Mixes

Border Collie Boxer Mix (Boxollie) Complete Breed Guide

The Boxollie is a hybrid, not a purebred canine. It is a mix of a Boxer and a Collie. To figure out the nature of this blend, it is important to investigate the attributes of both parent breeds since they can contribute any mixture of their characteristics. These designer hybrid breeds are not necessarily always composed of 50% of each parent. Breeders frequently rear multi-generational crosses.

hybrid Border Collie and Boxer mix

Basic Characteristics of Border Collie Boxer Mix

While Border Collie Boxer is a mix of two breeds, it has characteristics acquired from its parents, making them unique.

Height Around 18 to 24 inches
Weight Around 40 to 70 pounds
Colors White, black and brown
Temperament Smart, energetic, cheerful, playful, loyal, affectionate, active, obedient
Lifespan 12 to 15 years
Best for Active individuals, families

History of Boxer Border Collie Mix

how Boxollie was made

There is not a lot of evidence that accurately explains where the Boxollie breed originates from. It is speculated that this crossbreed was designed to eliminate the likelihood of health issues that were commonly present in its parent breeds.

We have to take a look at the history of each parent to have better understanding of Boxollie’s history.

Border Collie: Brief History

Border Collies are acknowledged to be among the most capable and diligent breeds. Their intelligence, and enthusiasm to fulfill your wishes will make you love them even more. This specific type of dog originated in Scotland. Eventually, it became popular along the English-Scottish border. It was commonly referred to as a “Collie” and was used to herd sheep. These canines were often employed to guard and herd flocks of sheep. Their capability in this job was outstanding as they were robust, intelligent and had a strong sense of dedication.

Boxer: Brief History

The lineage of the Boxer can be traced all the way back to 2,500 B.C when their predecessors, the Assyrian war dogs, existed. But the modern-day Boxer was developed in Germany during the latter part of the 19th century.

It is assumed that German canine aficionados selected and developed the breed from a larger, bulkier type called the Bullenbeisser (a German word meaning “bull biter”).

Through the years, Boxers have shown amazing capabilities when it comes to a variety of tasks, such as being used as a herding dog, a guard dog, an alarm dog, and even as a guide dog. Since then, the AKC or American Kennel Club acknowledged its presence in 1904.

Appearance of Boxer & Border Collie Mix

Hybrids of different breeds often display different features, even those that came from the same litter. The Boxollie takes after the Boxer in terms of its overall look. Generally, it has a dense coat that can be either short or medium-length, and it is water-resistant. The Boxollie’s coat may come in black, white, or brown.

Its size will depend on which dominant genes it has obtained and can range from medium to large. This breed of dog is exceptionally athletic and intelligent and has an air of cleverness in its bearing. It has a muscular figure that is symmetrically proportionate, and its tail is usually left natural.

Size, Height & Weight

The Border Collie is a breed of canine with a medium structure and athletic build. It has an estimated height of 18 to 22 inches, and a weight of 30 to 45 pounds. This type of canine is of medium size and generally has a solid build. The Boxer on the other hand is a medium-sized breed with a muscular build, measuring between 21 to 25 inches tall, and weighing between 55 and 75 pounds.

Based from this information, a Boxollie will typically have a size of medium to big build. This can be accompanied, with a height of around 18 to 25 inches and a weight between 45 and 80 pounds.

Coats & Colors of Border Collie & Boxer Mix

Upon close inspection of the Boxer Border Collie, it is possible to observe that it typically comes in a range of attractive hues. These may include white, black, black and white, and even gold.

Personality & Temperament of Boxer And Border Collie Mix

The Boxollie is an entertaining and loving breed of canine, which is full of energy. If they are properly trained, they can live peacefully with other pets and children in the same household. They are incredibly intelligent. This makes training relatively easily.

Intelligence

Likewise its Border Collie parent, the Boxollie is an intelligent breed too. They easily understand new commands and even memorize it after 15 to 25 repetitions. This makes a Boxollie as one of the smartest dogs you could have.

Energy of Border Collie And Boxer Mix

Boxollie canines are a great fit for households that have older kids because of their tendencies to herd and their high energy. The ideal place for them to live is a home with a fenced-in yard in a warmer climate, yet they can still thrive in an urban setting so long as they’re given proper training.

Family & Kids

Boxer Collie waiting for its owners

The Boxollie is an excellent choice for a family pet, as long as their physical activity requirements and obedience training are met. These canines have a friendly and gentle nature and rarely display signs of aggressiveness. They are great with children, although they can be a bit too energetic for younger ones and may accidentally knock them over. Thus, constant supervision is still a must from parents.

