Comparing Border Collies and Newfoundland

The Border Collie is famous for its remarkable intelligence, endless vitality, and ease of training. They enjoy staying active and mentally engaged, showing deep affection for their family and a herding instinct, which makes them outstanding working dogs. In contrast, Newfoundland dogs are renowned for their gentle and loyal nature and impressive strength. They make fantastic family pets and excel in various work or play tasks.

Characteristics of a Border Collies and Newfoundlands

The Border Collie breed has exceptional qualities, boasting high intelligence and boundless energy. Their alertness is unparalleled, always remaining prepared for any task and thriving on mental and physical stimulation. Remarkably intelligent, these dogs are renowned for their quick learning ability and responsiveness to even the subtlest commands.

Driven by a strong work ethic, these dogs excel in many activities, including herding, agility, and obedience. The instinct to herd is ingrained in them, leading them to gather and chase objects. Moreover, their affectionate and loyal nature shines through as they form deep bonds with their human companions, relishing the role of a devoted and cherished partner.

The Newfoundland is a majestic and gentle dog breed known for its affectionate and loyal temperament. Originally bred for demanding tasks, they excel in land and water activities, displaying impressive capabilities and a strong work ethic.

With their intelligence and eagerness to please, Newfoundland dogs adapt well to various situations and are quick learners. They are skilled swimmers fondly called “pack horses” due to their easy ability to carry loads through the water.

Despite their considerable strength, they have a calm and friendly demeanor, making them delightful companions for families and other pets. The Newfoundland’s warm, approachable nature and hardworking traits make them beloved and versatile companions.

History of Breeds

The Border Collie’s roots can be traced back to the Anglo-Scottish border region, which was highly valued for its exceptional herding abilities. The breed’s ancestors are believed to include Roman drover dogs, which were brought to the British Isles during the Roman occupation. These early dogs interbred with local herding breeds and later might have been influenced by the Finnish Spitz, contributing to the development of the Border Collie’s keen herding instincts.

The Border Collie was officially recognized by the Kennel Club in 1976. Since then, its popularity has grown as a working dog for farmers and a versatile and accomplished competitor in various dog sports.

Newfoundland dog is shrouded in mystery, with several theories about its origins. One of the prevailing theories is that the breed descended from indigenous working dogs of Newfoundland and Labrador. These dogs might have interbred with European dogs brought by fishermen and explorers, including breeds like the Great Pyrenees, Portuguese Water Dog, and Maremma Sheepdog. Some historians also suggest that Vikings might have contributed to the breed’s ancestry during their expeditions to North America.

Newfoundlands faced challenges during wartime, particularly during World War I and World War II, when their numbers declined. However, since the 1950s, their popularity has steadily risen, and they are now cherished as loving family pets and working dogs.

Appearance Comparison between Border Collies and Newfoundland

When comparing the appearance of Border Collies and Newfoundland, it becomes evident that these two dog breeds are quite distinct. The Border Collie is a medium-sized dog. Its defining feature is its thick, double coat that can be smooth or rough, often seen in black and white patterns. The head is relatively small with a long, narrow muzzle, complemented by medium-sized, erect, or semi-erect ears.

Newfoundland stands in stark contrast to a large dog. Its most notable characteristic is its thick, water-resistant double coat, which can come in black, brown, or gray. The Newfoundland has an extensive head and a short, broad muzzle, giving it a robust appearance. Its ears are small and hang close to the head, adding to its gentle and expressive demeanor.

These differences in appearance result from the distinct roles these breeds historically played. The Border Collie, renowned for its intelligence and herding abilities, needed agility and a keen sense of sight to manage livestock effectively. Newfoundland, initially bred for water rescue and assistance in fishing, required a sturdy build and a thick coat to thrive in cold waters.

Size

Whether you’re drawn to the Border Collie’s agility and attentive nature or the Newfoundland’s gentle and robust disposition, knowing their size and weight can help you find the perfect furry companion for your family.

Interested individuals should consider these significant disparities when choosing, as the Border Collie’s smaller size and lighter weight make it a more manageable option for those seeking a medium-sized companion. In contrast, the Newfoundland’s substantial size and weight make it a better fit for individuals or families looking for a larger and more robust canine companion.

