, and ground bones that are full of essential vitamins and minerals. These foods promote optimal performance and health.

Health Issues

When you have a Border Collie and they grew too fast, there’s a chance that cartilage in their joints might not develop properly. This is otherwise known as OCD or Osteochondritis Dissecans.

Border Collies are commonly affected by hypothyroidism. It’s a condition in which the body produces insufficient amounts of thyroid hormone which can show signs like:

  • Flaking skin
  • Bald patches
  • Increased susceptibility to skin disorders
  • Increased weight
  • Nervousness

If you notice that your Border Collie shows these signs or other behavioral changes, consult your vet.

Similar to Border Collie, Boxers are vulnerable to certain health issues too, some of which are:

  • Degenerative Myelopathy – this condition impacts both the lower spinal cord and the nervous system. Sooner or later, this leads to either full or partial immobility of the lower limbs.
  • Cardiomyopathy – this disrupts the heart’s capability to effectively pump blood. Boxers affected by this condition are typically at higher risk of sudden heart failure.

Between the two dogs, there is one health condition that’s fairly common to them which is hip dysplasia. This causes arthritis due to improper development of the hip joints.

Cost of Boxer and Border Collie

The cost for a healthy Boxer puppy can range from $1,000 to $3,500, while a Border Collie pup can typically be bought from a reliable breeder for $800 and $1,500. If you are searching for a puppy that can be used in competitions, anticipate paying more. Certain aspects that may cause the price of a dog to vary include its age, the breeder’s credibility, and its physical appearance.

Puppies of Border Collie vs Boxer

If you own a dog with a typical life expectancy of 10 years, you can expect to invest roughly $19,000 for its care. However, the amount expended can vary significantly depending on their size and health. Part of the breakdown for the $19K includes:

  • Food – according to a survey, the approximate value of treats is $81, and $287 for food.
  • Toys – the average cost of buying dog toys are $56.
  • Pet services – there are different services you can get for your dog like dog walking, sitting, and training. However, among these services, only grooming is what the studies have a figure for which is $228 per year.

Breeders & Centers

If you were looking to give a dog a second chance, there are lots of facilities that have Border Collie and Boxer. When taking a pet from a shelter, they’re usually vaccinated and spayed or neutered. Normally, the cost ranges from $100 to $350.

Conclusion: Which Is Better, Boxer or Border Collie?

Deciding whether you should get a Border Collie or a Boxer is a tough one. Both dogs are great with family and children, assuming they’re given proper socialization. Also, these two are very affectionate and loyal to their owners. Training and exercise on the other hand are none negotiable. It’s important for these dogs to remain healthy and happy. Grooming is not much of an issue either. Border Collie and Boxer require little of it.

Perhaps, the deciding factor in getting one lies in their physical appearance. If you want a dog that has a double coat and a wide selection of colors with a jaunty look, the Border Collie is definitely the one for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a “muscular” build coupled with a gentle look, then the Boxer may just be what you want. After all, the decision of which dog will be based on your personal preference.

Leave a Comment