The Border Collie Dachshund Mix: A Guide to This Unique Hybrid Dog

PETSIDI – The Border Collie Dachshund mix is an increasingly popular mixed breed dog resulting from crossing a Border Collie with a Dachshund. This unusual crossbreed combines the intelligence and agility of the Border Collie with the small size and tenacity of the Dachshund.

While this hybrid dog is not recognized as an official breed by major kennel clubs like the AKC, it is growing in popularity among designer dog enthusiasts and owners looking for an energetic and loyal canine companion.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore everything you need to know about this unique crossbreed, including:

• The history and origin of the Border Collie Dachshund mix
• Their typical temperament and behavioral traits
• Health considerations and potential issues to be aware of
• Training and exercise needs
• Their suitability as family pets and for different lifestyle situations
• Finding reputable Border Collie Dachshund mix breeders
• Adopting a Border Dachshund mix from a rescue or shelter
• Costs associated with owning this hybrid dog

Gaining an understanding of this distinctive crossbreed will help you determine if the Border Collie Dachshund mix would make a good addition to your home.

Origins of the Border Collie Dachshund Mix

The practice of creating hybrid dog breeds through selective crossbreeding has become increasingly popular over the last few decades.

Designer dogs like the Border Collie Dachshund mix allow breeders to combine desired traits from two purebred parent breeds.

While the exact origins of this particular crossbreed are unknown, it likely first appeared in the 1990s or early 2000s along with many other popular hybrid dogs.

Some of the motivations for creating the Border Dachshund mix include:

• Taking advantage of hybrid vigor – Crossbreeding tends to increase genetic diversity and health in the offspring
• Creating a small dog with the Border Collie’s intelligence
• Producing a energetic and athletic dog suited for agility and other dog sports
• Developing a loyal watch and companion dog with the alertness of the Dachshund
• Appealing to the growing popularity of unique or rare crossbreed dogs

While they have likely been around for a couple decades, Border Collie Dachshund mixes remain relatively uncommon compared to other hybrids like Labradoodles or Maltipoos. Their growing popularity indicates this is likely to change in the coming years.

Border Collie and Dachshund Breed Characteristics

To better understand the traits of this crossbreed, it is helpful to learn about the characteristics of its two parent breeds:

Border Collie

• Highly energetic, athletic, and intelligent herding dogs originally developed in Scotland
• Known for their intense stare used for herding livestock
• Excel at agility, flyball, Frisbee, and other dog sports
• Require constant mental and physical stimulation
• Very responsive to training but can be prone to neurotic behaviors without enough activity
• Have unlimited energy and stamina
• Tend to closely bond with one person
• Medium-sized dogs weighing 30-45 lbs

Dachshund

• Bred to hunt badgers and other prey by burrowing into dens and tunnels
• Intelligent with a bold, tenacious, and lively personality
• Prone to stubbornness, jealousy, and excessive barking
• Short-legged dogs bred for endurance with surprising speed and agility
• Weigh 16-32 lbs and come in standard and miniature sizes
• Lifespan of 12-16 years
• Can be aloof with strangers but very devoted to their people
• Require regular exercise but are lower energy than Border Collies

By combining these two pure breeds, Border Collie Dachshund mixes inherit an interesting blend of traits from each parent.

Typical Temperament and Personality

While hybrid dogs can exhibit wide variations due to their genetic diversity, Border Collie Dachshund mixes tend to display some common behavioral qualities:

• Energetic, playful, and very active dogs
• Intelligent and headstrong, but highly trainable
• An intense desire to be close to their owners
• Protective instincts and alert, watchful behavior
• A strong prey drive – likely to chase small animals
• Moderate amounts of barking and moderate separation anxiety
• Curiosity and fearlessness similar to Dachshunds
• Higher exercise needs than the average dog
• Affectionate and intensely loyal once bonded with their family

Early socialization and training is essential to prevent negative behaviors like excessive barking, destructiveness, aggression, anxiety and difficulty being alone.

Proper handling can produce a delightful canine companion who is a vigilant watchdog and energetic hiking or jogging buddy.

Appearance and Size

The Border Dachshund mix is a medium-small crossbreed, with most ranging from 10 to 22 lbs and standing 10 to 15 inches tall.

There is no standardized appearance for these hybrid dogs. They can inherit a mix of physical traits from both ancestral breeds, sometimes looking more like one parent than the other.

Some common physical features include:

• A moderately long, muscular body
• Slightly shorter legs compared to a Border Collie
• Pointy upright Dachshund ears or floppy Collie ears
• Can have a Dachshund’s long body and short legs or a Border Collie’s athletic build
• A medium-length muzzle and dark almond-shaped eyes
• Coat colors like black, brown, white, tan, brindle, merle, or spotted
• Dense double-layered coats of medium length like a Border Collie

These dogs are definitely cute characters with their unique blend of mismatched features. No two Border Dachshund mixes will look exactly the same.

