Judy Taylor
The Scottish herding dogs are hard to beat in terms of discipline, endurance, and athleticism. But what about the characteristics of a border collie mix?
What is a Border Collie Mix?
A border collie mixed breed is a dog that has the genes of a border collie and another breed of dog. Particularly common combinations are:
- Border collie labrador mix
- Border collie golden retriever mix
- Border Collie-German Shepherd mixed breed
- Border Collie Husky mixed breed
- Border Collie Australian Shepherd mix
- Border Collie Jack Russel mixed breed
- Border Collie-Beagle mix
- Border Collie Bernese Mountain Mix
- Border Collie-Dachshund Mixed Breed
- Border Collie-Sheltie mixed breed
The characteristics of a mixed breed dog are difficult to predict in advance. It is only in adulthood that it is possible to say with certainty which genes have prevailed in a border collie hybrid. Hybrid dogs, therefore, have some surprises in store for their humans during the puppy and young dog season.
Before adopting it, it is worthwhile to get an overview of both dog breeds. The information obtained will facilitate training and communication with the mixed-breed dog in the later stages.
Border Collie Mix: Size & Appearance
What does the Border Collie bring with him when crossing? On the one hand, there is a shoulder height of 48 to 55 cm and a weight of 15 to 20 kg. On the other hand, they fascinate Collie lovers with their either half-length thick fur or with their stick hair.
Many purebred Collies have black and white fur, but the breed standard also allows black and brown or three-colored fur. The eye color is often brown, although the Merle-colored Collies also have blue eyes.
The diversity of eye and coat colors makes it difficult to narrow down the appearance of border collie mongrels. Then there are the many mating partners who can be arranged with him.
One component can, however, be narrowed down well: Most collie mixed-breed dogs such as the Borador or the Border Beagle reach medium size. Exceptions are of course crossbreeds with Dachshunds, Jack Russel Terriers, or Bernese Mountain Dogs.
Border Collie Mix: Temperament
If a Border Collie crossbreed is born, its temperament and temperament can develop in the direction of a Border Collie or another breed of dog. The Scottish Sheepdogs have the following characteristics:
- intelligent
- affectionate
- playful
- active
- shy of strangers
Border Collie Mix: Health
The rough border area between Scotland and England and the exhaustive herding of a herd – with this constellation many assume a four-legged friend with robust health. In fact, the Border Collie, and thus also a Border Collie mix, is susceptible to some diseases.
- Hip dysplasia
- Epilepsy
- Eye problems
- Gastric torsion
All Collies and close relatives should be tested for the MDR1 gene defect before mating. Carriers of such a genetic defect should be excluded from breeding. Otherwise, the offspring will have to struggle with hypersensitivity to certain drugs, which can also be fatal.
The life expectancy of a border collie mix:
Purebred Border Collies live on average 13 to 16 years old. In the case of a border collie mix, another dog breed comes into play, which can lengthen or shorten the life expectancy of the mongrel. In addition to genetic predispositions, husbandry – especially good nutrition and care – also contribute to a long life.
How Do I Raise a Border Collie Mix?
Border Collies amaze their people with their intelligence and learn accordingly quickly. But that is only one side of the coin. Occasionally, they use their minds to question commands. This behavior can also be noticeable in a collie mix. Reliable basic obedience should be worked towards, particularly during puberty.
It is therefore important to train gently with the new family member from the beginning, but with the necessary consistency. In addition to treats, other rewards can also be used. Since Border Collies are considered playful, some hybrid dogs can also be lured out of the reserve with dog toys.
Border Collie Mixed Breed: Attitude
The half-breed has a tendency to work and to think independently. This is no coincidence. Ultimately, the border collie was assigned a demanding job as a herding dog. A border collie mixed breed should regularly have the opportunity to use his intelligence and act out his will to work in his home. It is therefore a perfect fit for dynamic people who do not shy away from varied training units.
In many constellations, a border collie mix is suitable as a family dog. Especially if the Golden Retriever, Labrador Retriever, or Bernese Mountain Dog, who are very fond of children, are involved in the crossing. However, caution applies to an innate herding instinct, which can also occur when crossing with retrievers or terriers. When romping around with children, make sure that the dog does not take the scepter in hand.
Dog Sports for a Border Collie Mix
Purebred Border Collies achieve top performances in agility. This dynamic dog sport not only requires a responsive body but also good obedience. If a border collie mix has both, agility is a suitable outlet for him to get rid of excess energy.
