Border Beagle Dog Breed

As a mixed breed, the Border Beagle is not a member of any official breed group--but since its parent breeds can both have strong work ethics, the Border Collie-Beagle mix is usually very task-oriented, and would conceivably fit into the Working group of breeds. Though its true origin is unclear, this hybrid was likely developed during the "designer dog" craze in the U.S. in the late twentieth century. Border Beagles are best suited for active families willing to give their dogs plenty of TLC.

Some Border Beagle facts: these dogs are medium in size, averaging 19 inches at the shoulders in height and 30 pounds in weight, with either short- or medium-length, double-layered coats in various patchy colors. A few advantages and drawbacks of owning a Collie-Beagle mix:

The Border Collie mix with Beagle is an interesting one: combining a workaholic herding dog with a sensitive, stubborn scenthound makes for a unique combination. To be sure, though, the Beagle-Collie cross is enthusiastic, energetic, and incredibly sensitive.

No Beagle-Border Collie mix information would be complete without a mention of this hybrid's potential as both a herding and hunting dog. The Border Collie is prized worldwide for its abilities to work livestock; likewise, the Beagle, with its fantastic sense of smell, has gained notoriety for its tracking skills. It follows, then, that its Border Beagle offspring can potentially be good as either a herder or a hunter--or possibly even both. In any case, this mixed breed will be lively and full of energy, and will make a great companion to families of any size. The downside to owning this hybrid is that it will be sensitive and needy (as both its parent breeds are), and will require more attention and time than do many other dogs. If owners are willing to return the love and affection Border Beagles are so willing to give, though, these dogs will be incredible family additions.

Another aspect of a Border Beagle's daily life that will need consistent attention: exercise. While not super-strong, these dogs usually have incredible speed and stamina, and will need a good bit of outdoor activity, preferably in a large, fenced yard.

Intelligent, energetic, affectionate, task-oriented, and at times headstrong and stubborn, the Border Beagle temperament is one of activity and love. Border Collie-Beagle mix dog behavior will normally combine enthusiasm, stubbornness, and single-mindedness--and sometimes all those at once, particularly if the dog picks up a strong scent. But as with any hybrid, Border Collie-Beagle mix traits may tend towards one parent breed or the other. These dogs are usually pretty good with kids and other pets; if the dog exhibits a more Beagle-like personality, it will likely bond better with other dogs.

Training a Border Beagle can also be luck of the genetic draw. Border Collies are exceptionally intelligent and trainable--but Beagles, while smart enough, can be notoriously hard to train because of their hard-headedness. Regardless, owners will need to use firm, consistent, reward-based methods when teaching their Border Beagles tasks and commands.

These hybrids are usually very loyal and alert, which means they often have good watchdog skills. Your Border Beagle will normally sound a vocal alarm if it perceives a potential threat.

As a crossbreed, a Border Beagle's health is usually good because of hybrid vigor, in which a mixed breed inherits the healthiest traits of both its parents. Still, these dogs will need to be monitored for signs of health issues common among the Beagle and the Border Collie, including hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), and epilepsy.

Border Beagle life expectancy is 11-15 years.