Lifespan and Health Issues

Border Collie Dachshund mixes generally have a life expectancy of 12-15 years.

Crossbreeding tends to increase overall health and longevity by reducing the chances of inheriting genetic diseases. However, these hybrid dogs can still be prone to certain health conditions, especially those affecting both parent breeds:

Potential Health Problems

• Intervertebral Disc Disease – Degeneration of discs in the spine, more common in Dachshunds
• Collapsing Trachea – Common respiratory issue in small dogs
• Hip Dysplasia – Abnormal development of hip joints
• Eye Problems – Collie Eye Anomaly, cataracts, or progressive retinal atrophy
• Epilepsy – Seizure disorder with potential genetic causes
• Patellar Luxation – Kneecap dislocation, often seen in small dogs
• Obesity – Weight gain if overfed and underexercised

As with any dog, maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, and vet checkups can help reduce health problems. Discuss screening for genetic issues with reputable breeders.

Exercise and Activity Requirements

Border Collie Dachshund mixes have fairly high exercise needs and thrive when given ample daily activity.

• At least 30-60 minutes of vigorous exercise per day
• Active games like fetching balls or frisbees
• Enjoy learning new tricks and dog sports like agility
• Must be leashed or fenced when outdoors due to chasing instincts
• Mentally stimulating toys can help meet their needs when indoors
• Risk of obesity and separation anxiety if under-exercised

These energetic hybrids do best in active homes with owners who can give them both mental and physical stimulation through training, play, and outdoor adventures.

Training and Optimal Living Environment

Border Dachshunds are intelligent dogs who need interactive training with positive reinforcement methods. Their herding heritage makes them very responsive to commands.

• Respond extremely well to reward-based training
• Early socialization helps minimize problem behaviors
• Can be prone to chasing, nipping, and barking without proper training
• Owners need to establish clear leadership to avoid Small Dog Syndrome
• Require companionship – not good left alone for long periods
• Tend to be friendly towards children but supervision is still required
• Apartments are possible but a fenced yard is ideal for play and exercise
• Access to outdoors is a must to meet their activity requirements

With their need for exercise and interaction, Border Dachshunds are better suited for active owners able to provide training, playtime, and long walks. They can adapt well to most home environments as long as their physical and mental needs are met.

Suitability as a Family Dog and Pet

Border Collie Dachshund mixes can make excellent family companions when properly exercised and socialized.

Some of the factors making them a good choice for households with kids include:

• Lively, playful, and affectionate once bonded to the family
• Relatively small size compared to many dogs
• Trainability allows teaching good manners to children
• Watchful and protective of their family members
• Enjoy active games and outdoor play with kids
• Early socialization helps them interact safely with young children
• Can be timid or nippy around toddlers without training
• Require supervision due to herding instincts around rambunctious kids

In general, these crossbreeds tend to be devoted and loyal once they form strong attachments. Their moderate energy makes them fun playmates suitable for families able to meet their exercise quotas.

Finding a Reputable Border Collie Dachshund Breeder

As the popularity of designer dogs increases, it’s important to take care when selecting a breeder of Border Dachshund mixes.

Characteristics of a responsible, ethical breeder include:

• Focuses on health and temperament over looks or profits
• Screens breeding stock for hereditary issues
• Provides health guarantees for their puppies
• Allows you to meet the puppy’s parents in person
• Raises litters in a clean home environment
• Socializes pups appropriately before sending them home
• Asks you lots of questions to ensure their dogs go to good homes
• Can provide references from past puppy buyers

Avoid breeders who seem focused solely on money, have multiple litters available, or refuse to show you where they raise their dogs. Locating a conscientious breeder is the best way to get a happy, healthy Border Collie Dachshund mix pup.

Adopting a Border Dachshund Mix from a Rescue or Shelter

There are many Border Dachshund mixes in need of adoption from rescues and shelters across North America.

Some of the benefits of adopting include:

• Giving an abandoned dog a second chance at a happy life
• Usually lower costs compared to buying from a breeder
• The satisfaction of providing a home to a dog in need
• The ability to adopt adults with known temperaments
• Possibility of adopting pre-trained or housetrained dogs

Be sure to ask about the dog’s history and temperament testing when adopting. With a little patience, you can find your perfect Border Collie Dachshund mix awaiting adoption.

