Bordoodle
Hybrid / Designer · Hybrid · The world's smartest breeds combined — a dazzling, low-shedding agility superstar
30–60 lbsWeight
15–22 inHeight
12–15 yrsLifespan
HighEnergy
Hybrid / Designer · Hybrid · The world's smartest breeds combined — a dazzling, low-shedding agility superstar
Watch this video for a quick overview of the Bordoodle — see the breed in action before diving into the details below.
The Bordoodle is a cross between the Border Collie — widely considered the most intelligent dog breed — and the Poodle, the second most intelligent. This pairing creates a dog of extraordinary mental capability, combined with a low-shedding coat and athletic build. Bordoodles excel at virtually every dog sport and activity.
Bordoodles need both physical exercise and mental stimulation in abundance. Without sufficient mental engagement, they can develop obsessive behaviors (a Border Collie trait) or become destructive. In the right home — one with active owners, training goals, and plenty of enrichment — they are breathtaking dogs that seem almost to think like humans.
Real Bordoodles — browse photos showcasing their look, size, and personality.
📷 Photos via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY / CC BY-SA / CC0)
Bordoodles are known for being often inheriting the best traits of both parent breeds. They form deep bonds with their families and thrive on consistent human connection. As a high-energy hybrid, they are best matched with active owners who enjoy outdoor activities and can commit to regular exercise.
Training is generally a pleasure with Bordoodles — they are responsive, motivated, and pick up commands quickly. They are typically gentle and patient with children, making them a reliable family companion.
Bordoodles are high-energy dogs that need significant daily exercise to stay physically and mentally healthy. Without adequate activity they can become restless, vocal, or destructive. They are happiest with owners who genuinely enjoy an active lifestyle.
Bordoodles have a curly or wavy coat that grows continuously and does not shed the way most breeds do. Without regular grooming, the coat will mat and tangle — professional trims every 6–8 weeks are essential, along with daily or every-other-day brushing at home.
Bordoodles are highly responsive to training and genuinely enjoy learning. Their combination of intelligence and eagerness to please makes them a joy to work with — they pick up new commands quickly and retain them well.
Keep training sessions varied and engaging to prevent boredom. Bordoodles can handle advanced training — agility, nose work, therapy work, or competitive obedience are all excellent options for channeling their intelligence.
Bordoodles may benefit from hybrid vigor, which can reduce the incidence of some hereditary conditions found in the parent breeds. That said, they can still inherit health issues from either side. Choosing a reputable breeder who health-tests both parents — and scheduling regular veterinary check-ups — is the best protection.
A Bordoodle is a wonderful choice for families seeking a companion that blends the best qualities of both parent breeds. They tend to thrive with engaged owners who provide consistent exercise, training, and socialization. As hybrids, individual traits can vary — meeting the specific dog before adopting is always a smart move.
Bordoodles need consistent, well-portioned meals matched to their life stage. Overfeeding is one of the biggest health risks for any dog — use these guidelines and adjust based on your dog's activity level and body condition.
These are general guidelines for a large-breed dog. Always check the feeding instructions on your specific food brand, and adjust based on activity level and body condition score.
Look for dog foods where the first ingredient is a named protein — chicken, beef, salmon, or lamb. Large-breed formulas are calibrated for their metabolism and nutritional needs.
These common human foods can be toxic — even life-threatening — for dogs. Keep them safely out of reach at all times.
Always bring your Bordoodle's regular food when boarding. Switching food suddenly can cause digestive upset. Provide the facility your exact feeding schedule and portion sizes.
The upfront cost of a Bordoodle is just the beginning. Here's a realistic breakdown of what to expect — both to acquire one and to own one for their lifetime.
Beyond the purchase price, owning a Bordoodle costs between $150–$300 per month on average. Here's where the money goes:
Over a 8–12 year lifespan, a Bordoodle typically costs between $15,000–$28,000 total — depending on health, lifestyle, and the services you use.
Pet insurance is worth considering for any breed. Buying before your dog turns 1 gives the best rates and fewest pre-existing condition exclusions. Compare 2–3 providers before committing.
Because Bordoodles have such wonderful traits, they're a popular choice for intentional mixed breeding. Here are the most common — and most loved — Bordoodle crosses.
50% Border Collie, 50% Poodle. High intelligence, variable coat.
F1 × Poodle. Curlier coat, reduced shedding, still razor sharp mentally.
Border Collie × Miniature Poodle. 20–35 lbs — all the brains, smaller frame.
Inherits Border's merle gene — striking marbled coat pattern.
Bordoodles are full of surprises. Here are some of the most fascinating, funny, and heartwarming facts about this breed.