All about Bordern Plotthound dog breed

All You Need to Know About the "Bordern Plotthound" Breed (parent breeds: "Border Collie" × "Plott Hound")

Bordern Plotthound Weight: Average Size & Healthy Weight for Bordern PlotthoundThe Bordern Plotthound weight typically ranges from 45 to 70 pounds for a healthy adult. Males generally fall on the higher end of this scale, often between 55 and 70 pounds, while females usually weigh between 45 and 60 pounds. This average size is a good indicator for potential adopters or buyers seeking information on the breed's typical stature.

Bordern Plotthound Height: What to Expect

The Bordern Plotthound colors are diverse, reflecting its parent breeds, the Border Collie and Plott Hound. While not recognized by the AKC as a purebred, acceptable colors for this designer breed generally align with those found in its lineage.

The Bordern Plotthound personality is a captivating blend of intelligence, energy, and loyalty. Expect a highly intelligent and easily trainable companion, often inheriting the Border Collie's drive to learn and please, combined with the Plott Hound's courageous and independent spirit. They are typically very friendly and sociable, often greeting strangers with enthusiasm once properly introduced, though early socialization is key. This breed forms strong bonds, displaying immense loyalty to their family. They are generally good with children, especially when raised together and supervised, though their energy levels might be overwhelming for very young children. With other pets, proper introductions and socialization are crucial; their hound ancestry can sometimes lead to a strong prey drive, but many Bordern Plotthounds coexist peacefully with cats and other dogs. Due to their high energy and need for mental stimulation, they are not adaptable to apartment living. A home with a secure yard and an active family who can provide plenty of exercise, training, and enrichment is essential for a happy and well-adjusted Bordern Plotthound. Owners should be prepared for a dedicated and engaging companion who thrives on activity and purpose.

The Bordern Plotthound temperament is a fascinating blend of its parent breeds, resulting in a companion dog behavior that is generally intelligent, loyal, and energetic. These dogs are typically friendly and sociable, often eager to meet new people and happy to be the center of attention, making them great for families who can provide consistent interaction. Their personality traits include a strong desire to please and a deep devotion to their family, showing immense loyalty.While generally adaptable, their high energy levels and need for mental stimulation mean they are not ideally suited for apartment living; they thrive in homes with a yard and active owners. With children, a well-socialized Bordern Plotthound can be a wonderful, playful companion, though supervision is always recommended due to their size and enthusiasm. They can usually coexist well with other pets, especially if introduced early, but their Plott Hound heritage might bring a natural prey drive, so careful introductions and training are key with smaller animals.Bordern Plotthounds are generally intelligent and eager to learn, but some can exhibit a tendency toward stubbornness, especially if they don't see the point of a command. Consistent, positive reinforcement training is essential. They are not typically overly sensitive but do respond best to gentle guidance rather than harsh corrections. Overall, a Bordern Plotthound is a loving, active, and engaging dog perfect for an active family looking for a devoted and smart canine partner.

Bordern Plotthound Care: Daily Maintenance & Health TipsThe Bordern Plotthound, a cross between the Border Collie and Plott Hound, requires a balanced approach to care. Grooming needs are moderate; expect regular brushing (2-3 times weekly) to manage shedding from its double coat and prevent matting. Occasional professional grooming may be beneficial. Despite the Plott Hound lineage, the Bordern Plotthound is not a low-energy dog breed. They require significant daily exercise – aim for at least 60-90 minutes of vigorous activity, including walks, runs, and stimulating play, to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors. Dietary considerations involve a high-quality commercial dog food appropriate for their age, size, and activity level. Monitor calorie intake closely as they can be prone to weight gain. Wrinkle and ear cleaning are essential. Check and clean ears weekly to prevent infections, especially if they have the longer, floppier Plott Hound ears. While not typically a brachycephalic breed, some individuals might exhibit flatter muzzles from the Plott Hound side; if so, climate sensitivity to heat will be a concern. Avoid strenuous exercise during hot weather and ensure access to shade and water. Common health concerns include skin issues like allergies, which can manifest as itching or hot spots. Regular dental care, including brushing and professional cleanings, is crucial for preventing periodontal disease. Weight management is a lifelong commitment to prevent obesity-related health problems. How to care for a Bordern Plotthound involves consistent training and socialization from an early age due to their intelligence and potential for a strong prey drive. Providing mental stimulation through puzzle toys and training sessions is equally as important as physical exercise.

The Bordern Plotthound activity level is generally moderate to high, a unique blend inheriting traits from both parent breeds. They are not brachycephalic, as neither the Border Collie nor the Plott Hound are brachycephalic breeds, so they do not face the exercise limitations associated with short-nosed dogs.