Pet Care Costs and Expenses

While less expensive than many purebreds, Border Dachshunds do incur costs associated with properly caring for them. Estimated expenses for a Border Collie Dachshund mix include:

Initial Costs

• Adoption fee or purchase price – $200 to $1000
• Supplies like leashes, bowls, crates, and toys – $150 to $300
• Initial vet exam, vaccinations, and deworming – $300 to $500

Annual Costs

• Food and treats – $300 to $500
• Routine vet care – $500 to $700
• Pet insurance – $300 to $600
• License registration – $10 to $20
• Toys/misc supplies – $150 to $250

Unexpected Costs

• Medical emergencies or significant illness – $1000+
• Injuries requiring surgery – $2000+
• Specialized training to address behavior issues – $500 to $2000

Prospective owners should ensure they can comfortably meet the financial obligations of pet ownership before bringing one of these energetic crossbreeds home.

Is a Border Collie Dachshund Mix the Right Dog For You?

Border Dachshunds can make wonderful pets for the right owners, but are not ideal for everyone. Consider if this breed meets your needs:

Good For

• Active singles, couples or families able to provide ample exercise
• Those wanting a devoted, loyal companion animal
• Experienced dog owners used to high-energy breeds
• People with access to a fenced yard for playtime
• Owners with flexibility to spend time on training and activity
• Families with children old enough to interact safely

Not Ideal For

• Elderly or sedentary owners unable to exercise them
• First-time dog owners unfamiliar with training needs
• Families who need a laidback lap dog
• People who travel often or must leave dog alone frequently
• Homes where the dog would be alone over 8 hours per day
• Owners looking for obedience championships or dog shows

Making an honest assessment of your lifestyle and experience will help determine if this unique hybrid would suit your circumstances.

The Appealing Border Collie Dachshund Mix

This first-generation cross between a Border Collie and Dachshund produces some intriguing combinations. Border Dachshunds have the lively, alert temperament of both parent breeds along with an affectionate loyalty.

While challenging for novice owners, these smart, energetic hybrids can thrive in active homes able to provide them with training, companionship, and outlets for their stamina. With appropriate care by experienced handlers, the Border Collie Dachshund mix makes a devoted family companion.

Common Questions about Border Collie Dachshund Mixes

Many prospective owners have questions about these unique hybrid dogs. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about Border Collie Dachshund mixes:

Are Border Dachshunds healthy dogs?

While crossbreeding increases hybrid vigor, they can still inherit some health issues from their parent breeds. Overall though, they tend to be pretty sturdy dogs. Buying from responsible breeders who screen for problems helps ensure a healthy puppy.

How big do Border Collie Dachshund mixes get?

Most Border Dachshunds reach 10-22 pounds and 10-15 inches tall at maturity. There is variety based on whether they take after the larger Border Collie or the smaller Dachshund parent.

Do Border Dachshunds shed?

Yes, these dogs shed moderately year-round and more heavily during seasonal shedding cycles. Their thick double coats require weekly brushing to control loose hair.

Are Border Collie Dachshund mixes good family dogs?

They can be excellent family companions when socialized properly. Their moderate energy makes them a better choice for families than hyper Border Collies. Supervision is still required when small children are present.

How long do Border Dachshunds live?

You can expect a Border Dachshund to live 12-15 years with proper care, nutrition, exercise, and regular vet checks. The lifespan of hybrid dogs tends to exceed that of purebreds.

Do Border Dachshunds bark a lot?

They have moderately high barking tendencies inherited from the vocal Dachshund parent. Early training is needed to prevent nuisance barking and separation anxiety. Their watchfulness also makes them prone to alert barking.

Are Border Dachshunds easy to train?

Yes, these hybrids are highly intelligent and usually eager to please when positive reinforcement is used. Their Border Collie background makes them very responsive to interactive training started early.

Do Border Dachshunds need a lot of exercise?

Yes, at least 30-60 minutes of vigorous daily exercise is recommended. They thrive on activities like running, hiking, agility training, and active games with their owners. Under-exercised Border Dachshunds can develop problem behaviors.

Can Border Dachshunds live in apartments?

Border Dachshunds can adapt to apartment living provided they get adequate outdoor exercise time each day. Access to a secure yard is best, but apartments are possible with a committed owner.

Where can I find Border Collie Dachshund mix puppies for sale or adoption?

Check with local reputable breeders or rescue organizations. Be sure the breeder health tests their breeding dogs and raises puppies humanely. Adopting a mix from a shelter or rescue also saves a life.

Final Thoughts

For experienced dog lovers seeking a smart, energetic, and loyal canine companion, the Border Collie Dachshund mix has a lot of appeal. Their high exercise needs and training requirements make them better suited to active owners able to properly stimulate these bright hybrids both mentally and physically.

With their playful spirit, watchful nature, and affectionate personality, Border Dachshunds can be a great addition to the right household. We hope this guide has helped you decide if one of these distinctive designer dogs would be the perfect fit for you!