Coats & Colors

Every Border Collie has a thick double coat. It comprises of an undercoat and topcoat. The undercoat’s purpose is to keep these dogs dry and warm while herding sheep. As for the topcoat, this is specifically the one that has two different types, the rough and smooth coat.

Smooth coat – smooth coated Collies have the recessive gene of the rough coats. So when the dogs are bred to rough coated dogs, the smooth coat carrying the rough gene has a 50 percent chance to produce either a smooth or rough coat.

Rough coat – this type of Border Collie coat is the more dominant of the two. Once a rough-coated dog is bred to another rough-coated dog, it will yield a 100% rough coat. This is why you’d often see Collies with this type of coating. Furthermore, these rough coats have wooly and dense undercoats accompanied by long guard hairs. Thus, they usually have a strong resemblance to Nordic ancestry. However, some coats are quite thick, which makes it a challenge even for experienced groomers.

The American Kennel Club (AKC) approves various coat colors for Border Collies. The traditional color for a Border Collie is black and white. There are other notable colors that people loved including:

• Blue
• Blue merle
• Red
• Red merle
• Gold

On the other hand, non-standard and rare coat colors and patterns may still occur in purebred Border Collies. Thus, you may see some Collies sporting tricolor, sable, and merle.

It’s essential to note that a Border Collie may not necessarily have an AKC-approved coat color and can still be a purebred breed member. Coat colors can also influence the colorations of the eyes, nose, and paw pads.

As for Newfoundland dogs, the Newfoundland Club of America’s breed standard recognizes four acceptable colors: black, brown, gray, and white and black. And likewise, Border Collies also have a double coat. This consists of a dense, soft undercoat and a long outer coarse coat. A distinct feature of this breed’s coat is its water resistance. If you touch it, you’ll feel it has this oily characteristic, responsible for its water-resistant quality. This makes these dogs perfect for water activities. At the same time, it keeps them dry and warm in cold weather or wet conditions.

Personality & Temperament Comparison

The Border Collie and Newfoundland are two distinct breeds with different energy levels and temperaments. The Border Collie is highly energetic, motivated, and agile, demanding significant physical activity and mental stimulation. They are intensely loyal, affectionate, and loving towards their handlers but may be reserved or shy around strangers.

Newfoundland is even-tempered, patient, and gentle, needing less exercise and mental engagement. They are also affectionate and loyal but might exhibit aloofness towards unfamiliar people. After all, each dog’s personality will be influenced by various factors such as:

• Genetics
• Socialization
• Training

Family

Newfoundlands are renowned for their gentle and affectionate nature, making them ideal for families seeking a loving and devoted companion. Their calm and patient demeanor enhances their suitability as household pets. With their loyalty and protective instincts towards their loved ones, Newfoundlands can be a valuable addition to any family that can accommodate their size and provide the necessary care.

Border Collies can also make fantastic family pets, provided their specific needs are met. Their energetic and even-tempered nature makes them well-suited for family life, and their eagerness to please enhances their adaptability. They excel as watchdogs, offering the household an added layer of security. However, potential owners should be prepared to cater to their high exercise and mental stimulation requirements. Families with an active lifestyle and ample time to devote to their care will find Border Collies wonderful companions, fostering a mutually beneficial bond.

Kids

Newfoundlands are renowned for their gentle and patient nature, making them excellent companions for children. They are often affectionately called “the nanny dog” because they can be great with kids. Their calm and docile demeanor creates a peaceful and safe environment for children, and they are known to tolerate rough play, hair-pulling, and tugging without reacting negatively. With their strength, Newfoundlands provide a sense of security for kids. However, it is crucial to supervise interactions between dogs and children to ensure safety and teach proper ways of interacting with pets.

It advised that your kids are at least 6 years old and above who can keep up with a Border Collie’s need for exercise and mental stimulation as these pets are highly energetic and strong-willed.

