Border Collie vs Harrier
Breed Compatibility
76% Compatible
Energy Level
Border Collie: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Harrier: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Very Compatible
Trainability
Border Collie: Eager to Please1.0
Harrier: Easy Training0.8
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Border Collie: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Harrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Border Collie3/5
Harrier5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Border Collie3/5
Harrier5/5
Good with Strangers
Border Collie4/5
Harrier4/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Border Collie
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
CEA: Eye development disorder
MDR1: Drug sensitivity gene
TNS: Neurological condition
CL: Neurological disorder
Epilepsy: Seizure disorder
Harrier
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation issue
Epilepsy: Neurological seizure disorder
Eye Problems: Various vision concerns
Hypothyroidism: Thyroid hormone deficiency
Bloat: Gastric dilatation-volvulus risk
Ear Infections: Common due to drop ears
Pros & Cons Comparison
Border Collie
Pros
Extremely intelligent
Highly trainable
Athletic and agile
Loyal and devoted
Excellent working dog
Cons
Requires extensive exercise
May be too intense for novice owners
Strong herding instinct
Needs constant mental stimulation
Can be overly sensitive
Harrier
Pros
Excellent family companion
Good with children
Athletic and energetic
Social and friendly
Low grooming needs
Cons
High exercise requirements
Strong hunting instincts
Can be vocal
Needs secure fencing
Not apartment suitable
Border Collie Fun Fact
Border Collies can learn to recognize over 1,000 words and can understand complex multi-step commands.
Harrier Fun Fact
Harriers were specifically bred to hunt hares at a pace that allowed hunters to follow on foot rather than horseback.
Heritage & Purpose
Border Collie
Origin:
Developed in the border country between Scotland and England during the 1700s, these dogs revolutionized sheep herding with their distinctive 'eye' and precise control of livestock.
Harrier
Origin:
Developed in medieval England during the 13th century, these skilled pack hunters excelled at tracking hares. Their size made them ideal for hunters following on foot rather than horseback.
Special Considerations
Border Collie
Requires extensive daily exercise, mental stimulation, and consistent training. Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Early socialization crucial.
Harrier
Requires secure fencing due to strong hunting instincts. Weekly grooming maintains coat health. Daily exercise essential for physical and mental well-being.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
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