Is a Golden Retriever Border Collie mix the right dog for you?

What could be better than blending two popular dog breeds? In this case, a Golden Retriever Border Collie mix becomes a Golden Border Retriever or Coltriever.

On the one hand, you have the golden retriever, which is a smart, intelligent, playful dog, and then on the other, you have the border collie, which is also intelligent and hard-working.

Today, we’re going to explore the dog’s size, health, training, and much more.

If you’re curious to find some more information about a Golden Retriever Border Collie mix, then keep reading to find out everything you need to know.

Start with a look at the parent breeds

Golden Retrievers date back to the early 1900s, where they were used to retrieve shot waterfowl during games put together for Lord Tweedmouth. The golden retriever was bred from the yellow retriever and now extinct Tweed water spaniel, which explains why this dog is so intelligent and useful in water, too!

The American Kennel Club first recognized the breed in 1925, and since the 1970s, it regularly ranks high on the popular breed list.

You can expect an adult male Golden Retriever to stand 24 inches tall and weigh about 75 pounds. Females typically are smaller.

Goldens are full of energy and love and require early training and socialization.

Border Collies are intelligent, affectionate, and loyal dogs. The Border Collie originated in Northumberland, on the border of England and Scotland, and got its name from that location. The breed was developed to herd livestock, especially sheep. 

Male Border Collies typically stands 22 inches tall and weighs 44 pounds. Females usually are slightly smaller.

Who created the Golden Retriever Border Collie mix?

There is no hardcore evidence as to who first created the Coltrriever mix. The AKC has not recognized the breed, and you’ll have a hard time finding reputable breeders who produce them.

On the plus side, you’re more likely to find these loveable dogs at shelters. If you decided to bring one home,  you could be guaranteed that you’ll be getting a good dog.

Because mixed breeds typically exhibit the best traits of their parent breeds, these dogs are friendly, loving, and caring.

Temperament

This dog is entirely suitable for any family or single person, too. Youll find that they are fun, caring, and loving dogs. They are smart and easy to train because they will follow instructions and learn new tasks.

They do, however, tend to be a bit clingy and like plenty of attention from their families. If you get this mixed breed, be prepared to spend lots of time with them or schedule a dog walker or other caregiver to interact with the dog during the day.

The dogs typically become protective of their owners and will notify you anytime there is a stranger at the door. You’ll never be dissatisfied with the Border Collie Golden Retriever mix because the dogs are loving and always willing to please their owners. 

Health issues

Unfortunately, this mixed breed also picks up the health traits of its parent breeds. The dogs are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, which is a common problem for Golden Retrievers. It’s crucial to keep your dog active and to maintain a healthy weight. 

The dogs also are prone to heart conditions and cancer, just like their parents’ breeds. And because Goldens can experience eye conditions such as juvenile cataracts, pigmentary uveitis, and progressive retinal atrophy, so do any mixes that involve the breed.

Training

This mix does well if you start obedience training when the dogs are young. They are smart dogs who quickly learn to follow commands.

Because the dogs are open to learning new skills, they also tend to excel at agility training.

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Grooming a Golden Retriever Border Collie mix

The Golden Retriever Border Collie mix typically needs regular brushing and weekly ear cleaning to avoid ear infections.

This dog will shed a lot, so you need to brush your dog to prevent having hair all over the house. Avoid bathing them too often to avoid drying out their skin.

Brush their teeth daily and trim their nails every four to six weeks. 

A cool dog to bring home

Overall I’d say that the Golden Retriever Border Collie mix is a cool dog to have. It’s new, it’s trendy, and this breed mix creates fun, loving, and caring family dogs. 

In fact, the two breeds mix so well you also could consider other mixes like the Border Collie Golden Retriever Sheltie mix, the Australian shepherd Border Collie Golden Retriever mix, or the Rough Collie Golden Retriever mix. 

Whether you’re a family of five or just one, this will make a great addition to the family. Just be sure to start training early, and you should have a smooth ride with this dog.   

Rachael Summers is a writer, pet lover, and regular coffee drinker who shares her tips and tricks online for taking the best care of your dog. She provides her advice on her site, Retrieversareus.com.

 

 

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