
Borderdoodle
Male: 15-25 kg, Female: 14-22 kg
38-56 cm at the shoulder
12-15 years
United States and Australia
About the Borderdoodle
The Borderdoodle is a contemporary designer crossbreed resulting from the mating of a Border Collie and a Poodle (usually Standard or Miniature). By combining the two most intelligent dog breeds in the world, this cross aims to produce a companion that is both exceptionally bright and often more suitable for allergy sufferers due to the Poodle's low-shedding coat. They are athletic, agile, and possess a strong desire to engage with their human family, making them excellent candidates for advanced training and dog sports. Physically, the Borderdoodle is a sturdy, well-proportioned dog that retains the athletic grace of the Border Collie while often adopting the facial features and coat texture of the Poodle. They are not merely 'smart pets' but require a dedicated owner who can provide an 'employment' of sorts, whether through agility, scent work, or complex trick training. Without proper mental outlets, their high intelligence can lead to creative but unwanted behaviors.
Breed Standard
Key characteristics from the breed standard
As a designer crossbreed, the Borderdoodle is not currently recognized for conformation showing by the ANKC. However, in performance and utility settings, they display a balanced, athletic structure with a smooth, reaching gait that covers ground efficiently. Their coat should be dense and healthy, and their expression should be one of intense, focused intelligence.
Bred For
Intelligence, companionship, and low-shedding traits for active families
Temperament
Highly intelligent, energetic, loyal, affectionate, and alert
Health Conditions Reported in the Breed
Hip and , Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA), (), , and
Grooming Needs
Moderate to High; requires regular brushing 2-3 times per week and professional clipping every 6-8 weeks to prevent matting
Living Suitability
Suited to homes with a secure yard or acreage; not recommended for small apartments unless the owner is extremely active and provides multiple daily outdoor excursions.
Good with Kids
Excellent with children, though their herding instincts may cause them to 'circle' or gently nip at the heels of very small children if not corrected.
Good with Other Pets
Generally social and good with other dogs; prey drive can be managed with early socialization for homes with cats or smaller pets.
Trainability
Exceptionally high; they learn new commands very quickly and thrive on positive reinforcement and complex tasks.
Coat & Colours
Variable; can range from wavy and fleece-like to tight curls. Black and white, chocolate and white, tri-color, blue merle, and solid gold or black
Exercise needs vary by age, fitness, health, weather and individual temperament. Consult your veterinarian for an exercise plan appropriate for your dog.
Things to Consider
Every breed has its quirks — here's what to know
Borderdoodles are predisposed to several challenges that stem from their high intelligence and heritage. Because they are part Border Collie, they can inherit a strong herding instinct; this might result in 'nipping' at heels or chasing moving objects like cars or bikes. They are also prone to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods without mental stimulation, as they form very strong bonds with their owners. Grooming is a significant commitment; their hair can mat easily, especially where the harness or collar rubs, so daily checks are advised. Like their parent breeds, they are more likely to experience hip dysplasia and Collie Eye Anomaly—it is important to ensure parents have been DNA tested and hip-scored. Some may also have sensitive digestive systems and can develop skin irritations if fed low-quality commercial fillers, often thriving on a clean, raw diet. While they are low-shedding, this does not mean they are maintenance-free; professional clipping is a recurring cost to consider. They are also prone to ear infections due to the Poodle's tendency to grow hair inside the ear canal, which traps moisture.
Feeding Guide for Your Borderdoodle
Healthy Weight
15-22 kg
Daily Feeding Amount (general starting estimate)
300-660g
For an adult Borderdoodle, a fresh/raw diet should be calculated at approximately 2-3% of their ideal body weight daily. For a medium-sized dog weighing 20kg, this equates to 400-600g of food per day, split between two meals. Active working dogs or those participating in agility may require slightly higher caloric intake.
Feeding quantities are general starting estimates only. Individual needs vary with body condition, weight trends, age, health and activity. Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition — consult a veterinarian for individualised dietary guidance.
Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition. Seek veterinary or qualified canine nutrition guidance for individualised dietary advice. Raw feeding, specific proteins or fresh foods should not be presented as preventing, treating or managing breed health conditions without veterinary diagnosis and supervision.
Majestik's Recommended Feeding Approach
Breed Diet Notes
High-protein, nutrient-dense fresh or raw food diet to support cognitive function and high energy output
A balanced raw diet for a Borderdoodle should focus on lean, high-quality proteins to maintain muscle mass without excess weight. We recommend Majestik’s Premium Beef or Kangaroo blends for lean energy, supplemented with Duck or Lamb for healthy fats. Adding fresh leafy greens and blueberries provides antioxidants crucial for cognitive health in this highly intelligent breed.
These are general breed-level notes only. The appropriate food and serving amount depend on the individual dog's age, health, body condition, activity and tolerance.
Majestik Recommendation
Majestik BARF meals follow our practical 70/10/10/10 approach: approximately 70% quality meat and protein ingredients, 10% edible bone, 10% vegetables and 10% offal. This gives customers a convenient fresh-food option without needing to source and portion every ingredient themselves.
Our Beef, Lamb and Roo BARF meals provide convenient fresh-food options, with suitable proteins chosen or rotated according to the individual dog.
Suitable for different needs
- Healthy adult: Majestik adult Beef, Lamb or Roo BARF meal.
- Puppy: Majestik Premium Puppy.
- Senior: Majestik Senior Blend.
- Working or highly active dog: Suitable Majestik adult meal with quantity adjusted to workload and body condition.
- Protein trial: One Majestik protein at a time.
Recommended Majestik BARF Meals
This is a practical starting recommendation for healthy dogs. Individual needs vary with age, health, body condition and activity.
Borderdoodle Feeding Calculator
Personalised raw and cooked feeding recommendations based on your dog's profile
Ideal — Ribs palpable without excess fat. Visible waist. Abdominal tuck present.
Have a question about your Borderdoodle? Dog Health AI
Why Majestik?
Fresh, raw pet food made with integrity in South Australia
Australian Made
Made in Two Wells, South Australia
Freshly Prepared
Real meat, organs, bone & wholefood ingredients
No Fillers
No cheap fillers or artificial preservatives
Family Owned
Locally owned and operated
Local Delivery
Delivery across Adelaide & selected areas
Secure Checkout
Secure payment via Shopify checkout
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Breed Records & Facts
Average Litter Size
5-8 puppies
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Other Medium Breeds
References & Sources
Breed information verified against recognised breed authorities and veterinary evidence.