Early socialization and exposure to kids during their puppy stage can help Border Collies become gentle, loyal, and playful companions for children. However, it’s essential to consider factors like the age of the children, the dog’s energy level, and the necessity for proper training and socialization to ensure a harmonious relationship.

Other People

Newfoundlands are widely recognized for their friendly and affectionate nature, happily engaging with almost anyone, even unfamiliar people. However, it’s essential to acknowledge that some Newfoundlands might be protective of their homes and show some reservations towards strangers.

Pet experts rate Newfoundlands around 3 out of 5 on the friendliness scale towards strangers. Early socialization is crucial to maintain their amicable demeanor, as it helps them become at ease around unfamiliar faces.

As for Border Collies, they generally exhibit friendliness towards strangers. Nonetheless, factors such as socialization are pivotal in shaping their friendliness. Border Collies might develop shyness, distrust, and wariness toward strangers without proper early socialization. To counter this, exposing them to bustling environments from a young age and encouraging interactions with different people can aid in fostering their comfort and confidence around strangers.

Dogs & Other Animals

Newfoundlands are generally friendly breeds that usually get along well with other dogs and animals. However, caution is advised when introducing them to new pets, especially males, as occasional aggression or dominance may occur. Training them on neutral territory and monitoring their behavior is best to ensure a harmonious relationship. Both Border Collies and Newfoundlands can be amicable with other pets when given proper socialization and care.

Border Collies are generally friendly with other dogs, but proper socialization during their early stages is crucial for their well-being. Dogs with similar personalities are more likely to get along with them. While Border Collies are herding dogs and are used to being around other animals, their herding instinct might cause friction with other pets. However, they can get along well with other animals if properly socialized and trained.

Behavior Issues

Like any breed, Newfoundlands can develop behavior issues that should be addressed early on. Common problems include jumping, barking, counter-surfing, leash pulling, digging, separation anxiety, resource guarding, selective hearing, prey drive, and mouthing. These issues can start during adolescence and may worsen if not handled properly.

Border Collies can lead to destructive and obsessive behaviors if not adequately exercised and mentally stimulated. Some of the common behavioral issues in Border Collies include aggression when frustrated, excessive barking due to boredom, chewing and digging out of boredom, and their natural herding instincts manifesting in herding behaviors towards children and even cars.

Dealing with behavioral issues in your beloved dogs can be a manageable task, and fortunately, these seem to be minor concerns that can be easily addressed with ample time and attention. However, in more serious cases, seeking the assistance of a professional dog trainer is advisable. A skilled trainer can effectively tame your dog and instill proper behavior.

1. Expertise: The expertise of a professional dog trainer plays a crucial role in resolving your dog’s behavior problems. With their wealth of knowledge and experience, they can skillfully identify the root causes of your dog’s issues and develop a tailored training plan to address them effectively.
2. Time and Money: By opting for a professional dog trainer’s services, you save time and money in the long run. Their expert guidance ensures you receive prompt answers to your questions and achieve faster results in your dog’s training journey.
3. Specific Problems: When faced with specific problems like excessive barking, jumping, or pulling on the leash, a professional dog trainer is an ideal resource. They can recommend and demonstrate the best techniques to eliminate these unwanted behaviors, providing practical solutions for your unique concerns.

Training & Exercise

For Newfoundlands, 30 to 60 minutes of daily exercise and activity is recommended. This includes a daily walk and additional free play and strengthening exercises. Avoid high-impact activities to prevent joint pain. Positive and consistent training is essential for these intelligent and trainable dogs, establishing good manners and obedience from an early age.

Regular exercise is crucial to keep a Border Collie healthy, fit, and mentally stimulated. Recommended activities include playing fetch, going for long walks and runs, agility training, swimming (if they enjoy it), participating in herding trials, and engaging in interactive games like hide-and-seek and puzzle toys. Providing 1 to 2 hours of daily exercise is ideal, but adjusting based on individual factors such as age, health, and energy levels is essential.

Taking Care & Maintenance of Border Collies and Newfoundlands

Newfoundlands possess a dense, medium-length double coat, providing effective insulation. Regular brushing is vital to eliminate loose fur and prevent tangles. To avoid ear infections, it is advised to clean their ears regularly using specialized pet ear cleaners. Keeping their nails trimmed is also essential. As for bathing, a frequency of every one to two months is recommended.

