Border Collies and Pit Bulls may not seem to go together at first glance. However, they actually make a great combination. The Border Collie Pitbull mix is energetic. Their appearance can be difficult to predict, because they can take after either parent.
Border Collie Pit Bull mixes are often known as Border Pits.
History and Where the Border Collie Pitbull Mix comes from
The Border Collie Pitbull mix is thought to have originated in America fairly recently. However, its exact origins aren’t known. It’s not clear who created the first Border Collie Pitbull mix. It’s also a new breed, which means they haven’t been around long enough to have a history.
What we do know is that both parents, the Pit Bull and the Border Collie, have a rich history.
Pit Bull History
A Pit Bull can actually be one of several specific breeds. These include American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT), American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, and the American Bully.
Technically, any of these can be bred with a Border Collie to produce a Border Collie Pit Bull mix. However, generally, the American Pit Bull Terrier is bred with a Border Collie to produce the mix, so we will be exploring the history of this breed.
The Pit Bull is a cross between a terrier and an Olde English bulldog. The bulldog was originally used for a cruel sport known as bull baiting. One or two dogs would be put into the ring with a bull. Their task was to harass or harm the bull until it ultimately went down.
The bulldog’s strong muscular frame and shorter size made it perfect for the task.
In 1835, Britain outlawed the practice. Instead of giving up on the idea of pitting dogs against other animals, they simply changed to a different animal.
Bull baiting turned into ratting. This involved putting dogs in a pit with rats. The dog who killed the most rats in the allotted time would win. Rats were smaller animals, and required more agility. This led to the bull dogs used for bull baiting to be bred with terriers.
The Pit Bull was born. They have strong bodies and a tough temperament like bull dogs. However, they had the agility and quickness of terriers. This made them perfect for ratting.
Eventually, the practice changed again. Ratting fell out of favor, likely because it was difficult to hold ratting contests without being caught by the law. Instead, the pit bulls were pitted against each other, and dog fighting was born.
The same characteristics that made the pit bull great at ratting also made it excellent for fighting other dogs.
Dog fighting did diminish in popularity eventually, but unfortunately it still occurs today. Pit Bulls began earning their keep as farm dogs, and family companions. However, they were still used for dog fighting in the U.S. as well.
Border Collie History
The Border Collie originated in the highlands of Whales and Scotland. It’s thought they got their name because they lived on the border of England and Scotland.
They are descended from other British herding dogs, known as landrace sheep dogs. The breed became what we know and love today in the borderlands.
The Border Collie is an excellent herding dog. In fact, they are still popular as farm dogs today, particularly sheep herding.
It’s thought that all Border Collies originate from one father. He’s known as Old Hemp, and is rumored to have sired more than 200 puppies.
Border Collie Pitbull Mix Facts
The Border Collie Pitbull mix is a new breed, created by breeding a Border Collie and a Pitbull. They are highly intelligent and energetic. They make great family dogs, but they do need lots of time and training.
Border Collie Pitbull Mix Appearance
The Border Collie Pitbull varies in appearance. They may look more like a Border Collie, or resemble their Pit parent. Regardless, you can expect them to have some traits from each breed.
They typically have erect or semi-erect ears. Their eyes are round or oval. Most have short coats with coloring similar to the Border Collie. However, they can have short or long coats.
They can also inherit their coat colors from either parent. They can be red, brindle, black, or white. Most commonly, they have two colors, known as bi-color, like a Border Collie.
Border Collie Pitbull Mix Price and Expenses
Border Collie Pit Bulls start at about $700. You may pay more if one or both parents are registered. The AKC doesn’t recognize most Pit Bulls, but they do recognize Staffordshire terriers. Border Collies can be registered with the AKC.
Beware of backyard breeders. They often charge a lower price for their puppies. However, they do not breed ethically, which can lead to behavioral or health issues.
You may also choose to adopt a Border Collie Pit Bull mix. Adoption fees typically cost between $200-$500.
One Time Expenses
However, purchasing a pup is only the beginning. There are also costs associated with owning a Border Pit. Let’s take a look at the one time expenses that you’ll encounter when purchasing a new puppy.
It’s a great idea to purchase a puppy with a health certificate. This can prevent unexpected health issues in the future. However, you’ll want to bring your new pooch to the vet for a checkup in any case.
You can expect to pay between $300-$500 for an initial vet exam and any needed vaccinations. If you choose to spay or neuter, this cost ranges from $300-$800. A microchip can help you find your pet if they are ever lost. This costs $80.
A crate or dog bed will cost $30-$100. You may need one or both for your new canine companion.
In addition to these larger expenses, there are smaller expenses to consider. Leashes, food bowls, treats, and grooming supplies can cost $50-$100 total.
Border Collie Pitbull Mix Rarity
Border Collie Pitbull mixes are fairly rare, because they are a new breed. However, they are far from impossible to find. As the breed grows in popularity, you can expect them to become more common.