The Bordern Plotthound rates a 6.5 on the "Size" scale. This breed is decidedly medium-sized, inheriting a generally sturdy and athletic build from both parent breeds. They are not delicate and certainly not petite; you can expect a dog with good bone and muscle, giving them a substantial feel without being cumbersome. Average height would likely fall in the 18-24 inch range at the shoulder, with weights typically between 40-70 pounds, varying by individual and sex.While they aren't massive, their active nature and need for space mean they aren't ideal for apartment living where space constraints are significant. They would likely do fine in a smaller home with a fenced yard, but would truly thrive in households with more room, whether that's a larger home or a property with ample outdoor space for them to roam and exercise. Travel in a car is generally manageable, but they will take up a good portion of a back seat or a large crate. They are too large for carry-on options on flights and would require cargo travel, which can be stressful. Therefore, they are not a "small dog" by any definition and need owners who understand and can accommodate their moderate physical footprint.

I would rate the grooming requirements of a Bordern Plotthound at a 6 out of 10.This rating places them in the moderately high-maintenance category. The Border Collie parent contributes a dense double coat that is known for shedding, especially seasonally, and can be prone to matting if not brushed regularly. The Plott Hound, while having a shorter, coarser coat, still sheds and its scent hound heritage can sometimes mean oilier skin or a more noticeable "doggy" odor, necessitating more frequent bathing for some owners. While they likely won't have extensive skin folds requiring daily cleaning, the large, droopy ears inherited from the Plott Hound will necessitate consistent ear cleaning to prevent infections due to moisture and wax buildup. Nail trimming will be standard, as with any dog, but their active nature might naturally wear them down somewhat. Overall, the Bordern Plotthound will require consistent brushing several times a week, regular ear care, and routine bathing to keep their coat healthy and their skin free from issues, making them more demanding than a short-haired, low-shedding breed but not as intensive as a Poodle or an Afghan Hound.

The Bordern Plotthound rates a 9 for exercise requirements.This breed inherits a formidable energy combination from its parent breeds. The Border Collie contributes an intense drive for activity, intelligence, and a need for a job, while the Plott Hound adds remarkable stamina, a strong prey drive, and a desire to be out and about. Daily activity recommendations would lean heavily towards structured exercise, far beyond simple walks. These dogs possess high energy levels and excellent tolerance for sustained movement, making them ideal for activities like long runs, hiking, extensive fetch sessions, and dog sports such as agility, flyball, or obedience trials. Their respiratory systems are generally robust, lacking the limitations of brachycephalic breeds, allowing them to engage in prolonged physical exertion without concern. A Bordern Plotthound thrives with a structured routine that incorporates both physical challenges and mental stimulation. Without sufficient outlets for their energy and intellect, they are highly prone to developing destructive behaviors, anxiety, and general unhappiness. They are not a breed that thrives with minimal activity; rather, they require consistent, rigorous engagement to remain healthy, well-adjusted, and mentally stimulated.

I'd rate the Bordern Plotthound's "Watchdog Ability" at a 7 out of 10.This rating stems from a combination of its parent breeds' traits. The Border Collie contributes significant alertness and a keen sense of its surroundings. They are naturally observant and will often notice unusual activity or sounds quickly. The Plott Hound, while primarily a hunting dog, possesses a strong, booming bark and a courageous, protective nature when it comes to its family. This means the Bordern Plotthound is likely to be highly alert to unfamiliar sounds or people, and will almost certainly vocalize its concerns with a powerful bark. While they may not be as inherently suspicious or overtly aggressive towards strangers as some dedicated guard breeds, their territorial instincts will be present, and they will certainly make their presence known. They are more than a passive companion; their early warnings would be meaningful and difficult to ignore in a home environment, effectively deterring many potential intruders with their vocalizations and imposing presence, even if their primary instinct isn't to physically confront.

I'd rate the "Good with Other Dogs" trait of the Bordern Plotthound a 7 out of 10.The Bordern Plotthound inherits a blend of traits that generally lead to good, but not always effortlessly perfect, canine social skills. The Border Collie side contributes to a highly intelligent and often sensitive dog that, with proper socialization, is typically tolerant and even playful with other dogs. They tend to understand social cues well and are generally not looking for conflict. However, their herding instincts can sometimes manifest as a tendency to "herd" other dogs, which some canine companions might find annoying, especially those with lower energy or different play styles. The Plott Hound influence brings a more gregarious and often boisterous personality. Plotts are typically pack animals and enjoy the company of other dogs, often thriving in multi-dog households. They can be very playful and have a high energy level, which can be a great match for equally energetic dogs but might overwhelm more reserved or smaller companions.When these two are combined, you often get a dog that genuinely enjoys canine company and is usually amenable to living with other dogs. They are typically not prone to unprovoked aggression, and their intelligence from the Border Collie makes them highly trainable to coexist peacefully. However, their strong prey drive (from both sides, though more pronounced in the Plott) and potential herding tendencies mean that careful introductions are still important, particularly with smaller or more delicate dogs. They might require some guidance and training to ensure their enthusiastic play doesn't become overbearing. They thrive in canine company, especially with dogs that can match their energy and play drive, but they do best with early and consistent socialization to ensure they learn appropriate dog-dog etiquette and to mitigate any potential for dominance, which can sometimes emerge without proper guidance. With a good foundation, they are excellent companions in a multi-dog household, adapting well once the initial social hierarchy is established.