Border Collies boast a double coat, consisting of a long, smooth, and feathered outer layer, along with a shorter, rougher undercoat. Maintaining a healthy and shiny coat requires bathing every six to eight weeks or as needed. However, it’s crucial to note that they require substantial exercise and mental stimulation. This breed may not be the best fit if you’re seeking a laid-back, low-attention dog.

Grooming Difference

Proper grooming is essential to keep your Border Collie looking and feeling their best. This intelligent and active breed requires special attention to its coat, which tends to shed. When bathing your Border Collie, start with a general cleaning shampoo, and if your dog has allergies or skin irritations, follow up with a medicated shampoo. Ensure to finish with a hydrating conditioner to maintain a healthy and shiny coat.

You can tidy up your dog’s appearance by trimming the excess hair on their feet and around the back of their ears. Keeping their eyes clean is vital, as they are prone to eye problems. Gently wipe around their eyes with a damp cloth to remove any debris. Also, regularly trim their nails to avoid discomfort and brush their teeth to prevent dental issues.

By adhering to a consistent grooming routine and showing your Border Collie the care they deserve, you’ll ensure they look and feel their best every season.

Properly grooming a Newfoundland dog is crucial to maintaining its plush coat. Regular brushing is a key part of the process, as it helps to remove loose undercoat. Begin by brushing from the head and work down to the shoulders, then proceed to the legs and tail. Utilize a large, slicker brush to gently remove any mats, employing slow, short strokes toward the hair growth. To ensure a thorough job, use a wide-toothed comb and glide through the coat with ease down to the skin. When grooming such breed, pay special attention to areas like the:

• Neck
• Chest
• Hindquarters

These specific regions are particularly prone to accumulating extra fur. Following the brushing phase, the next step involves thoroughly drying the coat. Run your hands across the entire coat surface, inspecting for any irregularities in fur thickness. If you detect any, continue brushing and combing those spots until they reach a well-groomed state. For a final check, utilize a sturdy slicker brush across the entire coat; you should observe minimal to no hair remaining on the brush, signifying the successful completion of the grooming process.

By following these grooming steps with care, you can keep your beloved Newfoundland looking and feeling their best, showcasing their beautiful plush coat and ensuring a happy and healthy companion for years.

Shedding

Newfoundland dogs are well-known for being high-shedding breeds, and their shedding occurs with significant frequency. As proud owners of Newfoundlands, part of ownership is to be prepared for the constant shedding they experience. While shedding can be more intense during certain seasons, their fur will continuously be shedding throughout the year.

In terms of pups, as they begin growing, they shed a bit of their undercoat around five months old. While they are considered seasonal shedders, it is common to see their fur shedding regularly. The heaviest shedding period typically occurs during spring. This is when they shed their winter coats to prepare for the warmer summer months.

Regular grooming and brushing can help manage shedding and keep your home cleaner. Embrace the uniqueness of your dog’s coat and ensure they receive the care they need to stay comfortable and healthy despite their shedding tendencies.

Border Collies, a long-haired double-coated breed, have moderate shedding throughout the year. However, their shedding can increase significantly during fall and spring as they transition between their winter and summer coats. Regularly brushing them two to three times a week can help manage shedding.

Health Comparison

Border Collies and Newfoundland are typically healthy breeds. Prospective owners should consider genetic testing when selecting a new puppy to identify potential genetic disorders. Regular veterinary check-ups and preventive measures like vaccinations are crucial for maintaining their health. Of course, it will also be important that these dogs receive proper exercise and diet to ensure they will be free from any sickness and illness known to each breed. A responsibility that their owners should provide.

Life Span

Border Collies typically have a lifespan ranging from 10 to 17 years, with the norm being around 12 years and rare exceptions living up to 18 years. Similarly, other breeds of similar size generally have a median life expectancy of 12 to 13 years. On the contrary, Healthy Newfoundlands usually live for an average of 8 to 10 years, with rare cases of reaching the age of 15.

