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Breed Comparison between Border Collie and Labradoodle

The Border Collie and Labradoodle are two popular dog breeds. Border Collies are highly intelligent and active dogs that were initially bred for herding purposes. Labradoodles, on the other hand, are friendly and affectionate dogs that are a cross between the Labrador Retriever and Poodle. They are often used as therapy or assistance dogs due to their excellent temperament. In the latter parts of this article, you’ll learn more about these two dogs and be able to decide which is best for your lifestyle and needs.

Characteristics of Border Collie and Labradoodle

The size gap between the Border Collie and the Labradoodle is one of their most significant differences. The Labradoodle is a huge dog, whereas the Border Collie is a medium-sized dog.

Additionally, the Border Collie is a member of herding dogs. Sheep, cattle, and even reindeer were among the livestock that herding dogs were bred to move. These dogs collaborate closely with their owners, and they are exceptionally trainable due to their inherent intelligence and attentiveness. They have a lot of energy, which must be carefully channeled to stop negative behavior. Herding breeds make ideal watchdogs because they are very loyal to their owners and their property. They are excellent candidates for dog sports due to their intelligence, agility, and level of activity.

The Labradoodle, on the other hand, is a member of the hybrid dog breed. Dogs that are crossbred are the offspring of two or more well-known but distinct canine breeds.

LabradoodleBorder Collie
Group:Companion dogWorking dog
Origin:AustraliaUnited Kingdom
Height Male:53 - 63 cm or
20 - 25 inches
48 - 56 cm or
18 - 23 inches
Height Female:53 - 63 cm or
20 - 25 inches
46 - 53 cm or
18 - 21 inches
Weight Male:23 - 30 kg or
50 - 67 pounds
14 - 20 kg or
30 - 45 pounds
Weight Female:23 - 30 kg or
50 - 67 pounds
12 - 20 kg or
26 - 45 pounds
Life Span:10 - 14 Years10 - 17 Years

Breed History

The Border Collie originated in the border region between England and Scotland, from the native sheepdogs of the British Isles. Renowned for their toughness and obedience, the Border Collie gained popularity as an exceptional sheep-herding breed, a reputation further enhanced by Queen Victoria’s fondness for the breed in the mid-1800s.

The Border Collie has maintained its standing as a highly intelligent worker over the years. Border Collies have excelled in a variety of sports, including agility, Frisbee, and herding.

The Labradoodle is a special breed of dog with an interesting past. Their narrative starts in Australia. Although an exact date for the start of breeding is still up for debate, researchers generally agree that it happened in 1988 or 1989.

Appearance of Border Collies and Labradoodles

The Border Collie’s appearance is a testament to its working heritage. This medium-sized herding dog typically weighs around 45 pounds and boasts a sturdy yet agile physique on a slender frame. It can have either a short and coarse smooth coat or a medium-length, feathered rough coat. Both coat varieties provide weather protection, and the breed showcases a wide range of color patterns, with black-and-white or tricolor combinations of black, white, and tan being the most common.

Border Collies can have merle or even brindle patterns, though these are less typical and give them an Australian shepherd-like appearance. With their ears set high atop their heads and frequently folded over at the tip, border collies constantly appear vigilant. Their tails are left long and bushy—and never stop wagging—unlike other working breeds.

The Labradoodle has the appearance of a big, cuddly canine bear because of his Poodle parent’s coat. Even though it is the biggest of the three sizes, it nevertheless has a proportionate appearance. Under all that fluff, the Labradoodle has a powerful body that can excel on any agility course. The majority of Labradoodles appreciate the slightly bulkier Lab frame with the elegancy of the Poodle.

Size Comparison

Now let’s discuss the size differences between the Border Collie and the Labradoodle. Fully grown Border Collies generally weigh between 30 and 45 pounds and stand at a shoulder height of 18 to 22 inches.

On the other hand, Labradoodles reach an adult weight ranging from 50 to 65 pounds, with a shoulder height of 21 to 24 inches.

Coats & Colors

The Border Collie breed comes in both rough and smooth coat variations. They have two coats—a softer undercoat and a rougher outer coat. The medium-length rough version has feathering on the belly, chest, and legs. The smooth variant has a generally coarser texture than the rough variety, is short all around, and has less feathering.