Other Animals

The Border Collie Boxer Mix is usually not an aggressive breed and typically gets along well with cats and other animals. Because Boxollies are not originally intended for hunting and generally does not possess a strong drive to chase prey.

properly socialized Border Collie

The heritage of a Border Collie may cause them to display some hunting traits, meaning Boxollies that are not socialized might view smaller pets as animals to herd. This can be avoided by teaching and familiarizing them with socializing from the very start.

Strangers

burglar trying to break in

These animals take great pleasure in being around their owners and are incredibly steadfast companions. They also have strong sense of protection for their family and abode when it comes to outsiders.

Do They Bark A Lot?

It is not common for Boxers to bark a lot; if they do, then it is likely due to a legitimate reason. Even though some are not very vocal, they usually have a type of low grumbling sound that is just their way of communicating.

Border Collies are a breed that have a tendency to make a lot of noise with their barking. They can be quickly roused by visual stimuli, which is why they bark a lot when they see something that moves rapidly, such as bicycles or skateboards.

This particular trait of their parents can be transferred to a Boxollie. But it is something that shouldn’t be seen negatively. Dogs barking can be their way of communication.

Are They Good For Newbie Dog Owners?

These particular dogs have a tendency to be extremely devoted to their families and children, making them ideal companions. In addition, they usually get along with other animals well. They can be independent from time to time when the house is loud or there are a lot of people around.

Socializing them from a young age can help prevent any unwanted behaviors from forming. They react positively to encouragement and reward, just like all canines. They are usually quite loving and enjoy spending quality time with their owners. It’s not recommended to leave them alone for long periods, as they are not suited to being by themselves. Ultimately, they desire to be part of the “pack”.

It is not about you’re a newbie dog owner. It’s all about whether you can provide the needs of your dog or not. Any dog owner, whether new or not, if they can’t meet the requirements of their dog, it would just not be good enough for them.

Training & Exercise of a Boxollie

using play as training and exercise for your dog

Are you prepared to begin teaching your pup or canine? Proper coaching and socialization are some of your pet’s foundation. It is essential to initiate training of your dog immediately to obey commands such as sit, stay, come, go to their kennel, and to eliminate outdoors. Surprisingly, it is something that you can do yourself even if you are a novice.

Initiate a dog obedience routine – find out how you can establish basic foundation before beginning the training.

Use games for training – training must be fun for the two of you. It’s simpler and faster to learn when you’re having a wonderful time. Thus, make an effort to integrate games into your training.

Learn the value of positive reinforcement – there are countless methods of dog training. But experienced dog trainers would agree that positive reinforcement is the best approach.

Taking Care & Maintenance of a Boxollie

The Boxollie isn’t hypoallergenic. Compared to other breeds, its shedding is moderate. It is recommended to brush their coat daily using rubber curry brush if the fur is short. If the coat is of medium length, then use a firm bristle brush and a comb. These two work perfectly in removing tangled fur. This helps in maintaining appearance too. If the legs of the dog are feathered, it is best to get them trimmed by a professional groomer.

This type of animal is not known for drooling or having any offensive smells. Therefore, bathing them often won’t be necessary. However, their ears, nails, and teeth should still receive proper care. The ears should be examined every week for dirt and wax accumulation. Brushing their teeth daily is recommended and their nails should be trimmed every other week. Unless, they grind down on their own, in which case trimming them monthly should be sufficient.

Health of Border Collie Boxer Mix

It’s your job to take care of your pup and make sure they remain healthy. Feeding them a balanced diet, exercising them, and getting them groomed regularly along with regular vet check-ups are all necessary for them to be in optimal condition. Additionally, it’s essential for you to become familiar with their daily habits such as eating, drinking, and sleeping, as any changes in these habits can signal that something is wrong.

All these things are how you can ensure that your Border Collie Boxer mix is healthy and far from any illness.

Diet & Nutrition of Boxer Border Collie Mix

Knowing that these dogs are fairly active, it is expected that they should be fed with quality food. Particularly, the ones that are high in calories and protein. Of course, see to it that it’s rich in essential minerals and vitamins.

On the safe side, add chondroitin and glucosamine supplements. These are perfect for their joint health which serves as great support for their activeness.

Life Span of Boxer & Border Collie Mix

Generally, a Border Collie Boxer mix is known to live a long life, roughly 12 to 15 years. However, this figure could be more or less, depending on how you would treat your dog. Of course, attending to their needs and giving their daily requirements add to their vitality. Do the opposite and your dog may not be able to meet their life expectancy.