While these are statistics data gathered from dog owners of such breeds, there are certain ways that you can do to ensure that your pet is going to live a full life.

Diet & Nutrition

To ensure the proper dietary needs of Newfoundland dogs, it’s vital to provide a well-balanced and nutritious diet. This includes high-quality animal-based protein sources like chicken, duck, eggs, turkey, lamb, beef, and organ meat, all of which are essential for healthy tissue growth. Additionally, incorporating carbohydrates into their diet is also important.

This is a big part of ensuring that your dog receives enough energy. Therefore, make sure to include wholesome options like sweet potatoes, brown rice, and peas in their meals.

However, before making significant dietary changes, it is advisable to consult with a veterinarian or a canine nutritionist to ensure the diet aligns with your dog’s specific needs and health requirements. Following these dietary recommendations can support your beloved Newfoundland’s overall health and well-being, providing them with the nourishment they need for a happy and active life.

Regarding the dietary needs of Border Collies, providing a well-balanced diet is a top priority. This guarantees that they will get the nutrients necessary for their growth and development. Some owners opt for a raw diet, incorporating:

• Raw meat
• Vegetables
• Meaty bones
• Fish
• Muscle meats
• Dairy products like eggs

However, if choosing complete dried foods, make sure they form a significant part of the Border Collie’s diet, as they offer a balanced mix of nutrients.

A diet containing 12% fat and 22% protein is typically suitable for adult Border Collies. Additionally, incorporating fruits and vegetables into their meals ensures they receive essential vitamins and minerals for overall health and well-being.

On the flip side, certain foods like tomatoes, garlic, mushrooms, avocados, and corn should be avoided, as they can be toxic to Border Collies. Adhering to these dietary recommendations can help your energetic and intelligent Border Collie thrive with the nourishment they need to lead a happy and healthy life.

Health Issues

As responsible pet owners, we must know about potential health concerns affecting our furry companions. By understanding and recognizing these health issues, you can take the necessary steps to keep your four-legged friends happy, healthy, and thriving throughout their lives. First, let’s find out the health issues that are common to each breed:

While learning these health concerns to our dogs is important, it will be a lot more helpful if you, as owners, go the extra mile to understand how each affects your dog.

Common Health Issues in the Newfoundland breed:

• Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus: This is a serious form of bloating that occurs suddenly and requires urgent medical attention. It happens when the stomach fills up with gas or food, leading to pressure and expansion.
• Hip Dysplasia and Elbow Dysplasia: These developmental issues can result in joint problems, lameness, and arthritis.
• Dilated Cardiomyopathy: A heart condition that may lead to heart failure and sudden death, more prevalent in male Newfoundlands.
• Eye Problems: They are prone to entropion, a condition where the eyelid rolls inward, causing discomfort and irritation.
• Cancers: Unfortunatley, these dogs have an increased risk of various cancers, including osteosarcoma (bone cancer).
• Blood Disorders: The breed may be susceptible to blood disorders, like cystinuria, a genetic condition that can lead to bladder stones.

Common Health Issues in Border Collies:

• Hip Dysplasia: The most commonly observed health issue in Border Collies is a condition where the hip joint’s ball and socket don’t fit properly, causing friction between the bones. This friction leads to inflammation, pain, and can eventually result in arthritis if left untreated.
• Epilepsy: Another prevalent inherited condition among Border Collies is epilepsy, which frequently manifests in seizures as its primary effect.
• Collie Eye Anomaly: an inherited anomaly in puppies that leads to abnormal eye growth, typically undetectable until they reach 3 to 7 months old.
• Multidrug Resistance Mutation: An abnormality or genetic variation that makes them particularly sensitive to the adverse effects of drugs commonly prescribed by veterinarians for various medical conditions.
• Dental Problems: Border Collies have a tendency to be fond of chewing and using their mouths frequently, which can result in the accumulation of tartar and plaque near their gums. This may lead to dental issues like gum disease and tooth decay.

It’s crucial to remember that not all dogs within these breeds will develop these issues, and responsible breeding practices can help reduce the risk of genetic diseases. Regular veterinary checkups, a balanced diet, and proper exercise are essential for maintaining overall health in Newfoundland and Border Collie breeds.

