Introduction – The Borderdoodle

The Bordoodle, also called the Borderpoo, Borderdoodle, or Borpoo is a hyper-intelligent, energetic, and sensitive designer dog. Playful and friendly, the Border Collie and Poodle mix is an excellent choice for active owners.

You may be interested in the gorgeous teddy-bear looks of a golden Bordoodle or have your heart melted by a mini Borderpoo. Whether they are a first-generation Border Collie Poodle mix for sale or a multigenerational border doodle, these are irresistible dogs.

But before you start searching for Bordoodle puppies for sale near you, it’s vital to determine if this Doodle is a good fit for you. So let’s look at Bordoodle size, genetics, exercise requirements, and other considerations.

What is the Bordoodle?

The Borderpoo is a cross between the Poodle and the Border Collie. The Bordoodle is not as common as other Doodles, such as the Labradoodle. However, some specialist breeders have spent time developing the Borderpoo into far more than a simple crossbreed. Multiple generations bred by responsible breeders have helped create a more standardised dog, although they are not yet formally recognised as purebred. 

However, since Bordoodles are a relatively new crossbreed, it is better to look at the history of their parent breeds to gain insight into this mix.

Poodle Background

The Poodle has long been linked to Europe’s Aristocracy. Initially, these hunting dogs excelled in fetching waterfowl from the water. This makes them excellent swimmers with some amount of prey drive. Poodles are likely related to other water dogs, including the Irish and English water spaniels that share their signature curly coats.

As they are such exceptionally smart dogs, some were bred into smaller varieties to be kept as pets. They were also the circus dogs of choice for some time. Today, the Poodle is one of the cleverest dog breeds and is known for being a perfectionist in training, much like the Border Collie. 

Border Collie Background

The Border Collie is a popular herding and working breed from Scotland’s border area. The word “collie” likely comes from an old Celtic word meaning “useful.”

Today, Border Collies still retain their strong herding instinct and insatiable need to work. They can all trace their lineage to one working Collie called “old Hemp.”

What does the Bordoodle look like?

Multigenerational Bordoodles usually have single curly coats, similar to their Poodle ancestors. They are typically low shedders and reasonably hypoallergenic. However, some Borderpoos, especially first-generation F1 puppies, may inherit a coat closer to the Border Collie. In this case, they may have a double coat and be prone to shedding. Occasionally, they have long wiry guard hairs.

In terms of colour, they may be:

• Black
• Black and white
• Apricot 
• Golden
• White 
• Grey 
• Red
• Chocolate 
• Cream 
• Brindle 
• Sable 
• Merle
• Blue
• Phantom
• Tri-colour

Colours may be solid, have white markings, or be bi or parti-colour. 

Black or black and white Bordoodle are the most common, with apricot, chocolate, or golden Bordoodles being some of the most popular. They typically have round, dark eyes and a dark nose but eyes can also be blue or green.

How big does the Bordoodle get?

The Bordoodle comes in three distinct sizes. Depending on the breeder, you can get:

The Standard Bordoodle

Height: 22″-25″ or 55 – 34 cm 

Weight: 50lbs – 65lbs or 22 – 30 kg

The Medium Bordoodle

Height: 18″ – 21″ or 45 – 53 cm

Weight: 30lbs – 45lbs or 13 – 20 kg

The Miniature or Mini Bordoodle

Height: 15″ – 17″ or 38 – 43 cm

Weight: 20lbs – 30lbs or 9 – 13 kg

General Care of the Bordoodle

How much exercise does a Bordoodle need?

The Bordoodle has high exercise requirements.

They are not a good fit for busy or sedentary owners who don’t have plenty of time for walks. Ideally, they need roughly 60 to 90 minutes of daily exercise. This should include regular vigorous activity, such as playing fetch.

Raising a Bordoodle puppy

Pet parents of a Bordoodle should know that it can take a long time for their puppies to mature and “calm down.” They are often hyperactive and can be destructive if they are not given an outlet for their active minds and high energy levels. 

Some issues that can arise include herding behaviour, such as nipping heels or trying to herd children (or the cat!). They can also be given to destructive chewing, chasing smaller animals, or excessive barking. In some cases, they may develop separation anxiety.

The answer to most of these problems is early socialisation, life-long training, and plenty of exercise. Redirecting your Bordoodle youngster to fun activities such as playing fetch or tug is a positive way to reduce unwanted behaviours. 

Generally, your Bordoodle will settle down around 18 months. However, most Bordoodles will always be active dogs, and it’s worth investing in a sport such as agility to channel their energy.

Bordoodle Grooming

A Bordoodle needs regular grooming with a slicker or pin brush to keep their coat from matting. Owners should be able to run a comb through the coat if it is not matted. Dogs with thicker wiry coats may be prone to shedding and need seasonal “blow-outs” to dislodge dead hair.

In addition, Bordoodles need to have their ears cleaned and their nails clipped regularly. Ethical breeders will encourage their puppies to chew on raw meaty bones; this forms the foundation of a healthy dental hygiene routine that you can continue when you bring your puppy home. If you don’t feed bones or long lasting chews, brush their teeth regularly since bad dental health in dogs can cause anything from diabetes to heart and lung problems.

Bordoodle Space Requirements

The Bordoodle loves being inside with the family, but the standard size Borderpoo is not suited to apartments and needs a yard to romp in. Being smaller, the miniature bordoodles can live comfortably in apartments but need twice daily exercise to meet their needs. 

Bordoodle Health Concerns:

Some Bordoodle potential health problems to watch out for include:

• Degenerative Joint Disorders such as hip and elbow dysplasia.
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) and other eye issues
• Epilepsy and seizures
• Addison’s Disease
• Digestive disorders
• Hypothyroidism

What is the Bordoodle’s life expectancy?

The Bordoodle is usually a reasonably healthy dog that will live for between 10 and 15 years.

Bordoodle Temperament

 The Bordoodle is an intelligent dog and tends to be exceptionally sweet-natured. They also do well at any kind of training, as they are easily motivated. They are also sensitive and may be prone to shyness around strangers. This is not a dog for harsh treatment or training methods, so positive reinforcement dog training and consistency are best. 

They are generally alert and good with children. The Bordoodle is well suited to family life, provided the family is active and has plenty of time for daily walks and playtime activities. 

Does the Bordoodle get along with other animals?

Socialisation is vital for the Bordoodle, as they may chase or “herd” other animals, especially smaller ones. Their high-energy levels can irritate an older dog, but generally, they do get on well with other pets. Keep in mind, like any breed, early socialisation is vital.

Are Bordoodles good dogs for families?

Bordoodles are perfect family dogs since they usually get on well with children. However, it’s important to supervise dogs and children together as a rule of thumb, particularly the smaller types. Bordoodles are not guarding dogs, but they can be protective of their families at times.

This is a highly attached dog. So it’s best not to have a Bordoodle in a household where they are left alone for extended periods.

How much does a Border Collie Poodle Mix cost?

Depending on how good the breeder is, a Bordoodle puppy can cost anything from $1000 to $5000. It is worth paying a higher price from an established and reputable breeder who conducts proper health screens. Furthermore, proactive breeders are now DNA testing for coat traits; providing an insight into the level of shedding, texture (wire/fleece/wool) and teddy bear vs smooth coat traits of their puppies for sale.  If you are lucky, you can also search rescues online and find one to adopt.

Conclusion

The Borderpoo is a fantastic family dog but has high exercise and moderate-to-high grooming requirements. So if you have a home that can channel their energy, and you have time to spend on grooming, this is a good option as a devoted and uber-smart family dog.