Health Issues

Sadly, dogs are not immune to genetic health problems. This includes the Boxer Collie. In fact, these breeds are typically affected by health issues common to its parents. Some of these are elbow and hip dysplasia, eye disorders, hypothyroidism, as well as cardiovascular disease. Fortunately, you can help your dog to avoid from any suffering by taking them to your vet on regular intervals.

Grooming of Border Collie & Boxer Mix

Even if your canine companion appears to be well-kept, grooming offers numerous health advantages. Brushing your pooch’s fur allows air to circulate, assisting it to develop strong and healthy while eliminating dead and damaged fur. Additionally, grooming helps your dog’s skin to breathe and reduce oil in their coat.

A pet groomer has the equipment and know-how that you probably lack. Short-haired breeds rarely need a professional groomer as often as long-haired breeds, but it is a great chance to have your dog checked out thoroughly. They have the necessary tools to bring out the best in your furry friend’s fur. They can provide you with advice on how to groom your pup in your own home.

Professional groomers can provide information on which products work best, how to keep your pooch relaxed, and which tools are ideal for their kind of fur. Additionally, it’s a great way for your dog to become accustomed to a new atmosphere and being handled by unfamiliar people, which can be beneficial in the long-term for a variety of scenarios.

Does It Shed A Lot?

In comparison with other types of canines, Boxers have a tendency to shed moderately. You will be able to observe the amount of shedding based on the season. To help their fur come off quickly, you can brush them more often.

Male vs Female

It is essential to socialize and raise a Border Collie Boxer Mix properly. It’s vital to provide them with training and a tranquil home for them to thrive. In this case, there aren’t many distinctions between males and females. Getting them spayed or neutered will eliminate any distinctions and prevent potential pregnancies, as well as avoid males from straying.

When picking either a male or a female pup, you may want to take into account other pets that you already have. Even amongst the congenial and easy-going Boxollie breed, two animals of the same gender might become competitive with one another. Nevertheless, with training and proper socialization, this should not be a major problem.

Cost of Boxer And Border Collie Mix

the true cost of buying a Border Collie Boxer mix

The cost of a Border Collie pup is approximately $1,000 while a Boxer is around the same price. Therefore, the cost of a Boxollie puppy will likely be at least $800. This cost can differ depending on where you are located and the parent breeds’ lineage.

Puppies of Border Collie And Boxer Mix

A lot of new dog owners would have thought that the price of buying a new puppy is the only thing that they would have to spend their money on. Truth is, there are underlying costs the moment you brought a new puppy to your home. For instance, you would have to buy them toys, dog accessories like collars and leashes, doing frequent visit to the vet, sourcing quality foods and treats, bringing to a professional groomer to keep them in immaculate shape and so forth. If you are not ready for these expenses, then you may want to reserve the idea of getting a Border Collie Boxer mix for the meantime.

Breeders & Shelters

A dependable breeder is out to cover their costs. They’re not in the business to puppy selling as their mainstream income. Do not work with someone who breeds multiple types of dogs. Someone who claim to be specializing in extraordinary colors, sizes, etc. is also a red flag.

Take out of your selection any breeders who only allows for cash or credit cards. The breeder should urge you to come and see them – not propose to meet you at someplace “convenient” to them to make payments and give you the pup. When looking for a breeder, see to it that they are:

  • Screening puppies for any genetic problems
  • Showing paperwork
  • Answering questions with confidence
  • Taking the time to educate you about the pup
  • Helping in decision-making process, even if that points for you to not continue with the purchase
  • Agreeing to provide support and advice throughout the dog’s life if you buy from them

You know that you are with a respected and known breeder if they have a puppy that is in the waiting list. Also, if they are interviewing interested fur parents regarding their capability to care and raise the dog.

Conclusion: Is Border Collie Boxer Mix Right For You?

A Border Collie Boxer mix’s price is around $800 to $1,000 depending on who you talk to. If this is your first time owning and raising a dog and don’t know how to do it, you may want to think of your decision before you push through.

On the other hand, if you are someone who has an active lifestyle and loves to have a companion that you can take with your outdoor trips, the Boxollie can make the most of your trip. These dogs are highly energetic and smart. They require time from their owner to give them their daily needs from exercising them, training and socialization. These are all essential elements in ensuring that you can raise a well-mannered dog.

If you are up for the challenge, it doesn’t really matter whether you have experience with dogs or none.

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