A Border Collie Terrier mix is an energetic and intelligent dog known for being a herder and a hunter. This mixed-breed dog is a top choice for people looking for an active pet.
However, the exact characteristics of a Border Collie Terrier mix vary depending on the traits inherited from its parent breed. Nonetheless, these dogs are interesting and definitely worth knowing about.
Are you interested in the Border Collie Terrier mix? If you are, then keep on reading. In this guide, you will learn everything about this playful and hardworking mixed-breed dog.
Breed Overview
| Height: | 17 – 23 inches |
| Weight: | 25 – 45 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 10 – 15 years |
| Coat Colors: | Black, blue, merle, red, brown, sable, and white |
| Temperament: | Intelligent, energetic, loyal |
| Suitable for: | Families with older children; active singles |
What Is a Border Collie Terrier Mix?
A Border Collie Terrier mix is a medium to large-sized designer breed produced by crossing a Border Collie and a terrier-type dog. A Collie Terrier mix is the perfect combination of the Border Collie’s intelligence and the terrier’s boldness. This mix is independent but also very loyal.
While this crossbreed can be a loving companion, the Border Collie Terrier is an energetic breed. However, having the feisty traits of terrier dogs, this pooch may not be suitable for families with small children.
Moreover, the Border Collie side of this mix can make your pooch herd and chase small animals at home. It is important to research both parent breeds and be prepared for the potential characteristics of this mix.
Border Collie Terrier Mix Origin and History
As a mixed breed, the Collie Terrier mix does not have a specific origin or history. However, you can learn a lot about them by delving into their parent breeds’ rich histories.
For starters, the Border Collie is a breed that originated on the border between England and Scotland, where this pooch was used for herding.
Meanwhile, the Terrier is a group of breeds that were developed in various regions of the world for the purpose of hunting small prey, such as rats and rabbits.
The Border Collie Terrier mix was created in an effort to produce smaller, more energetic, and possibly more adaptable dogs with a combination of the parent breeds’ traits and personalities.
Border Collie Terrier Mix Appearance
The appearance of a Border Collie Terrier mix can vary widely because this pooch may inherit any combination of physical traits from the parent breeds.
A Border Collie Terrier mix may inherit the Border Collie’s athletic build and medium to large size or the Terrier’s smaller and more compact body. This mix may also have a medium to long coat that is either rough or smooth.
This pooch may also be seen in a white and black colored coat. Some Collie Terrier mixes, however, have a red and white or a sable and white coat color. Some also have blue, brown, and merle colors.
You may also find other Collie Terriers with interesting coat colors, especially if the Collie parent is a tri-color Border Collie, red merle Border Collie, or blue merle Border Collie.
This hybrid can also sport other Border Collie colors and may also have blue eyes, similar to that of a blue-eyed Collie.
Border Collie Terrier Mix Size and Weight
A Border Collie Terrier mix could range in size from medium to large, with a weight that ranges from 25 to 45 pounds. Meanwhile, a Collie Terrier’s height usually ranges between 17 and 23 inches.
The size and weight of a Border Collie Terrier mix can vary significantly, as it will depend on the size of the parent breeds and the specific genetics of the individual dog.
A Border Collie Terrier mix is considered fully grown once it reaches one year of age. However, this pooch may continue gaining muscle mass until it reaches 15 to 24 months of age.
Border Collie Terrier Mix Temperament and Personality
It’s difficult to predict the exact temperament and personality of a Border Collie Terrier mix. As with other mixed-breed dogs, it will depend on many factors, such as your dog’s upbringing, genetics, and environment.
That said, a Border Collie Terrier mix may not be good for small children because of its natural herding instincts. Because of this, a Border Collie Terrier mix may be more suitable for older children.
This hybrid may also bark at guests visiting your home because of its inherent protective nature. Despite this, it is still possible to enforce proper manners on a Border Collie Terrier mix.
You can do this by using positive reinforcement techniques. Furthermore, you may also speak calmly around guests. This way, your dog will understand that your visitors are not a threat to your home.
All in all, the Border Collie Terrier mix is a dog that can display a wide range of temperaments and personalities. Fortunately, with the right attitude, you can easily raise a well-mannered Border Collie Terrier mix.
Border Collie Terrier Mix Lifespan and Health Issues
A Border Collie Terrier mix can live for 10 to 15 years. But just like the purebred Border Collie and the Terrier dogs, this dog’s lifespan depends mainly on its health status, environment, activities, and diet.
Mixed breeds like the Collie Terrier are known to have lower risks of hereditary diseases. Scientists call this hybrid vigor. A consequence of hybrid vigor is that mixed breeds tend to be healthier than purebreds.
However, the Border Collie Terrier mix may still develop some health issues, and some of them are as follows:
- Eye Problems: Both Border Collies and Terriers can be prone to eye problems, such as cataracts, glaucoma, and retinal atrophy. Some signs of eye problems include red, puffy, and sometimes cloudy eyes. You may also notice your Collie Terrier bumping into things or is scared to go up or down the stairs, which your pooch normally did.
