The Dachshund Border Collie Mix, also known as Border Weenie, is a hybrid breed gaining popularity due to its adorable looks and charming persona.
This breed crosses the courageous, lively Dachshund and the intelligent and energetic Border Collie.
They bear a distinctive appearance with a blend of both parent breeds and exhibit unique characteristics.
BASIC TRAITS
Height
8-20 inches
Weight
13-25 lb
Lifespan
10-14 years
Group (of Breed)
Crossbreed
Best Suited For
active families with kids and other pets, experienced dog owners
Temperament
Intelligent, playful, clever, courageous, loyal
Origin
The dachshund collie mix combines the dachshund and Border collie breeds. Both breeds have distinct characteristics, and the mix results in a unique dog with a combination of these traits.
The Dachshund originated in Germany during the 16th century, where they were initially bred for hunting badgers.
They are affectionately called “wiener dogs” due to their elongated body shape.
Dachshunds are lively and brave, making them great watchdogs.
The Border collie, on the other hand, hails from the United Kingdom and Scotland. They were primarily used as herding dogs and are renowned for their high intelligence and work ethic.
Coat
Depending on their parents, the Dachshund Border collie mix can have different coat types and colors.
These can range from smooth, short coats to long coats with feathers. Some common colors include black, white, brown, and grey.
The Border Weenie is a moderate shedder with a double coat that requires regular grooming.
Brushing their coat once or twice weekly should help reduce shedding, and it also helps to distribute natural oils throughout their coat, leaving them shiny and healthy.
It’s also essential to clean their ears and teeth to prevent infections and tartar buildup.
Regular baths are necessary, especially after outdoor adventures, but frequent bathing could strip their coat of natural oils and cause skin irritation.
Temperament/Behavior
The dachshund collie mix is friendly, loyal, and energetic. They are also intelligent and make great family pets.
Their intelligence makes them easy to train, but their stubborn streak from their dachshund ancestry can sometimes make them challenging to handle.
Early socialization and training are crucial to help them grow into well-behaved dogs.
They thrive on attention and are happiest when part of an active family. The dachshund collie mix is also great with children, but it’s essential to supervise their interactions to avoid unintentional harm.
Exercise Requirements
The Border Weenie has high energy levels and requires plenty of exercise for at least 45 minutes daily.
They enjoy exploring and playing, so regular walks and outdoor adventures are necessary for their physical and mental well-being.
They are also skilled at obedience training, and their intelligence makes it easy to teach them tricks and commands.
Positive reinforcement is the most effective training method and helps strengthen the bond between you and your dog.
Food/Diet
The dachshund collie mix requires a well-balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs.
Their daily diet should consist of high-quality protein, healthy fats, and vitamins.
Establishing a feeding routine and avoiding overfeeding your dog is essential, as this can lead to obesity and health problems.
Also, ensure your dog can access plenty of clean drinking water to stay hydrated.
Common Health Problems
The dachshund collie mix is generally healthy, but like other breeds, they are prone to certain health conditions. These include:
- Intervertebral disc disease: Dachshunds are prone to back problems due to their elongated body shape. This condition can cause paralysis and require surgery to correct.
- Hip dysplasia: This genetic condition affects the hip joints, resulting in pain and mobility issues.
- Eye problems: The Border Collie is susceptible to eye-related conditions such as progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), cataracts, and other vision problems. These conditions can be passed on to their mix.
Regular visits to the vet can help detect these problems early and prevent severe health complications.
Conclusion
The dachshund collie mix, or Border Weenie, is a unique and wonderful breed with great traits.
They are loyal, energetic, and intelligent, making them easy to train and a joy to be around.
They can live healthy and happy lives for many years with proper care and attention. If you’re considering adding a furry companion to your family, the dachshund collie mix is an excellent choice.
