It’s no surprise that the finest herding dog breeds in the world, the Border Collie and the German Shepherd, would combine to create a new dog breed with exceptional energy and intelligence. They are exceptionally devoted, making them excellent candidates for a career as herders, guards, or police dogs due to their versatility. Additionally, they make a great companion for someone who can provide them with the required level of both mental and physical stimulation. These dogs, affectionately called Shollies, require a lot of time and effort but are well worth the investment.
If you are on the side of getting a Shollie, see the following information below and get to know more about this amazing designer dog.
What Is a Border Collie German Shepherd Mix?
Both the purebred German Shepherd and the Border Collie are very popular dog breeds, so it seems sensible that they would breed to create the Shollie. Neither of Shollie’s parents was particularly well-known, but this hybrid breed has failed to gain widespread recognition. The American Canine Hybrid Club and the Dog Registry of America are the only organizations that officially recognize the Shollie at the present time.
The Shollie is really an excellent family dog with some of the highest canine intelligence. They can be fiercely protective of their families while remaining gentle with those they care about. Many Shollies retain their German Shepherd looks, however, the Border Collie’s physical traits are still visible, albeit in a more subtle way.
Key Characteristics of German Shepherd Border Collie Mix
| CATEGORY | CHARACTERISTICS |
|---|---|
| Size | Medium to Large |
| Height | 18 - 29" |
| Weight | 70 - 80 lb. |
| Coat Color | Mixed colors |
| Companionship | Very loyal |
| Trainability | Most easily trainable |
| Intelligence | Smart |
| Energy Levels | High |
| Obedience | High |
The Border Collie German Shepherd Mix has ancestors with an incredible body build. This is to be credited to their powerful gait. It averagely weighs 70 pounds and its height might fall between the mature height range of its parents.
Some of this breed’s characteristics are very similar to those of their parents. They appear to be intelligent, energetic, athletic, pleasant, faithful, and watchful, to name a few characteristics. It will also have some distinguishing features that are unique to it. They will always have herding instincts, but in your household, they may or may not be good herders!
You can easily train them with plenty of patience and encouragement. Don’t be fooled by the German Shepherd Border Collie Mix; they can also make great guard dogs! They are not small and would certainly deter any unauthorized person from entering your home!
Dogs have lightning-fast reflexes and acute senses. So don’t be concerned about this dog getting harmed in a battle with another dog because very few pups would choose to go up against a German Shepherd Border Collie Mix! This mix is indeed very athletic but also enjoys running about. If you have a large backyard, that’s fantastic, but they also require frequent walks or jogs if you don’t have a big enough backyard for them to play in.
Don’t ever be shocked if the mix prefers to rip up your chair from time to time; it could arrive out of its relatives as well! However, it is frequently the method you practice with this dog as a pup! They are compliant animals who are acutely aware of their owners’ needs. When training this breed, patience is key; don’t be too quick.
History of German Shepherd Border Collie Mix
German Shepherds and Border Collies are the parent breeds of the Shollie. When it comes to intelligence and work ethics, both of these parent breeds are highly credited for. Even though they are both popular, the Shollie breed is still unknown showing scant records of historical data.
The German Shepherd is a huge domesticating dog that originated in Germany in the 18th century as a result of Captain Von Stephanitz’s efforts. Stephanitz desired a herding dog that was unrivaled in both herding and guardianship for German farms. However, as the German Shepherd evolved, the demand for herding and farm dogs decreased significantly because of industrialization.
Due to the intelligence, elegance, and agility of the local herders, fanciers in the British Isles developed a breed they called the Border Collie from a line of English Shepherds. Originating on farms and meadows on the border between Scotland and England, the Border Collie is descended from native dogs that mixed with invading Roman breeds. In addition to being a Scottish Gaelic word for “sheepdog,” the name “Border” refers to the area where these two countries meet. The Border Collie was created as a consequence of the passionate efforts of fanciers who wanted to create an agility dog for competition with superior herding skills.
Appearance of Shollie
German Shepherd has a normal height of around 22 to 26 inches, with males often measuring taller than their female counterparts by about an inch or two. Meanwhile, Border Collies are compact canines measuring 18 inches tall and 22 inches wide to a maximum. It is actually rare to see Shollies smaller than 20-inch. Their usual weight range falls from 70 to 90 pounds.
Colors
Most Shollies are a two-toned blend of their parents’ hues, but Shollies can be as many as four different colors golden, brown, black, and white. Mottled patterns are common, and they are usually rather appealing.
Weight & Height of a Shollie
Both the Border Collie and the German Shepherds, parent breeds of the Shollies, fall under the average-sized and large dog breeds. That’s why the Shollie is a large breed of dog. Exact size requirements may vary, as is typically the situation with newer combined dog breeds. This dog breed most likely weighs between 70 and 80 pounds but also holds between 21 and 29 inches in height.
Personality & Temperament of German Shepherd Border Collie Mix
A bridge between 2 of such world’s finest herding dogs is bound to produce highly intelligent and energetic offspring. That’s precisely what you get when you cross a Border Collie and a German Shepherd. The said dog is destined to be sharp and intelligent since both relatives are known to be at the top of their game, whether it’s protecting, herd behavior, or Search and Rescue operations. German Shepherd Border Collie Mix is full of energy, gentle and caring, faithful, and overly possessive. They are also aloof, aggressive, playful, intelligent, and simple to train.