I would rate the Energetic trait of the Bordern Plotthound as an 8 out of 10.This rating reflects the strong influence of both parent breeds. Border Collies are renowned for their exceptionally high energy, intense drive, and insatiable need for mental and physical stimulation, excelling in demanding athletic activities. Plott Hounds, while less frantic than Border Collies, are also very active, possessing incredible stamina and a love for long outdoor excursions, particularly scent work. The combination of these traits would almost certainly result in a dog with a high typical activity level, impressive endurance, and a marked playfulness. They would have a very strong need for physical stimulation and would be highly capable of participating in a wide range of outdoor and athletic activities such as hiking, running, agility, or competitive obedience. This breed would be naturally active, much more so than laid-back companion dogs, and would likely become destructive or anxious if their energy needs are not met.The crucial factor, however, is your mention of "brachycephalic anatomy" in the prompt. If a Bordern Plotthound were to inherit a significantly brachycephalic muzzle (shortened snout) from one of its ancestors or a specific breeding choice, this would absolutely affect its stamina and exercise tolerance. Brachycephalic dogs are prone to breathing difficulties due to their constricted airways. While their desire and mental drive to be active might be high, their physical capacity would be compromised. They would overheat more easily, struggle with sustained strenuous exercise, and potentially be at risk for respiratory distress during prolonged activity. Therefore, while their *innate drive and potential* might be a 9 or even 10 based purely on parentage, the brachycephalic anatomy would functionally reduce their *ability* to express that energy without health risks, bringing the practical energetic rating down to an 8, acknowledging their inherent vigor while also considering a potential physical limitation.

I would rate the training requirements of the Bordern Plotthound at a 7.This hybrid breed inherits a complex mix of traits from its parent breeds, making for a challenging yet rewarding training experience. The Border Collie side brings exceptional intelligence, a strong work ethic, and a high desire to please, all of which contribute to a dog that can learn commands quickly and enjoys structured activities. However, this same intelligence can also lead to boredom and the development of undesirable behaviors if not consistently engaged. The Plott Hound influence introduces a significant layer of stubbornness, a strong prey drive, and a more independent nature. They can be less motivated by pleasing their owner and more by following their nose or their own inclinations.Therefore, while the Bordern Plotthound is undoubtedly intelligent and capable of learning a great deal, their training requires a high degree of consistency, patience, and creative problem-solving from the handler. Their attention span can be good when engaged, but the strong scent drive of the Plott Hound can easily override their focus on commands, especially in stimulating environments. Positive reinforcement is highly effective, as both parent breeds respond well to reward-based training, but it needs to be paired with firm, clear boundaries and a confident leader. They are not particularly beginner-friendly; their independent streak and potential for stubbornness can be overwhelming for first-time dog owners. Experienced handling is recommended, as is a commitment to a structured routine and ongoing mental and physical stimulation to prevent boredom and harness their intelligence for good. Without proper training and socialization, they can become unruly and difficult to manage, making early and consistent intervention crucial.

The Bordern Plotthound rates an 8 out of 10 for playfulness. This breed inherits a significant drive and energy from both parent breeds. The Border Collie contributes a high level of intelligence, a strong desire to work and play, and a keen responsiveness to training and interaction. This translates into a dog that loves mental challenges and is highly engaged in games like fetch, agility, and puzzle toys. From the Plott Hound, the Bordern Plotthound gains a robust athleticism and an enthusiastic, often vocal, approach to life. While not as relentlessly driven as a pure Border Collie, they still possess a strong desire for activity and companionship, often initiating playtime with their humans. They are generally spirited and thrive on interaction, rather than being laid-back, and will often seek attention through playful antics. Their enthusiasm for toys and outdoor adventures is quite high, making them a very fun-loving and engaging companion for an active individual or family.

