The Border Collie German Shepherd mix, often called the Shepherd Collie, is a hybrid that blends the intelligence and trainability of the German Shepherd with the agility and work ethic of the Border Collie. This mix is known for being highly intelligent, energetic, and loyal, making it an excellent choice for active families and working roles.
If you’re looking for a smart, affectionate, and athletic companion, the Shepherd Collie might be the perfect fit. However, they require consistent training, daily exercise, and mental stimulation to prevent boredom.
Breed Overview
| Trait | Details |
| Breed Purpose | Working dog, Companion dog |
| Size | Medium to large |
| Height | 20 to 27 inches (51 to 69 cm) |
| Weight | 45 to 80 pounds (20 to 36 kg) |
| Lifespan | 10-15 years |
| Coat Type | Medium-length, dense, double coat |
| Colors | Black, tan, sable, brown, white, or a mix |
| Temperament | Intelligent, energetic, loyal, affectionate |
| Energy Level | High |
| Exercise Needs | At least 60-90 minutes daily |
| Shedding | Moderate to heavy (seasonal shedding) |
| Trainability | Highly trainable but requires mental stimulation |
| Average Price | $500 to $1,500 |
| Best For | Active families, working roles, experienced owners |
Where Did the Border Collie German Shepherd Mix Come From?
The Shepherd Collie is a relatively new hybrid but comes from two of the world’s most intelligent and hardworking breeds.
- The German Shepherd originated in Germany and was bred for herding, police work, and protection. They are highly trainable, obedient, and loyal, making them one of the most popular working breeds.
- The Border Collie was developed in Scotland and England as a herding dog. Known for their high energy, intelligence, and agility, they are often regarded as the smartest dog breed.
By combining these breeds, the Shepherd Collie inherits a strong work ethic, high intelligence, and a need for activity, making them ideal for working roles, dog sports, and active homes.
Meet the Parent Breeds
German Shepherd
The German Shepherd is a loyal, protective, and intelligent dog widely used in military, police, and search-and-rescue work. They are eager to learn and form strong bonds with their families but require early training and socialization to prevent over-protectiveness.
Border Collie
Border Collies are fast, agile, and highly intelligent herding dogs that excel in obedience, agility, and problem-solving tasks. They have a strong desire to work and need plenty of mental and physical stimulation to stay happy.
Appearance
Shepherd Collies typically inherit traits from both parents, often having:
- A lean, muscular build with long legs
- A medium-length double coat that can be straight or slightly wavy
- Floppy or semi-erect ears, depending on genetics
- A long, feathered tail that may curl slightly
- Expressive eyes, often brown or blue
Common coat colors include black, tan, sable, brown, white, or a combination of these shades.
Temperament and Personality
The Border Collie German Shepherd mix is a highly intelligent, energetic, and affectionate dog. They love to work, learn, and bond with their owners.
Some key personality traits include:
- Highly trainable and eager to please
- Extremely energetic and playful
- Loyal and protective but not overly aggressive
- Strong herding instincts, which may lead to “herding” people or other pets
Because of their strong attachment to their owners, Shepherd Collies may develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods.
Are Shepherd Collies Good with Kids and Other Pets?
Yes! Shepherd Collies are excellent family dogs and do well with children. However, their herding instincts may cause them to nip or try to “herd” small kids. Early training helps manage this behavior.
They generally get along well with other dogs and even cats, especially if socialized early. However, their strong prey drive may make them chase smaller animals.
Training and Exercise Needs
The Shepherd Collie is one of the most trainable mixed breeds, but they require consistent training and mental challenges to prevent boredom.
They need at least 60-90 minutes of daily exercise, including:
- Long walks, running, or hiking
- Obedience training and trick learning
- Agility training, herding games, or frisbee
- Interactive puzzle toys for mental stimulation
Without enough activity, they may develop destructive behaviors like excessive barking, chewing, or digging.
Grooming and Shedding
Shepherd Collies have moderate to high grooming needs due to their thick double coat. Their shedding increases during seasonal changes, so regular brushing is essential.
Grooming tasks include:
- Brushing 3-4 times per week (daily during shedding seasons)
- Bathing every 6-8 weeks
- Trimming nails every few weeks
- Cleaning ears regularly to prevent infections
- Dental care to maintain oral health
Common Health Issues
Border Collie German Shepherd mixes are generally healthy dogs, but they may inherit certain genetic health conditions, including:
- Elbow and hip dysplasia (common in large breeds)
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) (an eye condition leading to vision loss)
- Epilepsy (more common in Border Collies)
- Degenerative Myelopathy (a neurological disorder affecting mobility)
- Allergies and skin problems
Regular vet checkups, a nutritious diet, and an active lifestyle help prevent many of these issues.
How Much Should You Feed a Border Collie German Shepherd Mix?
Shepherd Collies require a high-protein, well-balanced diet to support their energy levels. They typically need 2.5 to 4 cups of high-quality dry kibble per day, split into two meals.
Since they are high-energy dogs, they do best on a diet rich in protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins.
How Much Does a Border Collie German Shepherd Mix Cost?
The price for a Shepherd Collie puppy ranges from $500 to $1,500, depending on the breeder, location, and lineage. Adoption from a rescue or shelter is often a more affordable option.
Is a Border Collie German Shepherd Mix Right for You?
The Shepherd Collie is a loving, intelligent, and high-energy companion that thrives in homes where they receive plenty of exercise, training, and mental challenges. They are best suited for active families, dog sports enthusiasts, and experienced owners.
If you want a loyal, smart, and playful dog that enjoys both training and outdoor adventures, the Border Collie German Shepherd mix is perfection.
Curious about other Border Collie mixes? You might also love the Border Collie Lab Mix or the Border Collie Australian Shepherd Mix—both are equally energetic and full of personality!