German Shepherd Border Collie Mix
The Border Collie German Shepherd Mix, or Shollie, is a hybrid breed that combines the guardian instincts of the German Shepherd Dog with the herding drive of the Border Collie. They typically grow up to 25 inches in height, weigh around 70 pounds, and have a lifespan that extends into their teenage years. Shollies are highly intelligent and active dogs that require plenty of mental and physical stimulation to thrive.
From my time working with animal rescue organizations, I’ve noticed that their intelligence and adaptability make them suitable for various roles, whether as loyal family pets or diligent working dogs. Their sharp minds and high energy levels make them a popular choice for dog enthusiasts who are ready to invest time in training and activity.
German Shepherd Border Collie Mix dogs develop into affectionate, protective companions who are deeply loyal to their families but can be wary of unfamiliar people. These Collie and Shepherd Mix dogs are best suited for households with older children and require early socialization to ensure they are comfortable around new people.
Jump to Section
German Shepherd Border Collie Mix Quick Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Common Breed Names | German Shepherd Border Collie Mix, Shollie, Border Collie Shepherd |
| Size | Up to 29 inches in height |
| Weight | Up to 80 pounds |
| Lifespan | 13–15 years |
| Breed Type | Hybrid (Mixed Breed) |
| Best Suited For | Active families, working homes, experienced dog owners |
| Colors | Black and White, Black and Tan, Black |
| Temperament | Intelligent, Trainable, Smart, Energetic, and Affectionate |
| Other Names | Shollie, Border Collie German Shepherd Mix |
Where Did the German Shepherd Border Collie Mix Come From?
The German Shepherd Border Collie Mix is the result of breeding a purebred German Shepherd Dog with a purebred Border Collie. Since both parent breeds were originally developed for demanding work like herding livestock and providing protection, this mix is naturally intelligent and energetic.
The Border Collie has an extensive history rooted in Scotland, where the breed was developed for herding tasks. These dogs were bred for their sharp problem-solving skills and agility, making them some of the best herding dogs in the world. Although they’ve been around for centuries, the American Kennel Club (AKC) officially recognized the breed in 1995.
On the other hand, the German Shepherd Dog was bred in Europe to be a hardworking herding and guide dog. Built for endurance, they were developed to withstand cold and damp conditions while maintaining focus on their tasks. By 1908, the AKC recognized the breed, and over the years, German Shepherds have become widely known for their roles in law enforcement, military, and service work.
The combination of these two breeds results in the German Shepherd and Border Collie Mix, a dog that embodies intelligence, work ethic, and strong loyalty.
German Shepherd Border Collie Mix Appearance
Since hybrid breeds inherit traits from both parents, predicting exactly how a German Shepherd and Border Collie Mix will look can be challenging. Their coats may be short or medium-length, and their build could lean toward either of the parent breeds.
Some Shollies inherit the solid-colored coat and sturdy frame of the German Shepherd Dog, while others take after the Border Collie with a sleeker build and a wider variety of coat colors. Their fur may come in shades like black, blue merle, brindle, sable, or the classic black and white pattern.
Height and Weight
The German Shepherd and Border Collie Mix can vary in size, falling somewhere between a medium and large dog. If they inherit more traits from their German Shepherd Dog parent, they might weigh up to 90 pounds. If they take after the Border Collie, they may be smaller, closer to 40 pounds. Generally, most dogs in this mix mature at around 22–24 inches at the shoulder.
Coat Care
A Border Collie German Shepherd Mix may have a dense, medium-length double coat similar to a German Shepherd Dog or a slightly softer, shorter coat like a Border Collie. By the time a puppy is around eight weeks old, a breeder will usually have a good idea of what their coat type will be.
Regardless of coat length, Shollies require regular grooming. Weekly brushing helps keep their fur manageable, but during shedding season, more frequent grooming may be necessary. These dogs are heavy shedders, meaning they are not ideal for allergy sufferers and will require a home that can handle some fur and dander.
German Shepherd Collie Mix Temperament
As with any mixed breed, predicting the temperament, health, and appearance of a German Shepherd and Border Collie Mix is not always straightforward. Since this hybrid comes from two highly intelligent and energetic working breeds, understanding its potential personality is crucial before bringing one into your home.
If you’re considering a German Shepherd and Border Collie Mix, you’ll want to examine not just the temperament of the pup but also the general personality traits of the parent breeds.
Are German Shepherd Mixes Aggressive?
German Shepherd Dogs are frequently used in law enforcement and military roles, which has given them an unfair reputation for aggression. However, this assumption is misleading. These dogs are highly trained professionals, responding to commands rather than acting out of uncontrolled aggression.
Border Collie German Shepherd Mix dogs inherit the inquisitive nature of the Border Collie. They dislike idleness and require mental and physical stimulation to prevent destructive behaviors. If left alone without an outlet for their energy, they can become restless and develop bad habits such as chewing furniture or excessive barking.
Given these tendencies, German Shepherd and Border Collie Mix dogs are best suited for working roles or highly active households. If they are not engaged in structured training or vigorous exercise, their intelligence and energy may lead to behavioral challenges. Proper socialization and training are essential for ensuring they grow into well-behaved, friendly companions.
Although hybrid puppies may inherit an equal mix of their parents’ traits, some may take after one parent more than the other. Being prepared for either possibility is essential when considering this breed.
German Shepherd and Border Collie Health
Like all breeds, the German Shepherd Border Collie Mix can develop inherited or age-related health conditions, including hip and elbow dysplasia, eye diseases, allergies, and skin issues. Since both German Shepherd Dogs and Border Collies are prone to hip dysplasia, this hybrid is at an increased risk of developing the condition.
One of the best ways to mitigate the risk of genetic health issues is to obtain your puppy from a responsible breeder who conducts genetic testing on their breeding stock. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs for hereditary conditions and ensure that both parents have strong hip scores before breeding.
Preventative care, including maintaining a healthy weight and providing joint-supporting supplements, can also help reduce the impact of hip dysplasia later in life.
Is a Border Collie German Shepherd Mix a Good Family Dog?
Shollies can make fantastic companions for active families who are dedicated to positive reinforcement training. However, potential owners should consider a few key factors before bringing a German Shepherd and Border Collie Mix into their home.
For starters, these dogs are high-energy working breeds that require significant exercise and mental engagement. They do not thrive in small apartments or homes without access to outdoor space. Without sufficient activity, they may become frustrated and develop destructive tendencies.
Since this hybrid has a predisposition for hip dysplasia, maintaining a healthy weight is essential. Genetic testing of the parent stock can help determine if a particular puppy may be at greater risk for this condition.
Additionally, without structured training and interactive activities, they may resort to chewing furniture, digging, or other mischievous behavior.
Border Collie German Shepherd Mix Puppies
There’s a lot to consider when deciding whether a Shollie puppy is the right fit for your family. That said, with proper care, they can grow into loyal and intelligent companions.
The natural intelligence of Border Collie German Shepherd Mix dogs makes them highly trainable. With early socialization, they can learn to be well-mannered around people and other pets. Training also helps to moderate their protective instincts, ensuring they do not become overly territorial or wary of strangers.
If you’re getting a Shollie puppy, always meet both parents and ensure they have passed health screenings. A responsible breeder will provide documentation of genetic tests and temperament assessments. Proper training, socialization, and care from an early age will help ensure that your Border Collie German Shepherd Mix grows into a wonderful lifelong companion.
Other German Shepherd Mix Breeds
If you’re interested in exploring other hybrid breeds, check out our guides on German Shepherd Mixes.
German Shepherd Collie Mix Pics
Read related posts about
