Pet Wiki

Bordoodle

Canis lupus familiaris

Also called Border Collie Poodle mix

A sharp, friendly and affectionate dog that bonds closely with its family.

SizeSmall
Weight7 to 27 kg (15 to 60 lb)12
Height30 to 56 cm (12 to 22 in)12
Lifespan12 to 15 years12
CoatMedium length, wavy to curly
OriginA fairly recent designer cross with little recorded history; the Border Collie parent comes from the Anglo-Scottish border region.23
Last checked2026-10-01
CrossbreedShort profile
very clever and quick to learn
loyal and people-oriented
full of stamina for play and sport
12

Personality what they are like

A sharp, friendly and affectionate dog that bonds closely with its family. With two famously bright parents it picks up new things fast and enjoys having a job, though that cleverness can come with an independent streak. Exact personality depends on which parent a dog takes after.124

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Bordoodle. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

  • Brushingevery week
  • Bathevery 8 weeks
  • Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
  • Ear checkevery 2 weeks
  • Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
  • ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
  • Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
  • Vet check-upevery year

Coat and looks how to spot one

medium length, wavy to curly

The coat is usually thick and medium in length and can be anything from gently wavy like a Border Collie to curly like a Poodle. Which way it goes depends on the individual pup.124

Coloursblack and whiteblackbrownredgreysablemulti-colour12

Daily activity how busy a day looks

High. Aim for roughly 60-90 minutes of exercise a day or more, mixing running or brisk walks with training games and puzzles so the brain gets a workout too.12

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Brush several times a week, or daily for curlier coats, to keep tangles away. Curly-coated dogs need regular haircuts. Check ears and trim nails as part of the routine.12

Home where they are happiest

Happiest with an active family that has time for daily exercise and training; a home with access to outdoor space and plenty to do suits this energetic mix.12

Food basics what goes in the bowl

A complete, good-quality food suited to an active medium dog, split into two meals. Dogster suggests around 2 cups of kibble a day for an active medium-sized Bordoodle, adjusted to the dog.2

Company who they like around

Sociable and usually good with children and other dogs when socialised. The herding instinct may show up as trying to round up cats, kids or other pets.12

The story where it all began

The Bordoodle is a newer designer mix, one of many crosses built around the Poodle since the late 20th century. Both parents have long working pasts: the Border Collie as a sheepdog from the borderlands of England and Scotland, and the Poodle as a water retriever.235

Fun facts for the dinner table

  1. 1

    Both parents are often listed among the most intelligent dog breeds in the world.2

  2. 2

    A Border Collie called Chaser learned the names of more than 1,000 objects.3

  3. 3

    Border Collies can follow voice and whistle commands from long distances while herding.3

  4. 4

    Bordoodles can be anything from small to large, because breeders use Toy, Miniature or Standard Poodles.1

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The Bordoodle, also known as 'Borderdoodle', is a hybrid cross between a purebred Border Collie and a purebred Poodle. The name is a portmanteau combining 'Border' (from Border Collie) and 'doodle' (a common term for Poodle mixes).6

Name ideas for your new friend

PuzzleFizzBrambleNoodleSparkTrixieEchoRiddleZipQuillMoxieSnap

A day in the life told by a Bordoodle

I woke up at dawn, already planning my day. First, I nudged my human awake with a toy in my mouth, time for our morning puzzle! I solved the treat-dispensing game in three seconds flat. Then we ran through the park; I herded a leaf, then a jogger's shoelace. Back home, I learned a new trick: spin left! I nailed it on the second try. After lunch, I watched a squirrel from the window, practicing my stalking pose. When my human came home, I greeted her with a happy dance. Brain tired, heart full.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

The Royal Kennel Club
Crossbreeds are not recognised as pedigree breeds, but they can be registered on the Activity Register and take part in agility, obedience and similar events.4

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Bordoodle tip

Bordoodles are smart and active, so use low-calorie treats for training and keep treats to no more than 10% of daily calories to avoid weight gain. If your dog has itchy skin or a gassy tummy, a hypoallergenic diet may help, ask your vet.

Source: hillspet.com

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

  • 1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

  1. Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
  2. Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
  3. Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

  • 1 cooking pumpkin
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
  • Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

  1. Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
  2. Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
  3. Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
  4. Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
  5. Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
  6. Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
  7. Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

  • 1 egg
  • 170g boiled chicken breast
  • 100g cooked plain rice
  • 60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
  • 680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
  2. Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
  3. Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
  4. Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
  5. Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
  6. Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
  7. Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Bordoodle, and at what times?

Feed your Bordoodle twice a day, ideally in the morning and evening. A complete, good-quality food for active medium dogs works well, with about 2 cups daily adjusted to your dog's needs.27

What should a Bordoodle eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Your Bordoodle should eat a complete, good-quality food suited to an active medium dog. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and many others listed by the ASPCA.28

How often should I bathe a Bordoodle?

Bathe your Bordoodle about every 8 weeks as a starting plan, or at least every three months according to general guidance. More frequent baths may be needed if your dog gets very dirty.9 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Bordoodle need brushing?

Brush your Bordoodle several times a week, or daily if the coat is curly, to prevent tangles. Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests weekly brushing, but adjust based on coat type.12 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Bordoodle's nails, and how often?

Trim your Bordoodle's nails every 4 weeks, or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Trim a little at a time, stopping before the quick.9 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Bordoodle need?

Your Bordoodle needs about 60 to 90 minutes of exercise daily, including walks, runs, and brain games. Pet Wiki recommends daily walks and play.12 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Bordoodle's teeth and ears?

Brush your Bordoodle's teeth daily if possible, at least 2-3 times a week with dog toothpaste. Check ears every two weeks and clean gently without inserting anything.9 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Bordoodle live?

A Bordoodle typically lives between 12 and 15 years.12

Is a Bordoodle good with children and other pets?

Yes, with proper socialisation, a Bordoodle is usually good with children and other dogs. They may show herding instincts with small pets or kids.12

Can a Bordoodle be left alone?

This varies by individual dog; ask your vet or a good breeder for advice tailored to your Bordoodle.

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.

Parents and lookalikes

Border CollieAussiedoodleLabradoodleGoldendoodle

Where this comes from

Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? support@petwiki.app.

  1. Bordoodle Breed Profile - Adopt-a-Pet adoptapet.comused for size, lifespan, exercise, grooming, social traits
  2. Bordoodle - Dogster dogster.comused for origin, size, coat, colours, temperament, exercise, diet, fun fact
  3. Border Collie - Wikipedia en.wikipedia.orgused for parent origin, fun facts
  4. What is a crossbreed dog? - The Royal Kennel Club royalkennelclub.comused for recognition, trait variability
  5. Poodle crossbreed - Wikipedia en.wikipedia.orgused for designer cross trend
  6. bordoodles.com bordoodles.com
  7. VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
  8. ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
  9. ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions

Checked 2026-10-01. Text is written in our own words from these sources.