Border Collie Schnauzer Mix: Everything You Need to Know

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Posted Oct 2, 2024

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A Border Collie during Winter
Credit: pexels.com, A Border Collie during Winter

The Border Collie Schnauzer mix is a unique and fascinating breed that combines the intelligence and energy of a Border Collie with the loyalty and protective nature of a Schnauzer.

This mix is often referred to as a Schnauzerdor or Border Schnauzer.

They generally weigh between 30-50 pounds and stand between 18-22 inches tall at the shoulder.

Their coats can vary, but often feature a distinctive beard and mustache characteristic of Schnauzers.

They are highly intelligent and trainable, but can be strong-willed and require consistent, positive reinforcement training.

Their energy level is moderate to high, making them a great fit for active families or individuals who enjoy outdoor activities.

Breed Information

The Border Schnollie is a relatively new mix, and its history is still being written. However, both parent breeds have illustrious histories.

The Border Collie is a highly intelligent breed with a rich history dating back to the 19th century. They were originally bred to herd sheep in the Anglo-Scottish border region.

The Miniature Schnauzer, on the other hand, has a long history that dates back to the 15th century. They were originally bred as ratters and guard dogs.

Breed History

Credit: youtube.com, Where Every Dog Breed Came From

The Border Schnollie is a relatively new breed, so its origin is still somewhat of a mystery. The Border Collie, however, has a rich history that dates back to the border country of Scotland and England.

The Border Collie was first bred to be a working farm dog, and they're still highly prized for their intelligence, work ethic, and friendly personality. They're known for their intense eyes that can compel almost anyone to move.

The Schnauzer, on the other hand, has a long history that dates back to around 1492. It was originally known as the Wirehaired Pinscher and was used on farms to guard the household and kill rats, mice, and other vermin.

The Schnauzer was later recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1904, just a few years after being brought to the United States in 1900. This breed has been around for a while, and it's interesting to note that the Standard Schnauzer is believed to be the oldest of all three types.

The Border Schnollie is a combination of these two breeds, and it's no surprise that it's an upbeat, intelligent, and loyal dog. However, it does require a strong leader to be trained properly, making it less suitable for first-time dog owners.

Breed Appearance

Credit: youtube.com, Bordoodle Dog Breed Information - The Ultimate Family Dog | Bordoodle Dogs 101

The Border Schnollie is a medium-sized dog with a wiry fur coat, floppy ears, and intelligent eyes that are always alert and full of life. Their eyes are typically light or dark brown.

Their color patterns can range from grey, black, brown, and tan with white markings. They take after the Schnauzer in terms of their wiry fur, which has an under layer.

The Border Schnollie's athletic build is likely due to their Border Collie heritage. Their wiry fur may shed to some extent, but it's not as bad as some breeds.

The Borador, on the other hand, can have a short coat in black, brown, or yellow if they take after their Labrador side. Or, they can have a medium-length coat that's solid black or black and white if they lean more towards their Border Collie parent.

Boradors are medium-to-large dogs that can stand 18–25 inches tall and weigh anywhere between 30–70 pounds. They tend to be on the smaller end of the range, but it depends on their parent breeds.

Take a look at this: Border Collies with Blue Eyes

Health and Care

Credit: youtube.com, Schnauzer and Border Collie

As a responsible dog owner, it's essential to consider the health aspects of your Border Collie Schnauzer mix. Hybrid dogs are a relatively new phenomenon, and there is little data about the health problems to which they are prone.

Their genetic makeup, inherited from both parents, means they may be susceptible to health issues that affect their parents.

Both Border Collies and Schnauzers are generally healthy breeds, but they can be prone to certain health problems.

Health and Conditions

The Border Schnollie is a hardy dog with a life expectancy of up to 16 years. They are generally a healthy breed.

As a responsible dog owner, it's essential to be aware of the potential health conditions that may affect your Border Schnollie. Cataracts are a common issue in this breed, so keep an eye out for cloudy or opaque eyes.

Diabetes mellitus is another condition to watch out for, and it's crucial to monitor your dog's food intake and exercise levels to prevent it. Pancreatitis is also a concern, and you should seek veterinary assistance if you notice any signs of vomiting or abdominal pain.

White Black and Brown Border Collie Mix
Credit: pexels.com, White Black and Brown Border Collie Mix

Hip dysplasia is a genetic condition that can cause arthritis and mobility issues, so it's essential to keep your dog's weight under control. Collie eye anomaly is another condition that may affect your Border Schnollie, and it's characterized by a range of eye problems.

Here are some potential health issues to look out for in your Border Schnollie:

  • Cataracts
  • Diabetes mellitus
  • Pancreatitis
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Collie eye anomaly

Food Requirements

You'll want to feed your dog between one and one and a half cups of good quality dry food every day, preferably split over two meals.

High-energy breeds like yours require foods with higher protein than other formulas. This will help maintain muscle mass and support their active lifestyle.

Protein is essential for all dogs, especially puppies, as it aids in the growth of muscle.

Temperament and Training

The Border Collie Schnauzer mix is a highly intelligent and energetic breed that requires plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to prevent naughty behaviors like chewing the sofa. They need jobs to do, whether it's herding, agility, or simply playing fetch.

Credit: youtube.com, 10 Things Border Collies Hate That You Should Avoid

These dogs are naturally protective of their family and may bark at strangers or suspicious activity until they're more comfortable. Early socialization is key to curb their protective nature into something healthy.

As a herder, the Border Schnollie may try to round up small children, adults, and other animals, so it's essential to teach them that this behavior is not acceptable. They'll form a close bond with their family members and are generally good with kids.