Are They Generally Good Dogs?
The hybrid German Shepherd-Border Collie is a tough, devoted, and guardian animal. It is very affectionate and enjoys being the center of attention. The hybrid has become so well-liked that some may think it is actually a purebred. Given that both parent breeds of this hybrid dog are tolerant of new owners, novice owners shouldn’t have any trouble teaching it.
Is Border German Shepherd Mix Aggressive?
This German Shepherd Border Collie mix can give the impression that it is an aggressive dog who is often wary of strangers and should not be approached lightly. As puppies, they may bite or nip children or other smaller animals until they are properly trained and socialized. When properly cared for and trained at a young age, the Shollie can be the most affectionate family pet.
Does Shollie Bark A Lot?
The Collie Shepherd very seldom barks at random. They could growl to notify you when they perceive a danger towards you and your family due to their protective nature. This crossbreed is suitable for apartment living because it is not a yappy dog and will not disturb your neighbors with constant noise.
Is Border Collie German Shepherd Mix a Good Family Dog?
The fact that the Border Collie-German Shepherd mix enjoys being with its human companions further cements the breed’s suitability as a household pet. This hybrid dog will make the perfect companion for active owners. Being protective of its human pack will assist keep your children safe from harm.
Many people considered this dog mix a fantastic companion as it adores everyone around. If you are an energetic owner, then this mixed breed is for you! Expect to have a bright, active, devoted, and loving dog when welcoming a German Shepherd Border Collie mix.
Is Border German Shepherd Mix Good With Children?
For families with young children, the Shollie is an ideal companion. There will be times when the dog acts as a guard dog and also has fun playing with the kids. If you have a huge dog and a young child, it’s important to ensure that they are properly socialized from a young age and that limits are established early on. Also, make sure to keep an eye on the situation as much as possible.
Is Border German Shepherd Mix Good With Other Pets?
The Shollie generally gets along with other domestic animals and other home pets. Despite this, you need to make sure that you keep a close eye on the early interactions between the dog and the other members of your family when you first bring the dog home.
Training & Exercise of German Shepherd Border Collie Mix
Consistency is key when training a German Shepherd Border Collie mix. The sooner you establish yourself as the pack leader, the more likely it is that this dog will grow to be your greatest buddy in the future. This dog is very eager to serve its owner. For this breed of pup, early socialization is essential if you wish for it to mature into a well-rounded dog.
Exercise Requirements
A Shollie is not a dog for the couch, and instead needs plenty of time spent outdoors. Without regular agility training and task-based fun, a Shollie may develop destructive boredom and behavior issues, according to its Border Collie ancestry. A dog owner with experience and dedication is necessary for these intelligent and energetic pets. Negative behaviors like destruction, anxiety, violence, or timidity will emerge in a Shollie who isn’t mentally and physically stimulated.
It is essential to have a fenced-in yard for Shollie, as he or she needs to spend at least an hour a day in the great outdoors. Dogs of the German Shepherd and Border Collie mix breed need at least 30 minutes of daily exercise to keep them happy and healthy. Keeping your dog from getting bored or frustrated will take longer than 30 minutes if he is still a puppy. Walk, jog, run, swim, or play fetch with your dog to meet their daily exercise needs.
Taking Care of Border Collie Shepherd Mix
Give your dog his own safe space, such as a dog crate. This gives the dog a place to relax or escape stress, as well as a way to securely handle as well as restrict him when needed. Border Collies and their mixes require quiet time, especially after exercise. To relieve stress and promote tooth health, give your dog chew toys.
Grooming, Shedding, And Coats of a Shollie
If you’re looking for a low-maintenance dog, a Shollie is not the breed for you. This dog has a thick coat that sheds a lot. Brush the Shollie each day to help remove hair and prevent it from accumulating. The thinning would therefore boost much more two times per year.
You will also need to bathe your Shollie on occasion, but not too frequently. Bathing too frequently can deplete the natural oils that keep their skin and fur healthy.
Health of a Border Collie Shepherd Mix
Health issues will always arise from crossbreeding. Fortunately, when compared to other designer dogs, the German Shepherd Collie seems to be really healthy. When purchased from a reputable breeder, a mixed German Shepherd could indeed live for up to fifteen years without disease or illness. Despite being in good health, this hybrid dog will eventually develop age-related health issues.
Health Issues of a Shollie
The hybrid Shepherd Collie has better health than either of its parents. The health issues common to purebred dogs are less likely to arise in this breed.
The severity of any illnesses is mild, and even if they manifest, their symptoms are mild. On the other hand, there is a possibility that some hybrids will inherit genetic disorders from both of their parents, particularly those health problems that are typical of the German Shepherd Dog and the Border Collie.