- Allergies: Some Border Collie Terrier mixes may be prone to allergies, which can cause skin irritation and other symptoms. Flea bites, food, and environmental allergens may cause allergies in Collie Terrier mixes.
- Thyroid Problems: Both Border Collies and Terriers can be prone to thyroid problems, which can cause weight gain, hair loss, and other symptoms. Hypothyroidism is the most common thyroid problem among dogs. This happens when the thyroid gland is not capable of producing enough hormones.
As a fur parent, it is important that you are aware of the different signs and symptoms of these health issues. Taking your pooch to the vet on a regular basis can also help in preventing and early detection of these diseases.
How to Take Care of Your Terrier Border Collie Mix
Border Collie Terrier mixes are energetic, intelligent, and loyal dogs that need a lot of physical and mental stimulation. Read along to learn some tips for caring for a Border Collie Terrier mix.
Food and Diet
It’s important to feed your Border Collie Terrier a high-quality diet that meets the nutritional needs of your pooch. A meal packed with proteins, nutrients, and vitamins is needed for your dog’s holistic growth.
A Border Collie Terrier mix may be fed with one to two cups of dry food per day. This may be divided into two equally portioned meals.
Adding fiber to your Collie Terrier’s diet is also a great way to help your pooch pass stool easily. Keeping a bowl of fresh water always available is also important to keep your dog hydrated.
You may also treat your Border Collie Terrier mix with healthy snacks after being good in training. Aside from fresh vegetables and fruits, you may also buy healthy treats for your dog.
Cleaning and Grooming
If your Collie Terrier has a wiry and short coat, you may brush your dog’s coat every few weeks. However, if your pooch has a long and double coat, it may need weekly brushing to stay healthy.
Bathing must be done every 2 to 3 months unless your pooch is smelly or it accidentally rolled on dirt. Be sure not to bathe your dog too frequently, as it can cause skin dryness and itchy skin.
It is also important to clean your dog’s ears once a month and every after bathing to prevent ear infections. Aside from this, you should also trim your Border Collie Terrier’s nails to keep them nice and tidy.
Lastly, according to VCA Animal Hospital, it is important to brush your Border Collie Terrier’s teeth at least thrice a week. This is to prevent periodontal disease in your furry friend.
Training and Exercise
A Border Collie Terrier mix is an energetic breed that needs at least two hours of exercise daily. This means that this pooch would love outdoor activities like long walks, hiking, and catching frisbees.
Just like other highly energetic breeds, a Border Collie Terrier may develop destructive behaviors if insufficient exercise is given. Aside from quality playtime, training can also keep this pooch busy.
When it comes to training, early socialization, obedience training, and positive reinforcement are some of the best ways to handle a Border Collie Terrier mix.
If you are a new owner of this mix and have no idea how to train your pooch, hiring a professional dog trainer can do the trick.
How Much Does a Border Collie Terrier Mix Cost? Puppy Prices & Expenses
The price of a Border Collie Terrier mix may range between $450 and $1,200. However, you must be careful when buying puppies online, especially if the price is too good to be true.
Aside from puppy prices, there are other expenses you need to be prepared with. These include food, medical expenses, toys, and microchipping costs.
The table below will give you an overview of the different costs you will encounter when owning a Border Collie Terrier mix:
| Type of Expense | Cost |
| Food and Treats | $70 – $150 |
| Bowls | $10 – $40 |
| Toys | $30 – $100 |
| Beds | $40 – $300 |
| Collars and Leashes | $15 – $50 |
| Crates and Carriers | $50 – $500 |
| Grooming Essentials | $50 – $250 |
| Initial Vet Visits | $100 – $500 |
| Initial Vaccine Shots | $50 – $300 |
| Deworming, Flea, and Tick Medications | $40 – $300 |
| Neutering or Spaying | $50 – $500 |
| Microchipping | $40 – $60 |
| Dog License | $10 – $20 |
| Other Essentials | $20 – $80 |
| Total Initial Cost | $505 – $3,150 |
The prices mentioned in the table above may vary depending on your location and the actual size and health of your Border Collie Terrier mix. With that being said, it is important to always have emergency funds available.
If you are not a new dog owner, the total initial cost may be lower if you already have other pet supplies like food bowls, toys, and collars.
Places to Find Border Collie Terrier Mix Puppies for Sale and Adoption
Unlike the purebred Border Collie and Terrier breeds, it can be harder to find Border Collie Terrier mix puppies. This is because the Border Collie Terrier mix is still new in the canine industry.
However, you may check out the list below if you want to try your luck in bringing home a Border Collie Terrier mix:
- AKC Marketplace – This website advertises different breeds, and you can be sure that all puppies are from responsible breeders. The AKC Marketplace regularly monitors all their registered breeders and conducts health screenings to ensure the well-being of dogs. Some breeders may offer Border Collie Terrier mix puppies.