Cost of breeding a Border Collies and Newfoundland

The expenses associated with breeding different dog breeds can fluctuate significantly due to various factors. For instance, when considering Newfoundland dogs, costs can vary based on the breeder’s reputation, geographical location, and the dog’s overall quality. Similarly, the breeding cost for Border Collies may be influenced by factors such as the breeder’s credibility, location, pedigree, and even the dog’s coat color.

Puppies

The cost of adopting a Newfoundland breed puppy from a rescue range from $300 to $500 while purchasing one can vary between $500 and $2,500. Superior pedigree and top breed lines may raise the price to $3,000 to $4,000. On average, you can expect to pay $1,200 to $3,000, with a sticker price of $1,000 to $2,000.

For Border Collie puppies, the cost from a reputable breeder typically falls between $700 and $2,000, but show-quality or blue merle variations can go up to $4,500. More affordable options may be available through local shelters, where Border Collie mixes might be cheaper.

Breeders & Centers

The cost of Border Collie puppies from reputable breeders can vary based on factors such as champion bloodlines, AKC registration, and show quality. Prices typically range from $700 to $4,500 or more. For non-registered “working line” Border Collies, the cost is generally lower, ranging from $275 to $675.

The average cost of a Newfoundland dog is approximately $500 to $2,500, depending on lineage and coat. For finding reputable Newfoundland breeders, it is recommended to check the NCA (Newfoundland Club of America) breeders list.

While it adds a touch of integrity and legitimacy to get a Border Collie or Newfoundland from breeders and centers, you must know that not all parties are the same. Unfortunately, there are still some bad eggs that you have to be aware of. To make sure that you’ll be able to distance yourself from these entities, consider the following points:

1. American Kennel Club (AKC) Marketplace: Utilize the AKC marketplace to connect with responsible breeders. However, be diligent and conduct thorough research before finalizing any commitments.
2. Breed Clubs: Reach out to each breed’s national club, also known as the Parent Club, for a reliable breeder referral. These clubs offer valuable breed-specific information and can help you find reputable breeders in your area.
3. Referrals: Seek referrals from trusted sources like your veterinarian, friends, or family members who have acquired puppies from responsible breeders. Personal references can provide invaluable insights and guidance in your search for a reputable breeder.

Which Is Better, Border Collies or Newfoundland?

When comparing the Border Collie and the Newfoundland, both breeds have unique qualities that can make them excellent companions. Still, the better decision will be primarily based on individual preferences and specific needs.

Border Collies are highly intelligent, energetic, and enthusiastic working dogs. They are known for their agility and trainability, making them ideal for active owners who enjoy engaging in various activities with their pets. On the other hand, Newfoundlands are gentle giants characterized by their calm and patient nature. They are affectionate and excellent with families, making them well-suited for households seeking a more laid-back and loving companion.

In terms of coat and colors, Newfoundlands often have solid black, brown, or gray coats. With their water-resistant double coat, Newfoundlands require more intensive grooming to prevent matting and maintain their coats’ health. On the other hand, Border Collies have a dense, medium-length double coat, requiring regular brushing to manage shedding.

Border Collies are generally good with kids and family members, particularly when well-socialized from a young age. They tend to be more reserved around strangers and may exhibit herding behaviors due to their working background. However, their high energy levels may require careful supervision around younger children. On the other hand, Newfoundlands are incredibly gentle and patient, making them excellent with kids and other pets. Their calm demeanor and protective instincts contribute to their reputation as nanny dogs.

The ideal choice between these two breeds can vary depending on the owner’s lifestyle and experience with dogs. Border Collies require an owner who can provide ample mental and physical stimulation to keep them happy and balanced. They thrive with experienced handlers who understand their need for mental challenges and consistent training. Newfoundlands, being more laid-back, are generally more manageable for first-time dog owners as long as they can handle the larger size and grooming requirements.

Whichever breed you choose, responsible ownership, socialization, and proper training will play crucial roles in fostering a strong bond and a happy, well-adjusted canine companion.