The Border Collie Lab mix, commonly known as the Borador, is a hybrid that combines the intelligence and herding instincts of the Border Collie with the friendly and eager-to-please nature of the Labrador Retriever. This mix is known for being highly trainable, affectionate, and full of energy, making it a fantastic family companion or working dog.
If you’re looking for a smart, playful, and loyal dog, the Borador might be the perfect fit. However, they require plenty of exercise, training, and mental stimulation to stay happy and well-behaved.
Breed Overview
| Trait | Details |
| Breed Purpose | Working dog, companion dog |
| Size | Medium to large |
| Height | 18 to 24 inches (46 to 61 cm) |
| Weight | 40 to 70 pounds (18 to 32 kg) |
| Lifespan | 12-15 years |
| Coat Type | Short to medium-length, dense, water-resistant |
| Colors | Black, chocolate, yellow, white, brown, or a mix |
| Temperament | Friendly, intelligent, energetic, affectionate |
| Energy Level | High |
| Exercise Needs | At least 60-90 minutes daily |
| Shedding | Moderate (seasonal shedding) |
| Trainability | Highly trainable but needs mental stimulation |
| Average Price | $500 to $1,500 |
| Best For | Active families, working roles, experienced owners |
Where Did the Border Collie Lab Mix Come From?
The Borador is a hybrid that brings together two highly intelligent and active breeds, making them excellent working dogs, agility competitors, or adventure companions.
- The Labrador Retriever originated in Newfoundland, Canada, as a retrieving and fishing dog. Labs are friendly, intelligent, and eager to please, making them one of the most popular family dogs worldwide.
- The Border Collie was developed in Scotland and England as a herding dog. Known for their high energy, intelligence, and agility, they are widely regarded as the smartest dog breed.
By mixing these breeds, the Borador inherits a balance of intelligence, energy, and affection, making them an excellent companion for active families or individuals.
Meet the Parent Breeds
Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers are friendly, affectionate, and highly trainable. They excel in obedience, retrieving, and therapy work, making them great for families, service roles, and outdoor enthusiasts.
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
Boradors typically inherit traits from both parents, often having:
- A lean, athletic build with long legs
- A short to medium-length coat that is dense and water-resistant
- Floppy ears like a Lab or semi-erect ears like a Border Collie
- A long, feathered tail that may curl slightly
- Expressive eyes, often brown or hazel
Common coat colors include black, chocolate, yellow, white, brown, or a combination of these shades.
Temperament and Personality
The Border Collie Lab mix is friendly, energetic, and highly intelligent. Some key personality traits include:
- Loyal and affectionate with family members
- Playful and always ready for adventure
- Smart but needs regular training and stimulation
- Social and good with people and other dogs
Because of their strong attachment to their owners, Boradors may develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods.
Are Boradors Good with Kids and Other Pets?
Yes! Boradors are excellent family dogs. They are gentle and playful with children, but their high energy levels require supervision around small kids to prevent accidental rough play.
They usually get along well with other dogs, but their herding instincts from the Border Collie side may make them try to “herd” small children or pets. Early training and socialization help manage this behavior.
Training and Exercise Needs
The Border Collie Lab mix is one of the most trainable hybrids, but they require consistent training and mental challenges to prevent boredom.
They need at least 60-90 minutes of daily exercise, including:
- Long walks, jogging, or hiking
- Fetch, frisbee, or agility training
- Mental stimulation with puzzle toys and obedience training
Without enough activity, they may develop destructive behaviors like excessive barking, chewing, or digging.
Grooming and Shedding
Boradors have moderate grooming needs due to their short to medium-length double coat. Their shedding increases during seasonal changes, so regular brushing is essential.
Grooming tasks include:
- Brushing 2-3 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
Boradors 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)
- Obesity (Labs love food, so portion control is important)
- 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 Lab Mix?
Boradors 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 Lab Mix Cost?
The price for a Borador 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 Lab Mix Right for You?
The Borador is a loving, intelligent, and active 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’re curious about other energetic and intelligent mixes, you might also like the Border Collie German Shepherd Mix.