Your question: “What is a bordoodle?” To put it briefly, yes; you’re smart. This relatively new hybrid combines two of the most intelligent dog breeds into one adorable, low-maintenance package: the border collie and the poodle.
Due to the novelty of the breed, prospective bordoodle owners should be aware that their puppy’s physical characteristics, personality, and even health and coat texture may differ depending on the genetic contributions of both of her parents.
Some breeders may try to create a mini-sized version of the hybrid by using miniature poodles in the breeding process; if so, the resulting dog will likely be much smaller than the average standard-sized poodle but still quite intelligent, active, and affectionate. They’ll probably have a lot of energy, though the poodle in them may temper some of the border collie’s infamous ferocity.
In spite of this, people who want to bring a bordoodle into their homes should be ready to commit to a routine of daily exercise, some degree of grooming, and a lot of love.
How’s your sense of self-importance? The bordoodle is a good choice if you’re comfortable with the possibility that your dog is more intelligent than you are. Border collies and poodles, both known for their intelligence, are considered to be easily trainable with the right owners.
You may also want to read about the Irish Doodle.
History
The bordoodle, a cross between a border collie and a poodle, is a newer hybrid dog whose ancestry is murky at best. Border collies and poodles have probably been accidentally breeding for a long time, as is the case with most designer mixes; however, it is only in recent years that breeders have made efforts to standardize the bordoodle.
True enough! The American Canine Hybrid Club, the Designer Breed Registry, the Designer Dogs Kennel Club, the Dog Registry of America, and the International Designer Canine Registry all recognize the bordoodle (under the name “borpoodle”) as a valid hybrid dog breed.
However, due to the prevalence of puppy mills in the designer dog market, it is important to do extensive research before committing to any bordoodle breeder or any other designer dog hybrid. Brown-Bury admits that it’s possible that this dog is not a purebred “The standard advice is applicable. If at all possible, you should visit the place where the puppies’ parents are kept and spend the first weeks of their lives. Knowing the temperament, health, and size of the parents can give you a good idea of what to expect from a puppy, especially if you don’t have a specific purebred standard to go by.”
Unfortunately, unscrupulous breeders are quick to capitalize on the growing demand for hybrid dogs by breeding purebreds and other exotic breeds without the same commitment to the dogs’ health and well-being as ethical breeders.
Temperament
Erin Askeland, CPDT-KA, CBCC-KA, animal health and behavior consultant at Camp Bow Wow, says, “They are very friendly and love people and companionship, but they may not listen on their own all the time.” For the best possible results in having a well-adjusted family pet, it’s best to begin training and socializing your dog as soon as possible and maintain these practices consistently throughout their lives.
They make great pets for active families of all kinds because they don’t play favorites and are content to spend time with whoever is around. But the border collie in her can make her wary of new people, so it’ll be up to you to show your puppy that it’s okay to open up.
Although both border collies and poodles can have a lot of energy, their owners should know that the two breeds have very different work ethics.
“Border collies are eager to work and expect to be employed full-time. When compared to other dog breeds, poodles are typically more energetic and enthusiastic. Their work ethic is admirable, but they also value downtime and enjoyment “, Askeland claims. “This means that bordoodles can exhibit a wide range of characteristics. Some may have a strong work ethic, while others may be content with less stimulation and/or a less demanding job.”
In order to prevent your bordoodle from becoming bored, which can lead to undesirable behaviors, you should pay attention to what makes her happy and healthy. She isn’t intentionally misbehaving; she just doesn’t know how to release her excess energy.
Care
The coat of a bordoodle can be either curly like a poodle’s or fluffy like a border collie’s, so grooming requirements will vary from dog to dog. It’s a safe bet, though, that she’ll need her coat brushed multiple times a week. If she has a coat similar to that of a border collie, she may only need to be brushed and given the occasional bath; the downside is that she will shed more.
Shedding may be minimal if her coat takes after her poodle ancestors, but she may need frequent, expert grooming to prevent her fur from matting. Check on her nails frequently, and if you hear them tapping on the floor, she needs to get them trimmed. Keep an eye on those adorable floppy ears, as they may need some assistance with hygiene.
Keeping your body and mind active on a consistent basis is essential, but neither is required to be strenuous. The bordoodle likely won’t inherit the border collie’s incessant need to work, so a couple of pleasant walks daily should be sufficient, especially if you supplement them with some stimulating brain games, like training her to do tricks using positive reinforcement. However, if you prefer an active lifestyle, she might make a great running or biking companion, so don’t be shy about inviting her along.
Training and early socialization can help your bordoodle maintain his or her outgoing, inquisitive personality rather than developing a standoffish demeanor. Make sure to give them a great food to.