Collies typically wear a black coat with a white blaze on his face, neck, feet, legs, and tail tip, whether or not he is tanned. However, these dogs may possess any solid color, merle, bicolor, or tricolor other than white.

Many people believe that the Labradoodle’s coat is their best attribute. The fact that the majority have single-layer coats makes them more suitable for allergy patients. This isn’t always a given, though.

Therefore, you might want to stick with a purebred Poodle or similar hypoallergenic breed if you want your next dog to be simple for allergy sufferers to tolerate. Nevertheless, you should be aware that no dog is entirely hypoallergenic.

Labradoodles exhibit two coat types: “fleece coated” and “wool coated.” The fleece-coated variety boasts a softness reminiscent of angora goat fur, while the wool-coated type possesses a denser texture akin to a sheep’s coat. Labradoodles can have straight, curly, or spirally textured hair.

It’s uncommon for these dogs to have absolutely no wave or curl. Curls on the wool-coated kind are typically looser. Both coats should not be longer than four inches.

Personality & Temperament Difference of Border Collie and Labradoodle

training Border Collie Doberman mix is easy

Most dogs simply want to live life to the fullest and spend endless hours playing in the grass with their friends. But Border Collies don’t have the same outlook on life as other dogs; this top dog values effort and success over frivolous amusement and treats.

This purebred dog needs a lot of exercise; they get up every morning eager to bring you the mail or lead the sheep herd.

Overall, Labradoodles are sociable, fairly playful, and simple to teach. Even though they might not immediately feel at ease around other animals, they eventually do. For big families that are always doing something, they are the perfect breed.

The Labradoodle, in contrast to the prestigious Border Collie, is a hybrid dog created by mating two pure breeds. In essence, they are a cross between a standard Poodle and a Labrador Retriever. The Labrador’s playful behaviors go pretty well with the Poodle’s elegant appearance.

The Labradoodle is comparable to that high school best buddy that never matures. Even as elderly people, or in this case, dogizens, they can still act like children.

They have a lot of energy, are highly friendly and playful, and are constantly seeking for fun and excitement. Labradoodles become so accustomed to being happy-go-lucky that even the smallest sign of grief in their eyes can be upsetting. So, treat them like you would your own darling children!

Dogs towards Family

The most intelligent canine breed is thought to be the Border collie. As a result, they are simple to train and are capable of learning many feats. Border Collies can be taught to obey instructions and carry out household chores as a family pet.

If properly trained, the Labradoodle can make the perfect family pet. It is an intelligent dog. They are affable, accepting, and treat each person as if they were their best friend. They are committed to their family and a fun-loving partner in life.

Kids

The Border Collie improves both the IQ and the work ethic of your household. This breed of dog is exceptionally intelligent, diligent, and goal-oriented. The Border Collie is devoted and can get along well with kids.

While Labradoodles are active and devoted to kids, they have a tendency to get overexcited and may unintentionally trip up younger kids.

Other People

In order for your Border Collie dog to remain well-adjusted as they mature, it is crucial that you socialize them as soon as you bring them home. Take them for walks in the neighborhood, to the dog park, and in the presence of strangers so they can become used to new people and surroundings.

The fortunate Labradoodle is endowed with many of the best traits of both Labradors and Poodles, making them social and affectionate. In general, they are quite affectionate (even with strangers) and love being around people.

Dogs & Other Animals

Border Collies connect with other pets with good intentions since they are herders. Once they get to know them, this breed accepts other animals as playmates and is nonaggressive. But many of their herding habits might be harmful to your other pets. No offense is intended, but you should put in some effort before bringing another pet home.

Due to their heritage as guide dogs, Labradoodles have a pleasant, amiable disposition. They are warm, pleasant with other animals, wonderful with kids, and very bright. They are ideal as pets because of all these characteristics.

Behaviour Issues

Border Collies are renowned for their intelligence and high levels of vigor. If they are not sufficiently physically active and mentally stimulated, their personality qualities might result in destructive and obsessional behavior. The same can occur if you overexert yourself.

Because of their herding instincts, this can result in adult Collies to herd young children, who frequently and unintentionally nip them, frightening younger children and their parents.