Hip Dysplasia
Both the Border Collies and German Shepherds, like several other huge breeding dogs, seem to be susceptible to canine hip dysplasia (CHD). It is a bony disorder in animals that may be acquired or ended up caused by a distressing cracking or even other external factors. CHD is caused by a deformity of the socket and ball with one or both hips (the hip joint is called the coxofemoral joint). Knowing that both parent breeds of the Shollies are prone to this doggy disease, it is good to assume that the Border Collie German Shepherd Mix is also prone to hip dysplasia.
Elbow Dysplasia
Some dogs suffer from a group of disorders known as elbow dysplasia, which affects their forelimbs, and the Shollies are not an exemption. It will become apparent to you when the dog first begins to shuffle its feet, and it will ultimately result in the dog becoming lame.
Epilepsy
Although Border Collies, one of the parent breeds of the Shollies, can also develop epilepsy, there is currently little research to determine whether or not this condition is passed down to their hybrid offspring.
Ear Problems
Ear infections are a common concern for both the German Shepherd and the Border Collie, the two breeds from which the hybrid was developed. If a hybrid dog’s owner doesn’t regularly check and clean the dog’s ears, the dog could develop an infection that would eventually cause it to lose its hearing. When one or both of the animal’s parents have hearing loss, the offspring may also have the condition.
Border Collie German Shepherd Mix Life Span
The life expectancy of the Border Collie and German Shepherd mix is somewhere between 10 and 15 years. These designer dogs have the potential to reach the ripe old age of 17 if they are treated with the utmost care, provided with the appropriate nourishment, and put through sufficient activity.
Is Shollie Hypoallergenic?
Even while there is no breed of dog that is 100 percent hypoallergenic, there are many different breeds that are suitable for people who suffer from allergies. These canines have coats that do not shed and are easy to maintain, which means they produce far less dander.
However, certain dog breeds are naturally more resistant to allergens than others. In contrast to other hybrid dog breeds, such as Irish Doodles, Goldendoodles, Sheepadoodles, and Labradoodles, German Shepherd and Collie Mixes are not considered to be hypoallergenic mix breeds.
Feeding & Diet
Shollies are prone to gaining weight, as such one‘s nutrition must include biochemically suitable enzymes, good fats, soil tendons, and veggies – which are all high in essential minerals and vitamins – for optimized performance and health.
As with any change of diet, folks must keep a close eye on their pet’s body mass and physical features as they adjust to their new diet. The amount of food you give your dog each day is determined by several factors.
Cost of a Border Collie German Shepherd Mix
A Shepherd Collie puppy will currently cost between $400 and $1100, but this price range is subject to change depending on the popularity of these dogs as well as the location from which you choose to make your purchase. It goes without saying that adopting an adult Shollie dog will be less expensive.
Shollie puppy adoption fees are typically no more than $200. As with any other pet, you must consider the costs of his upkeep from the moment you bring him home. You must ensure that your budget includes registration fees, food, bedding, toys, veterinarian visits, and other costs.
Where To Get A Border Collie Shepherd Mix Puppy?
Online, one can find puppies for sale that are a cross between a Border Collie and a German Shepherd. Greenfield Puppies and Lancaster Puppies are only two examples of online dog breeders selling Shollies.
Border Collie and German Shepherd breeders occasionally have puppies that are a combination of the two breeds. Some examples of such breeders are:
- Nadelhaus in California
- Midwest in Illinois
- Nightshades in Kansas
- Rising Sun Farms in Minnesota
Rescue Groups
Border Collies and German Shepherds are two of the most sought-after dog breeds, so you might find them at a local shelter. This is due to the fact that their owners did not adequately prepare themselves to care for them. Because of the substantial time and effort required, we don’t suggest getting a large dog if it’s your first pet. Although easy to train, Border Collies, German Shepherds, and Shollies require a lot of attention. Don’t take them on unless you’re sure you can handle the responsibility.
Despite not knowing the dogs’ origin stories, you’ll be providing them with a safe and loving environment to call home. Get started on their training right away to ensure a positive response. If you’re looking for a chance to save a Shollie, the excellent resources provided here might just be it. If you are looking for a puppy, you should check out All Shepherd Rescue as well as Come Bye Border Collies.
Male Vs Female Shollies
In most cases, male Shollies will be significantly larger than females. Even when they get older, males typically maintain their more aggressive demeanor and boundless levels of energy. In keeping with the pattern seen in other dog breeds, the females reach adulthood more quickly. In contrast, spaying or neutering your puppy eliminates a primary biological driver of male or female behavior, resulting in far less pronounced gender differences.
Conclusion: Should I Get A Shollie?
The bright German shepherd/Border Collie mix requires a household that can meet its exercise requirements. Make it a point to run around the neighborhood with them on a regular basis. You must pay them a great deal of attention since failure to do so will only lead to difficulties for you and your family. One of the few large breeds we would recommend to first-time dog owners is the Shollie because of how easily they can be trained. You’ll have no trouble winning their affection at all.
Whether you’re herding sheep or cattle, a Shollie is the perfect working dog for the job. These canines are extremely dependable companions who thrive on routine and purposeful activity. The best places for them are farms and large plots of land. All of these things together make it obvious that you should get a Shollie. If you pay attention to your Shollie’s demands, city life can be enjoyed with your furry friend by your side for the rest of its days.
