Borollie
The Borollie is a cross between the Border Collie and the Collie. Because each hybrid inherits a unique combination of traits from both parents, we recommend thoroughly researching both breeds before choosing a Borollie. Pay special attention to temperament, health issues, and care requirements, as your dog may express characteristics from either parent breed.
Border Collie
Border Collies are medium-sized, athletic dogs with a strong, agile build on a lean frame. Males typically stand between nineteen to twenty-two inches at the shoulder and weigh thirty to fifty-five pounds, while females are slightly smaller at eighteen to twenty-one inches tall and twenty-seven to forty-two pounds. They possess a muscular yet graceful body structure that reflects their herding heritage, with well-proportioned features designed for endurance and agility. Their body is slightly longer than tall, with a deep chest, straight strong back, and medium-length tail that reaches the hocks. The Border Collie's double coat can vary from smooth to rough in texture, with some dogs displaying feathering on the forelegs, chest, and underside. While black and white remains the most iconic color pattern, these dogs come in virtually every color combination imaginable, including red and white, blue merle, tri-color, sable, and brindle varieties. Their expressive, almond-shaped eyes are typically dark brown but may be blue or amber in merle-coated individuals. Distinctive features include their alert, intelligent expression and semi-erect or fully erect ears that tilt forward when attentive. Their heads are relatively broad with a distinct stop and a tapered muzzle of moderate length. Border Collies move with exceptional grace and fluidity, displaying their legendary agility and speed. Their athletic build and keen expression combine to create a dog that appears perpetually ready for action, embodying the breed's renowned work ethic and remarkable physical capabilities.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Border Collies are highly trainable and eager to please, responding best to positive reinforcement methods and consistent, patient guidance. Their intense focus and determination make them outstanding working dogs, but these same qualities require owners who can provide firm, confident leadership without harsh corrections. They need owners who understand their need for purpose and can channel their intelligence and energy into productive activities. When their needs are met, Border Collies make devoted, responsive companions who bring joy through their enthusiasm for life and remarkable abilities.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Neurological and immune system disorders also occur in the breed. Epilepsy typically manifests before six years of age and may require lifelong medication management. Trapped Neutrophil Syndrome affects the immune system, causing chronic infections and developmental delays in affected puppies. Border Collie Collapse is a breed-specific condition triggering episodes of disorientation and weakness during intense exercise. Additionally, some Border Collies carry the MDR1 gene mutation, making them sensitive to certain medications. Genetic testing is available for many of these conditions, and reputable breeders conduct health screenings to minimize risks. With proper care, regular veterinary visits, and awareness of breed-specific concerns, Border Collies typically enjoy active, healthy lives well into their senior years.
Collie
Collies are medium to large-sized dogs with an elegant, well-proportioned build that combines grace with strength. Males typically stand twenty-four to twenty-six inches at the shoulder and weigh sixty to seventy-five pounds, while females measure twenty-two to twenty-four inches tall and weigh fifty to sixty-five pounds. Their bodies are fairly square in proportion with expressive almond-shaped eyes, a long wedge-shaped muzzle, and a smooth elegant head. The ears are medium-sized and typically stand erect with the tips folding forward, creating an alert and intelligent expression. The breed comes in two coat varieties: the Rough Collie with a long, flowing double coat featuring a profuse ruff around the neck, and the Smooth Collie with a short, dense coat. Both varieties display the same colors, including sable and white, tri-color (black, white, and tan), blue merle, and white. The Rough Collie's abundant coat is somewhat harsh in texture with a soft, dense undercoat, particularly luxurious on the tail, hindquarters, and around the neck. Regular grooming is essential to maintain the coat's beauty and prevent matting. Collies possess a graceful, effortless gait that covers ground efficiently while appearing almost floating. Their long, tapering tail is carried low and curves slightly upward at the tip. The breed's refined features, combined with their alert expression and flowing movement, create an aristocratic appearance that has made them instantly recognizable. Their physical presence perfectly balances working capability with show ring elegance, embodying both the breed's pastoral heritage and their status as beloved family companions who captured hearts through their legendary representative, Lassie.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Collies are sensitive dogs who are highly attuned to their owner's emotions and household atmosphere. They can become stressed in chaotic environments and may develop nuisance barking if bored or under-stimulated. While they are energetic when outdoors and working, they are surprisingly calm indoors, content to relax with their families after adequate exercise. Early socialization is important to prevent shyness around strangers. Collies need moderate daily exercise and mental stimulation but are not as intensely driven as Border Collies, making them somewhat easier for families to manage while still maintaining their working heritage and intelligence.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Other health concerns include Dermatomyositis, an inflammatory disease affecting skin and muscles that typically appears before six months of age, causing hair loss, crusting, and muscle weakness. Hip dysplasia occurs less frequently in Collies than in many large breeds but remains a consideration. Gastric dilatation and volvulus, or bloat, is a life-threatening emergency that can affect deep-chested breeds. Some Collies may develop Grey Collie Syndrome, a blood disorder causing immune deficiencies. With appropriate screening from reputable breeders, regular veterinary care, awareness of medication sensitivities, and proper nutrition and exercise, most Collies live full, active lives as devoted family companions.
Important to Remember
Each hybrid dog is unique and may inherit any combination of traits from either parent breed. The information above represents the characteristics of the purebred parent breeds. Your Borollie may favor one parent over the other or display a blend of both. We strongly encourage you to read the complete breed profiles for both the Border Collie and Collie to fully understand the range of possible temperaments, health concerns, and care requirements.