Labradoodles are prone to a variety of behavioral issues, including resource guarding, aggression toward other animals, separation anxiety, and destructive chewing. These issues can typically be resolved with appropriate training and socialization, as well as, if necessary, consulting a qualified dog trainer or behaviorist.

Training & Exercise of Border Collie versus Labradoodle

There are several choices available for exercising your Border Collie. It won’t be a leisurely stroll in the park, though. These canines actually require at least a few high-intensity activities throughout their lives. Not that you should avoid taking your Border Collie on walks. Instead, we’re simply stating that your BC shouldn’t exclusively receive exercise through walking.

Owners often break up the Border Collie’s daily activity into multiple sessions. For instance, they may begin the day with a 30-minute walk followed by a 45-minute game of fetch in the park. Finally, they engage in 30 minutes of nighttime running.

Training Labradoodle dogs is simple. Scheduled daily strolls are recommended. This breed can be an excellent choice for you if you lead an active lifestyle.

Taking Care & Maintenance of Labradoodle versus Border Collie

The devoted Border Collie isn’t pretentious, and maintaining his good looks doesn’t require a lot of maintenance. Weekly brushing is required to maintain the coat’s even distribution of oils and to avoid the tough variation of matting in his weather-resistant double coat. To reduce hair shed throughout the house as a result of shedding, more frequent brushing is a good suggestion. Only bathe when necessary, which is roughly every four months or when he is extremely unclean or smells bad.

To maintain your Border Collie’s oral health, it is recommended to brush their teeth at least two to three times per week, which helps remove tartar buildup and the bacteria associated with it. Additionally, monthly nail trimming is advisable, and a weekly check of the ears is essential to look for debris, redness, or signs of infection.

As your dog ages, you should comb their coat once a week, bathe them as needed. Clip their hair every three to four months to keep their Labradoodle “look.” Depending on whether you want a longer or shorter look, you can choose when to get cuts.

Once or twice a year, some owners opt to trim their Labradoodle’s coat to less than an inch in order to completely eliminate all matting and knotting and make room for a new coat. Some owners believe that “shaving” their Doodle in this way makes upkeep simple, as only brushing and light trimming are required in between semi-annual or annual sessions.

Grooming Comparison between Labradoodle versus Border Collie

border collie on a check-up

The Border Collie can have a medium-length double coat that is smooth or rough, with a tough outer coat and a velvety undercoat. They need to be groomed regularly; weekly brushing is essential to keep the coat clear of tangles.

Although border collies who are active may have naturally worn-down nails, it’s crucial to constantly check the nails and clip them as necessary. The feet will stay comfy and healthy as a result of this. Additionally, you should be mindful of dental care and brush your dog’s teeth at least twice or three times every week.

As your Labradoodle transitions from a puppy to an adult, their coat will undergo changes, transitioning from the short and fluffy coat of a puppy to the full coat of an adult dog.

In general, you should count on conducting an efficient basic brushing You might wish to raise the frequency during seasonal sheds for Labradoodles who shed a lot.

Shedding

Because Border Collies are of the long-haired, double-coated variety and have a tendency to shed a significant amount twice yearly, in the spring and the fall, many owners refer to the process of dealing with Border Collie shedding as a full-time maintenance job.

The Labradoodle was originally bred to be a low-shedding dog like the Poodle, but there can be variations in coat type and size even within the same litter. As a result, some people with allergies may have to give up their Labradoodles due to shedding.

Health Profile of Border Collie versus Labradoodle

The Border Collie is susceptible to several ailments like all breeds. Breeders are strongly advised to screen for hip dysplasia and perform a comprehensive eye exam by the Border Collie Association of America.

The club advises additional testing for conditions such trapped neutrophil syndrome, neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis, deafness, epilepsy, and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). It’s true that some Border Collies may experience major health problems, but it’s still crucial to be mindful of these difficulties and be aware of the warning symptoms.

Labradoodles are generally healthy breeds. Nevertheless, they are also prone to the health issues that can affect either of their parent breeds.  There is a risk for Labradoodles, just as there is for Labs, who frequently experience hip and elbow dysplasia. Myopathies, illnesses that affect the muscles, and exercise-induced collapse are among issues that Doodles may encounter.