With proper training, the Border Schnollie can become a loyal and loving companion dog. They respond well to reward-based training methods, such as praise or chasing a ball, rather than food.

To prevent separation anxiety, it's crucial to provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation, and to ensure that someone can visit the dog throughout the day if you work all day. The Border Schnollie will deeply love their family and form unique bonds with every member of the family unit.

The Border Schnollie's intelligence and trainability make them a great breed for experienced dog owners who can provide the necessary structure and exercise. With patience and consistency, you can help your Border Schnollie become a well-behaved and loving member of your family.

For another approach, see: Potty Training Mini Schnauzer

Exercise and Activity

Credit: youtube.com, Border Collie vs Border Terrier: Exercise and Activity Levels

A Border Collie Schnauzer mix needs a lot of physical and mental stimulation throughout the day. They thrive on activities like training, jogging, hiking, and playing fetch in the yard.

These dogs have thick fur, so they can do just fine in cold weather, and you won't have to worry about not getting them enough exercise outside in the winter months. They love accompanying you on hikes and jogs, and even when you think you've worn them out, they will probably be able to keep going and going.

High-energy dogs like the Border Schnollie need a way to release their energy in a productive way to prevent destructive behavior. You'll need to spend 1 to 2 hours a day giving your dog good mental and physical stimulation.

They enjoy time in the water, so be prepared for a muddy dog if you let them off the lead around lakes or puddles. Swimming can tire dogs out much quicker than walking or running.

See what others are reading: Do Border Collies Need to Be Groomed

Credit: youtube.com, Dogs: husky vs border collie agility

To provide mental stimulation, find a method of training or activity that will enable your dog to flex their brain as well as their legs. They perform well at agility and other physical classes.

A Border Schnollie owner must commit to two good walks a day, preferably with off-lead time, to keep them happy and healthy. Enrolling them in an agility class will tick a lot of boxes.

Exercise is not optional for these dogs - if their need isn't met, boredom will breed bad habits like barking, chewing, or digging. They may divert their energy into unwelcome pursuits.

Grooming and Maintenance

The Border Schnollie is a relatively low-maintenance breed when it comes to grooming. Brushing out their coat at least two times a week with a metal comb and brush should be enough to keep shedding to a minimum.

Bathing only needs to happen every once in a while, or when your dog gets really dirty. Make sure to dry their ears thoroughly after bathing, as their folded ears can be prone to infection.

Credit: youtube.com, Grooming Schnauzer Mix

Trimming their nails every few weeks or when you hear them clicking on the floor is also essential. Daily tooth brushing is just as important, helping to remove plaque before it hardens to tartar and protect their teeth from gum recession and infection.

By following these simple grooming and maintenance tips, you can keep your Border Schnollie looking and feeling their best.

Living with a Border Collie Schnauzer Mix

Living with a Border Collie Schnauzer Mix can be a thrilling adventure, but it's essential to understand their high energy needs. They require plenty of opportunities to burn off their boundless energy, from long walks and trips to the dog park to epic games of fetch.

A tired dog is a good dog, and boradors are no exception. They'll happily nap on the sofa after a good workout, but don't expect them to be content with short, solo sniffing sessions around the fence line.

Credit: youtube.com, Dog Play Schnauzer and Collie

If you live in an apartment, you might want to rethink getting a borador, as they are probably not the right dogs for apartment life. Their herding instincts from their border collie heritage can remain strong, but with early and consistent training, they can learn to get along with kids and other pets.

Living Needs

Living with a Border Collie Schnauzer Mix requires a lot of space and exercise. They need a big yard to run around in and plenty of opportunities to burn off their boundless energy.

Long walks, trips to the dog park, and games of fetch are a must. A tired dog is a good dog, and boradors are no exception.

They'll want to be right by your side, whether you're hiking, running, or swimming. They're naturals at dog sports like agility, rally, obedience, and dock diving.

You can't walk this dog enough to get rid of their energy, so be prepared for a workout. Apartment life is probably not the right fit for a borador.

With early and consistent training, a borador can learn to get along with kids and other pets.

Dachshund Mix Facts

Credit: youtube.com, 10 Of The Most Adorable Dachshund Mix Dog Breeds

Living with a Border Collie Schnauzer Mix is a unique experience, and understanding the breed's characteristics can make a big difference in your life.

Dachshund mixes, like the Border Collie Schnauzer Mix, are often energetic and playful, requiring regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. They can be prone to obesity if they don't get enough physical activity.

This breed typically weighs between 25-45 pounds and stands between 15-20 inches tall, making them a great fit for families with smaller living spaces.

Puppies and Breeding

Border Schnollie puppies are loving and loyal, making them a great addition to an active family.

They have high energy levels, so regular exercise and playtime are a must.

As a breed that's very alert and protective, they can make great watchdogs.

However, they're not fans of being left alone for long periods, so proper training and socialization are crucial.

You'll need to ensure they're comfortable with their surroundings and have plenty of toys to keep them busy when you're away.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do schnollies shed?

Schnollies shed moderately, requiring a weekly brush to prevent matting, and occasional baths when dirty. Regular grooming helps keep them clean and healthy.

What is a schnollie?

A Schnollie is a crossbreed between a Border Collie and a Schnauzer, making it a unique and mixed-breed dog. To understand its temperament, learn about the characteristics of both parent breeds.

Are snorkies good dogs?

Yes, Snorkies are great family pets, known for their affectionate and playful nature. They make excellent companions for families with children due to their strong bond-forming abilities and high trainability.

Bryant Blick

Senior Writer

Bryant Blick is a talented writer with a passion for storytelling. With a keen eye for detail, he brings readers into the heart of the stories he tells. His writing career has taken off with a focus on exploring the rich tapestry of food culture.

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