Border Collie Australian Shepherd Mix – 2024 Guide

When you mix a Border Collie with an Australian Shepherd, you’ll end up with a Border Aussie! These dogs are like the cool kids of the canine world – smart, energetic, and always up for a good time.

Border Aussies aren’t just any old mix. They’re the offspring of two of the brainiest breeds out there. Think of them as the doggy equivalent of a chess champion running marathons. They’ve got the best bits of both parents: the Border Collie’s razor-sharp mind and the Aussie’s go-getter attitude.

How Big Do These Border Collie Pups Get?

Border Collies are like the Goldilocks of dogs – not too big, not too small. They usually stand anywhere from 18 to 23 inches tall. Weight-wise, you’re looking at a range of 30 to 65 pounds. It’s like they can’t make up their minds whether to be medium or large!

Their coat? It’s a thing of beauty. Usually medium length and thick enough to keep them cosy in chilly weather. And the colours? It’s like a mad artist has painted them. You might see black, white, red, blue, tan, or brown. Some even rock the ‘merle’ pattern, which looks like someone splattered paint all over them.

One of the coolest things about Border Collie is their eyes. They often have different-coloured eyes or eyes with multiple colours. It’s like they’re wearing natural contact lenses! Their ears can be floppy or pointy, sometimes even on the same dog. Talk about indecisiveness!

Brains and Brawn: The Border Aussie Personality

Border Aussies are scary smart. They’ll learn new tricks faster than you can say “sit”. And problem-solving? They’re like the Sherlock Holmes of the dog world. If there’s a treat hidden somewhere, they’ll find it.

But here’s the kicker – all that brainpower needs an outlet. These dogs have more energy than a toddler on a sugar rush. They need loads of exercise, both for their body and their mind. If you’re a couch potato, a Border Aussie might not be your best mate.

Kids and other pets? Usually no problem. But remember, these are herding dogs at heart. They might try to round up the kids or the cat. It’s all in good fun, but it’s something to keep an eye on.

Also Read: Blue Merle Australian Shepherds – Facts 2024

Taking Care of Your Border Collie

Right, let’s talk about keeping your Border Aussie happy and healthy. First up, exercise. These dogs need a solid hour or two of activity every day. And I’m not just talking about a stroll around the block. They need proper exercise – running, playing fetch, agility training, you name it.

Training is a must. But here’s the good news – Border Aussies are usually eager to please and quick to learn. Start early with obedience training and socialisation. Trust me, you’ll thank me later. Grooming-wise, they’re not too high maintenance. A good brush once or twice a week should do the trick. But fair warning – they shed. A lot. Especially during shedding season. You might want to invest in a good vacuum cleaner!

Don’t forget the other bits – keep those nails trimmed, teeth cleaned, and ears checked regularly. It’s all part of the package. When it comes to food, Border Aussies aren’t typically fussy eaters. A good quality dog food suited to their age and activity level is key. But don’t overdo it – with all that energy, they can pack on the pounds if you’re not careful.

Health Stuff: What to Watch Out For

Like all dogs, Border Aussies can have their share of health issues. Hip dysplasia is a big one – it’s when the hip joint doesn’t fit right in its socket. It can cause pain and lameness. They can also have eye problems, like progressive retinal atrophy. It’s a condition that can lead to blindness over time. Epilepsy is another one to watch out for – it causes seizures.

Some Border Aussies can be born deaf, especially those with a lot of white in their coat. And there’s this thing called multidrug-resistant mutation, which makes them super sensitive to certain medications. But don’t panic! Regular check-ups with the vet, staying on top of vaccinations, and keeping them parasite-free can help catch and manage these issues early.

Are They Good Family Dogs?

So, are Border Aussies good family pets? Well, that depends. If you’ve got a big backyard and an active lifestyle, they could be perfect. They thrive in homes where they’ve got space to run and people to play with.

But if you live in a tiny flat and work long hours, you might want to think twice. These dogs need lots of attention and exercise. Leave them alone for too long, and they might redecorate your house… with their teeth.

Their herding instincts can be a bit of a challenge too. They might try to herd small children or other pets. It’s usually not aggressive, but it can be annoying if you’re not prepared for it.

Thinking of Getting a Border Aussie?

If you’re set on getting a Border Aussie, do your homework. Look for reputable breeders who health test their dogs. Or better yet, check out rescue organisations. There are plenty of great dogs looking for homes.

Before you take the plunge, have a good think. Can you give a Border Aussie the time and attention they need? Are you ready for a dog that needs lots of exercise and mental stimulation? Can you afford the food, vet bills, and other costs that come with dog ownership?

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