Life Span Comparison

Border Collies have a 12- to 15-year life span. Border Collies live an average of 13.5 years. The average lifespan of a Labradoodle is between 12 and 14 years with an average of lifespan of 13 years. Compared to Labradoodles, Border Collies live longer.

Diet & Nutrition

giving dogs proper diet

A high-quality, protein-rich diet should be given twice daily to the energetic Border Collie. A typical adult dog needs 1.5 to 2 cups of dry food each day. Although this breed typically maintains its shape and fitness, older dogs may start to gain weight. The feeding schedule may then need to be adjusted.

A diet of 18-22% protein is required for Labradoodles. They can also gain nutrients from cereals, fruits, and vegetables. To maintain their boundless vitality, Doodles must make sure they consume the right amounts of protein, lipids, carbs, and fiber.

Knowing the macronutrients your Labradoodle requires is essential to feeding him food that can promote his development as a puppy and help retain his active and playful character. Your Doodle may become overweight or even malnourished if the protein to fat or protein to carb ratio is off.

Health Issues

Border Collies are described as the highest breed standard, as set by kennel bodies like the AKC, are maintained by responsible dog breeders. Canines who meet these requirements have a lower chance of passing on health problems to their offspring. The breed, however, is susceptible to several inherited health issues. Some situations to be aware of include the following:

  • Hip dysplasia: This disease causes an improper development of the hip sockets.
  • Osteochondrosis (OCD): This leads to an abnormal growth of the cartilage at the end of a bone.
  • Epilepsy is a term that refers to a neurological condition that can cause seizure activity.
  • Collie Eye Anomaly: is a genetic condition that affects this breed. Border Collies typically only experience a little eyesight impairment. Breeders can do this through screening.

Base on research, it shows that there are top five health conditions affecting Labradoodles and these are:

  • Allergies
  • Gastrointestinal problems
  • Ear infections
  • Skin rashes
  • Diarrhea

Because Labradoodles are a hybrid breed, they may be more prone to Labrador or Poodle health problems such as hip dysplasia or PRA or Poodle health problems like Von Willebrand’s illness or Addison’s disease. However, it is equally probable that your Doodle won’t acquire any of these problems at all given how difficult it is to forecast genetics in mix-breed dogs.

Comparing Cost of Getting Border Collie versus Labradoodle

From a respectable breeder, a Border Collie puppy costs between $700 and $1,500. For a top-notch Border Collie puppy, this cost may reach $3,500 or higher. Age, gender, pedigree, and the location of the breeder all affect the price.

It typically costs between $1,500 and $2,500 to purchase a Labradoodle pup from a trustworthy breeder. Be aware that based on a number of variables, including the size and coat color, this price ranges from $1,000 to $4,000 each item.

Puppies

Without the correct socialization as a puppy, a Border Collie can develop fears or shyness. The perceptive Border Collie is helped to develop confidence by puppy lessons and a lot of exposure to various people, places, and things.

Early socialization is crucial for Labradoodles, just like any other dog breed. Exposing them to various individuals, sights, sounds, and sensations during their early stages of development contributes to their well-roundedness as adult dogs.

Breeders & Centers

Border Collies are frequently bought by people who have no real idea on what it takes to own one. Many Border Collies require adoption, fostering, or both. All of the rescues that have taken place in the past have not been accounted for by us. Call the national breed group or your neighborhood breed club to find a Border Collie shelter if you can’t find one listed for your region.

A trustworthy and ethical breeder will charge more for their puppies since they use ethical and responsible methods to produce a healthy litter of Labradoodles. They are not like backyard or puppy mill breeders who use unsuitable breeding methods and create unhealthy puppies. A respectable breeder also makes sure that both parent breeds and their puppies are cared for and healthy.

Conclusion: Which Is Better For Me, Labradoodle or Border Collie?

The Labradoodle and Border Collie are popular dog breeds that have distinct characteristics. Labradoodles are known for their friendly nature and hypoallergenic coat, making them ideal for families and as therapy dogs. Meanwhile, Border Collies are intelligent and active dogs that excel in herding and search and rescue.

Choosing the best breed depends on an individual’s lifestyle and preferences. With proper care and exercise, both breeds can make wonderful companions.

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