In addition, for mixed breed dogs that are similar to the Border Collie, flyball, dog frisbee or tournament dog sports are possible. When crossbred with retrievers, there may be a penchant for swimming, while many border husky crossbreeds enjoy draft dog sports such as canicross.
In a border collie mix, the rest periods are just as important as the sporting activities. Otherwise, the sports cannons show hyperactive and nervous behavior.
Does a Border Collie Mixed Breed Need a Garden?
Housing in the city is compatible for some Collie hybrids with sufficient activity in the fresh air. A garden in which he can play sniffing or thinking games every day and run around remains the more suitable choice for most border collie mixed breeds.
In some constellations, even more than one house with a garden is appropriate. A farm with animals to herd is an ideal home for mixed breeds who come very close in temperament to a Collie from the working line.
Border Collie Australian Shepherd mix
The combination of the two most popular herding dogs: Australian Shepherds and Border Collies are intelligent, active, and playful. In short: your popularity is more than justified! This hybrid dog, called “Border Aussie” or “Aussie Collie” in the USA, is ideal for dynamic people. In other words: hikers, adventurous people, or outdoor sports enthusiasts will find it the ideal four-legged friend.
Labrador Border Collie Mix (Borador)
A friend to steal horses: The affectionate and hardworking Borador loves to work with his human in a team. Activities include tracking, trips to swimming areas, and obedience. In addition, Labrador Retrievers are known for their friendly and child-loving nature. This pleasant side can also come to the fore in a border collie mix.
Border Collie Golden Retriever Mix
Both herding dogs and retrievers are popular companions for athletic people. The combination of Border Collie and Golden Retriever creates a four-legged friend who clearly prefers long walks in nature to relaxed afternoons on the couch. Only after sufficient activity does the Border Collie-Golden-Retriever-Mix show a mind that exudes a lot of calm and balance.
Border Collie Sheepdog Mix
What does this mix inherit from its parents? Exactly, the will to work! If someone decides in favor of a border collie-sheepdog mixed breed, he asks himself in advance what activities he can offer him. Training to become a rescue dog or man trailer is also conceivable. One thing is certain: boredom will be extremely rare with this combination.
Border Collie Husky Mix
For many, the huskies are majestic four-legged friends full of pride and authenticity. When a border collie comes into play, puppies see the world that will later grow into athletic beauties. But the choice of a dog should never be made on the basis of external characteristics. Because a border collie-husky mix is demanding, both in terms of upbringing and the level of activity.
Border Collie Jack Russel Mix
Most dog lovers know that the Jack Russel Terrier is not a lap dog. Despite his petite stature, the low-legged terrier is difficult to tire. Therefore, the nature of a Border Collie fits well with that of a Jack Russell. This crossbreed (also called Border Jack) often produces mixed breed dogs weighing between 10 and 15 kg with a good dose of hunting instinct.
Border Collie-Beagle mix
Lively: The Border Beagle needs enough activity every day to relax and calm down in its basket in the evening, relaxed and satisfied. In contrast to his temperament, his appearance cannot be predicted beforehand. A border collie-beagle mix may have a short coat with the typical colors of a beagle. There are also mixed breed dogs that are equipped with a long fur dress.
Border Collie Bernese Mountain Mix
With this crossbreeding, the Bernese Mountain Dog can defuse the active nature of the Collie. Because the dog breed from Switzerland is known for its inner calm. However, this does not mean that the Bordernese – this is the English name for the mix – shies away from activities. The fluffy four-legged friend has to get rid of his excess energy every day, despite a stocky parent.
Border Collie Dachshund Mix
Exceptional: This mix is rare. As with all mixed breed dogs, a border collie and dachshund mix also have a great variety in terms of temperament and appearance. What is certain, however, is that the hybrid dog will either be short-legged and thus small or at most medium-sized. For those interested, one thing should be noted: the lovable dachshund may pass on its hunting instinct and stubbornness to its offspring.
Border Collie Sheltie Mix
A slim, agile body hides behind the fluffy fur of a border collie-Sheltie mixed breed. These two herding dogs give birth to offspring that not only make the hearts of long-haired dogs beat faster. They also have the potential to achieve geek status with the local agility club. Good to know: A Border Sheepdog entails increased effort in grooming.