- Greenfield Puppies – This is another online platform that advertises Border Collie Terrier mixes, like the Border Collie Terrier mix and other breeds. All puppies sold on their website are covered with a 30-day health guarantee by the breeder.
- Keystone Puppies – Keystone Puppies is one of the popular websites you can run into when looking for a Border Collie Terrier mix. You may check their website from time to time for any available puppies.
Aside from buying a Collie Terrier puppy, you might also want to consider adopting one. Adopting a dog will not only save you money compared to buying from breeders, but this will also help a dog in need.
Below is a list of rescue groups you may visit if you want to adopt a Border Collie Terrier mix:
- Border Collie Save & Rescue – Border Collie Save & Rescue is a nonprofit organization that is dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and finding permanent homes for Border Collies and their mixes. For them, whether a purebred or a Collie Terrier mix, all dogs deserve a loving and forever home.
- Midwest Border Collie Rescue –This is another volunteer and nonprofit organization that rescues abandoned and abused Border Collies and Border Collie Terrier mixes. It is their commitment not to euthanize an adoptable dog. Instead, they keep their dogs in foster homes until they find a new family for them.
- East Tennessee Border Collie Rescue – Aside from adoption, East Tennessee Border Collie Rescue also accepts applications for those who would like to foster their Border Collie rescues and their mixes. Established in the mid-1990s, this nonprofit organization has saved thousands of Collie Terrier mixes in East Tennessee.
You may also check out local rescues and breeders near you by driving around your neighborhood. You might also want to leverage social media in your search.
For the meantime, watch this video to see a Border Collie Terrier mix looking for a forever home:
Pros and Cons of Owning a Border Collie Terrier Mix
Taking in a Border Collie Terrier mix puppy could be a loveable thing to do. But just like with any other breed, getting a dog should be well thought out in order to avoid dogs being surrendered or abandoned.
Below is a list of the different advantages of having a Border Collie Terrier at your home:
- Intelligent dog: This mixed breed is known to be smart. Given the right training and patience, your Collie Terrier can learn basic obedience and your rules at home.
- Good health: Mixed breeds like the Border Collie Terrier have lesser chances of inheriting diseases than purebreds. This is because hybrids have a more diverse genetic pool.
- Playful mixed breed: The Border Collie Terrier is an active and playful dog. If you are an active family or have older children at home, this pooch can definitely adapt to your lifestyle.
Meanwhile, here are the cons of having a Border Collie Terrier mix:
- Herding instinct: This hybrid is a herding breed and may sometimes nip on the heels of people or the paws of small animals. However, this behavior can be corrected through training your Border Collie Terrier mix.
- Highly energetic: Both parents are active breeds, so you may expect the same from the Collie Terrier. This pooch must be given enough exercise in order to release energy. Otherwise, this may lead to boredom, and your dog may develop destructive behaviors.
- Can be overly protective: The Border Collie Terrier mix can be aloof to strangers and may have the instinct to protect what they think is theirs. Early socialization can help prevent your pooch from becoming overly territorial.
With the list given, you may now evaluate your lifestyle and capacity to own a Border Collie Terrier mix. Keep in mind that when you adopt a dog, you are making a commitment to care for them for its entire life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Border Collie Terrier Mixes Good Dogs?
Yes, Border Collie Terrier mixes are loyal and affectionate dogs. This breed can be a great companion whether in an outdoor activity or simply cuddling up at home.
Do Border Collie Terrier Mixes Shed?
Yes, a Collie Terrier mix may shed moderately to heavily at least twice a year. This may also vary if your pooch inherited mostly from the Border Collie parent.
Meanwhile, if your dog inherited the Terrier parent’s wiry and coarse hair, chances are your pooch will still shed minimally. Regularly brushing your Collie Terrier’s hair can help prevent too much shedding.
Are Border Collie Terrier Mixes Hypoallergenic?
If you are a person with allergies, it is better to think twice before getting this mix. Although the Terrier parent can be considered hypoallergenic, the Border Collie parent is not.
If your hybrid puppy has the Border Collie’s long and double coat, you can expect your pooch to shed.
Do Border Collie Terrier Mixes Bark a Lot?
Yes, Border Collie Terrier mixes are considered barkers. This mix can be protective of their families and properties. So if a guest comes into your home, expect your pooch to be alert and territorial.
A Collie Terrier mix may also bark a lot when bored. Taking your pooch on walks or spending quality playtime together can help your dog release energy and stay calm.
Final Thoughts
A Border Collie Terrier is an active hybrid dog that must be given the right care and attention. This mixed-breed pooch is suitable for many families, especially those with an active lifestyle.
Take note, however, that a Border Collie Terrier mix can be overprotective at times. Moreover, these dogs have traits that are quite challenging to predict.
Fortunately, this mix is intelligent, so there should not be any problem when it comes to training. Given the right guidance, a Terrier Border Collie mix can grow up to be the most well-mannered dog you’ll meet.
So, are you bringing home this mixed-breed dog soon? Let us know your thoughts about the Border Collie Terrier mix in the comments below!