Border Collie Pitbull Mix Life Expectancy
Border Collie Pitbull mixes are a long lived breed. You can expect them to live for 12-14 years.
Border Collie Pitbull Mix Size and weight
You can expect your Border Pit to reach 18 to 22 inches in height. Both their parents are medium sized dogs, with Border Collies being a few inches taller than a Pit Bull.
A Border Collie Pit will weigh between 30-60 pounds when they reach full size. They should grow to their maximum height by the time they are 12 to 15 months old. You can expect them to continue gaining weight until they are 15 months to 2 years old, which is common for dogs of their size.
There’s not enough data on the breed to determine the height differences between males and females. However, both parent breeds have females that are a few inches smaller than males, so you can expect the same for the Border Pit.
Border Collie Pitbull Mix Health
Border Collie Pitbull mixes are considered to be healthy dogs. Hybrid vigor is certainly evident here. Hybrid vigor suggests that mixed breed dogs should have improved performance or characteristics compared to the parent breeds.
Current research suggests that this does exist, but there have only been a few reliably conducted studies of the subject for dogs.
Hybrid vigor or not, a Border Pit is a healthy dog breed with few health issues. However, there are some health issues that they are prone to. This is true with any breed.
Hip Dysplaisa
Hip dysplasia is common in many dog breeds, with large dogs being at the highest risk. Hip dysplasia means that the hip joint doesn’t develop prolery, which can lead the hip to come out of place. This causes pain and mobility issues for the pooch.
Hypothyrodism
Hypothyrodism is a problem for some dog breeds, including the Border Pit. The thyroid is responsible for producing many hormones in the body. Hypothyroidism means that the thyroid doesn’t produce the necessary hormones in the right amounts. It can lead to weight problems and skin issues.
Deafness
Early Onset Adult Deafness, or EAOD, is a hereditary condition for Border Collies. This means a Border Pit could inherit the condition from their Collie parent. Deafness typically occurs between 2 and 6 years old.
Eye Anomaly
This is another Border Collie inherited condition. The condition means the eyes don’t develop normally. The good news is that the condition can be detected at 9 weeks old.
Allergies
Just like humans, dogs can develop allergies. Pit bulls tend to have sensitive skin. The longer coat of the Collie may provide some protection, but Border Pits are still prone to skin allergies.
Border Collie Pitbull Mix Behavior/Characteristics/Temperament
Border Collie Pits make excellent companions and family dogs. They are very loving and energetic. They have lovable personalities, but they can be a handful.
Border Collie Pitbull Mix Personality
They are very energetic. They must get plenty of exercise each day.
If they don’t, you can expect behavioral issues. They may chew on everything in sight. Since they are half Pitbull, they are heavy chewers, and can easily destroy your favorite shoes and even your furniture.
Another issue with Pit Bulls is that they often wander. I had a Pitbull who would disappear for a week or two at a time. They would then show back up at home as if nothing had happened.
You shouldn’t allow your Border Pit to roam freely without supervision, in case they inherit this instinct. It’s also a great idea to get them microchipped, in case they do manage to sneak away.
They are also excellent watchdogs. They are curious and alert. Their temperament is very loving. They need plenty of time and attention, and can suffer from separation anxiety.
Some may inherit the herding instinct from their Collie parent. Don’t be surprised if they try to herd everyone in the household to where they think they should go.
They are highly intelligent, and can be trained fairly easily.
Border Collie PitBull Mix with Children and Other Pets
They are excellent dogs for kids, because they are very patient and tolerant. Of course, children should be taught how to interact with dogs. Behaviors that make the dog uncomfortable or cause pain shouldn’t be allowed. However, these canine companions will not get frustrated if their ears or tails are pulled.
When it comes to a multi-pet household, you may have issues. Some Pitbulls do not get along well with other animals. This is because they were bred for ratting and dog fighting.
Dogs who were aggressive towards humans were undesirable, and often killed. At the very least, they were not bred. However, aggression towards other animals was desired.
Today, many Pitbull owners claim that their dog gets along wonderfully with other animals, including other dogs and cats. However, there are occasionally Pit Bulls that are aggressive towards other animals.
Proper training can prevent this problem in many cases. However, there’s a small chance that a Pit Bull, or a Border Pit, will inherit aggression towards other animals.
How to care for a Border Collie Pitbull Mix
Border Collie Pitbull mixes are excellent pets, if they are cared for correctly. Before you bring one home, you’ll need to understand their needs.
How much exercise do Border Collie Pitbull Mixes need?
Border Pits are very active dogs. They need plenty of exercise, as mentioned earlier. They need at least one hour of physical exercise each day. Two hours each day is even better. It’s best if they have a large yard to run and play in. They don’t do well in small apartments, because of their exercise needs.
They also need plenty of mental stimulation. Border Collies are known as workaholics. They need a job to do to be happy. Pit bulls aren’t quite the workers Collies are, but they have a high need to please.
