Things to Know Before Getting a Border Doodle

0
15894
Photo from Pinterest

The Border Collie and Poodle mix or the Border Doodle is a combination of two well-loved breeds. At a glance, it can be difficult to identify a Border Doodle because it can be mistaken for a Poodle with unique coloring. But more than that, there are few more interesting facts about this crossbreed and you will learn more about them in today’s post.

History

The Border Doodle’s origin is unclear but it is believed that it was first bred in the United States just like many Doodle breeds. Its parents, the Poodle and the Border Collie originated in Germany and the U.K., respectively.

Appearance

Many Border Doodles or simply Bordoodles either have a curly or a corded coat like the Poodle but have the iconic color of Border Collie. The most common coat color of Collies is black with white markings, although they may also come in blue merle, chocolate and white, or liver and white.

CHECK LATEST PRICE OF DOG CAMERA

Amazon.com

Bordoodles have oval-shaped eyes that are set far apart. They have a medium built and could stand 13-21 inches and their expected adult weight is 20-30 lbs. They can easily adapt to apartment living as long as they get the needed exercise every day.

Personality

Both breeds are ideal as family pets. They are generally friendly, especially around children. Poodles and Border Collies are both known for their affectionate and playful nature and there is a great chance they will pass it on to their offspring.

While they are both family-friendly, there is no guarantee that their offspring will be welcoming towards strangers and other pets. Border Collies are not that amiable to new people and other animals. But if raised well and socialized early, this dog will enjoy anyone’s company.

These dogs will likely produce smart pups because these breeds are among the most intelligent breeds you can find. They are easy to train and they learn things quickly. This breed will enjoy plenty of activities and attention.

Grooming

Border Doodles may be a bit challenging to groom since they inherit the coat of their Poodle parent. They require moderate to high maintenance. However, with the right tools and regular grooming, you should not have a hard time maintaining your pet’s coat.

For dogs with curly hair like Bordoodles, it is recommended to brush at least twice a week using a slicker brush. You may use any type of comb for dogs but a slicker brush is the best choice for Bordoodles because it makes it easier to brush out tangles and even mats.

Like Poodles, Border Doodles should only be given a bath every two or three weeks but this depends on your pet’s lifestyle. If he is always indoors, it will be enough to give him a full bath only once a month, using a gentle dog shampoo. Dogs should not be bathed more than twice a month because bathing too often will dry out their skin.

Washing your Border Doodle should be followed by a quick blow-drying. Otherwise, the coat will likely have mats and tangles. While blow-drying your pet’s coat, you may use a slicker brush to dry it faster.

Feeding

Bordoodle puppies usually eat more than the adult ones. Puppies can start eating solids by six weeks or as early as four weeks if it is not getting enough calories from the mother’s milk. It’s recommended to feed your Bordoodle high-quality puppy formula. If you have no idea which brands to choose, you may ask your vet for recommendations.

You may start offering human food, like quality meat, vegetables, and fruits starting at adulthood. Introduce them to your buddy gradually to avoid unpleasant symptoms like diarrhea and vomiting. Just avoid giving onion, garlic, sugary treats, salty foods, macadamia nuts, grapes, raisins, and chocolates as these are considered toxic to dogs.

As a combination of two active breeds, the Border doodle should be given foods rich in protein. Many Poodles and Border Collies also do well with grain-free dog food since they are prone to having a sensitive stomach and allergy to many food items. The number of calories per day will depend on a number of factors, including your pet’s activity levels, weight, and health.

Exercise Needs

This mix requires a minimum of 20-30 minutes of exercise per day. It will enjoy running or a long walk. You may play throw and fetch with your Bordoodle, especially when it is too hot or too cold to go outdoors.

Bordoodles are well-suited in houses with yards because they enjoy running and playing a lot. Your fur baby will also enjoy any activity that stimulates his mind since this one is a highly intelligent crossbreed. Consider dog puzzles and durable chew toys.

Health

The Border Collie and Poodle mix has a long life span. On average, it can live 13 to 14 years like its parents. This mix is fairly healthy but can still acquire a hereditary condition like the following:

Allergies – it may be prone to a range of allergies, like the Collie and the Poodle. The most common type of allergy in dogs is skin allergy brought by the environment, food, or flea. It can also be acute allergic reactions to vaccine and bee sting. There are many types of allergies but they usually have the same signs which are itchiness, skin inflammation, vomiting, face swelling, and sneezing.

Epilepsy – this fur baby may inherit idiopathic epilepsy. This genetic condition, more commonly known as seizures, has an unidentified cause. It is not curable but it can be managed using antiepileptic drugs like Phenobarbital and potassium bromide. These medications should not be given without a prescription.

Hip Dysplasia – many dogs are susceptible to hip dysplasia which is a skeletal disease that causes pain and discomfort, especially in later stages. It can be prevented by not letting your Border Doodle become overweight. Joint health supplements are also effective in preventing hip dysplasia.

Progressive retinal atrophy – a set of genetic diseases comparable to retinitis pigmentosa in people, it can affect the dog’s vision and can even cause blindness if not treated. The dog should be screened for PRA to see if it is carrying the PRA gene from both the parents. A dog will likely inherit PRA if both the parents are carrying the autosomal recessive gene.

Border Doodle Price

Doodle dogs are a bit expensive. A pup usually costs $2,500 – $3,000 each, depending on the size, color, and gender. When buying a Bordoodle, check if it already has its first vaccines and if it was de-wormed. Make sure the parents were DNA tested for genetic disorders that may affect canines.

Conclusion

Border Doodles look a lot like Poodles, due to their curly coat but they can be as energetic as Border Collies. They are affectionate, smart, and playful. They also enjoy being around people and they can be great family pets because of their friendliness.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here