To keep your Border Pit happy and healthy, be sure they get plenty of mental exercise as well as physical. Playing games with them, puzzle toys, and walks to new places are a few ways to provide mental activity.
Do Border Collie Pitbull Mixes shed a lot?
How much your Border Pit sheds depends on how long their coat is. Generally, they will shed because they are doubled coated. This means they have an undercoat, which isn’t visible, and their topcoat, which is the coat you see.
Double-coated breeds shed more than other breeds. A Border Pit won’t shed quite as much as a Border Collie. They typically shed in the spring and autumn. In the spring, they shed to grow a cooler coat. In the autumn, they shed to bring in a thicker coat.
Do you need to groom Border Collie Pitbull mixes often?
Border Collie Pits need to be brushed about twice a week. If they have longer hair, you may need to brush them every day. This doesn’t have to be time-consuming, however. A quick brushing session is usually all that’s needed, as long as they are brushed often.
In addition, they need regular baths. Once every 2 to 3 weeks is usually enough. If they get dirty often, they may require more frequent baths. If they spend most of their time indoors, you may get by with bathing them once a month.
You shouldn’t bathe them too often, because this can irritate their skin. You should also use a dog shampoo for sensitive skin to prevent skin irritation.
Do you need to train Border Collie Pitbull Mixes a lot?
Yes. Border Collie Pitbull mixes require lots of training. One reason for this is their intelligence. Border Collies are believed to be the most intelligent breed of dog. In fact, a Collie named Chaser, has learned more than 1,000 words.
Pit Bulls have average to above average intelligence as well. Their high intelligence means that they need lots of mental stimulation, including lots of training.
They also need plenty of training because they are an energetic and, at times, stubborn breed. Train them well and early, and you will avoid showdowns as they get older.
Collies have a strong herding instinct, and Pit Bulls can be aggressive if they aren’t trained properly. Training your Border Pit well can help you avoid these behavioral issues.
Border Collie Pitbull Mix Diet
Border Collies and Pitbulls both have a need for a high quality diet. Border Collie Pitbulls have similar dietary needs.
A high quality kibble is a great starting point. Border Collies don’t do well with a raw protein diet, so you should avoid this for your Border Pit. It’s best to feed them a high protein kibble designed for medium dogs.
You can also give them a tablespoon of pumpkin or sweet potato each day. This is beneficial for their coat and digestive system. Fish oil or probiotics can help maintain a healthy coat, and may help prevent allergy issues.
You should feed them 2 to 2 1/2 cups of dry kibble each day. Split it up into 2 or 3 meals to avoid bloat and digestive issues.
Are Border Collie Pitbull Mixes good family pets?
Yes, Border Collie Pitbull mixes are great family pets for the right family. You’ll need to be prepared to provide them with plenty of love, attention, and exercise. If you or your family have the time and energy to care for them properly, this pooch will be a great addition to your family.
Remember, these dogs require a lot of time and effort. They need lots of training, in addition to exercise. However, it’s a worthwhile endeavor. They are some of the best companion dogs in the world today.
How do you buy a Border Collie Pitbull Mix?
Finding a Border Collie Pitbull mix can take a bit of time and effort, but its well worth it. Because they are a new breed, there are not as many established breeders as there are for most breeds.
They also lack the clubs that are built around other breeds because they are a new breed. However, there are a few ways to find your next four legged family member.
Purchasing from a Breeder
One option is to purchase a Border Pit from a breeder. However, you’ll need to be sure they are a reputable breeder.
Unfortunately, Pitbulls are popular with backyard breeders. These breeders raise dogs for profit, with little care about the dogs themselves, or the health of the breed.
Reputable breeders will always put the health of their dogs, and the breed in general, first. If a breeder has its Border Collie registered with the AKC, they are likely reputable. The AKC maintains high standards for breeders. Pit Bulls aren’t registered, unless they are a Staffordshire Terrier.
There are a few other keys to look for as well, particularly if the parents aren’t registered. A reputable breeder should offer a health certificate with the puppies. This means they’ve been checked by a vet, and no health issues were revealed.
It’s also a great idea to visit the dog’s home. The conditions they are raised with can tell you a lot about the dogs and the breeder.
The AKC website is a good starting point when searching for a breeder. They have a directory of breeders for Border Collies around the country. You can then check out the breeder’s websites or contact them to find out if they have Border Pits.
You can also check out the ADBA American Pit Bull Terrier Club. They have chapters around the country, and even around the world. They have classifieds, and a breeder directory. You can contact breeders, and see if they have any Border Collie Pitbull mixes available.
Adopting a Border Collie Pitbull Mix
The other option is to adopt a Border Pit. This provides a home to a pooch that may not find one otherwise. These dogs are often the most loyal. It seems that they know you’ve rescued them.
You can check the local shelters in your area. You can also look for any organizations that adopt either Pit Bulls or Border Collies specifically.
When adopting a dog, you should be prepared to adopt an adult. Puppies are much harder to find than adult dogs. They may also have behavioral issues if they weren’t properly trained or treated well.