I'd rate the "Affectionate" trait of the Bordern Plotthound a solid 8 out of 10. This hybrid is likely to be a highly affectionate and people-oriented companion. Both parent breeds contribute to this, with the Border Collie's intense loyalty and desire to be "with" their person, often following them from room to room, and the Plott Hound's generally friendly and devoted nature, enjoying companionship. You can expect a Bordern Plotthound to thrive on human interaction, actively seeking attention and physical closeness. While they might not always be the most overt "lap dog" given their potential size and energy, they will undoubtedly want to be near their family, offering deep loyalty and sensitivity to your moods. They will appreciate cuddling sessions and are unlikely to be content with prolonged solitude, preferring to be an integral part of family life.

I'd rate the "Good with Other Pets" trait of the Bordern Plotthound a 7 out of 10.The Bordern Plotthound inherits a complex blend of traits from its parent breeds. The Border Collie side contributes a high intelligence and trainability, which, with proper early socialization and consistent training, can lead to a dog that understands boundaries and is generally respectful of other animals. However, the Border Collie's strong herding instinct can sometimes manifest as nipping or attempts to "herd" smaller, faster-moving pets like cats, which isn't always appreciated. The Plott Hound influence, on the other hand, introduces a moderate to high prey drive. While Plotts are often good with dogs they're raised with, their instinct to track and pursue can be a challenge for smaller, non-canine pets.Therefore, a Bordern Plotthound isn't naturally universally pet-friendly in the way a Golden Retriever might be. They require significant early socialization and ongoing training to coexist peacefully with other animals, especially cats and small pocket pets. Their prey drive means that even with training, supervision around smaller animals is always a good idea, as an instinctual chase response can be hard to override. While they can be excellent companions for other dogs, their intense intelligence and potential for resource guarding (from either parent breed) mean that careful management of toys and food in multi-dog households is also important. With dedicated owners, a Bordern Plotthound can integrate well into a multi-pet home, but it's not a given and requires consistent effort.

The Bordern Plotthound, a mix of Border Collie and Plott Hound, rates a 7 out of 10 for "Good with Children."This hybrid inherits a fascinating blend of traits. From the Border Collie, you get an intelligent, energetic, and often eager-to-please companion who can be incredibly playful and forms strong bonds with their family. This contributes to a dog that can be very engaged with older, more respectful children, enjoying games of fetch or even learning tricks together. However, the Border Collie's herding instinct can sometimes manifest as nipping at heels or trying to "herd" young children, which requires careful management and training.The Plott Hound brings a different dynamic. While generally loyal and courageous, they are also known for their strong prey drive and independent nature. They tend to be a bit more stoic than a Border Collie and might not possess the same inherent desire to constantly interact with children. However, a well-socialized Plott Hound can be very tolerant and patient, especially with familiar children. They are typically not aggressive but may prefer to retreat if overwhelmed by excessive noise or rough handling.Therefore, the Bordern Plotthound's compatibility with children largely depends on which parent breed's traits are more dominant and, crucially, on early socialization and consistent training. They are not naturally gentle and affectionate in the way some "nanny dog" breeds might be, and their energetic nature means they need plenty of exercise to prevent destructive behaviors or hyperactivity around kids. They require supervision, especially with younger children, to ensure both the dog and the child understand appropriate boundaries. With proper introduction, training to manage potential herding instincts, and sufficient mental and physical stimulation, a Bordern Plotthound can be a wonderful and playful companion for an active family with slightly older, respectful children who understand how to interact with a dog. They may be less suitable for very young children who might accidentally provoke them or be overwhelmed by their energy.

The Bordern Plotthound rates a 7 on the "Good with Strangers" trait. This hybrid inherits a fascinating blend of tendencies from its parent breeds. The Border Collie, while intelligent and eager to please, can often be reserved and even wary with strangers, a trait stemming from their herding instincts and a desire to control their environment. The Plott Hound, on the other hand, is typically more outgoing and amiable, known for their sociable nature and generally friendly disposition, even with unfamiliar faces.The Bordern Plotthound usually leans towards a more welcoming stance than the purebred Border Collie, often displaying the Plott Hound's approachable demeanor. They are generally not prone to outright aggression or significant guarding with unknown adults, especially if well-socialized from a young age. However, they aren't always immediately effusive like some highly extroverted breeds. While not typically reserved to the point of unfriendliness, a Bordern Plotthound might initially observe new people with a cautious curiosity before offering a friendly greeting. They are adaptable in public or guest-filled environments once they've assessed the situation, and are less likely to bark excessively at strangers than a highly protective breed. While naturally leaning towards the sociable side, consistent positive socialization from puppyhood is still crucial to ensure they develop into confident and consistently welcoming adults with all new acquaintances. Without proper exposure, the Border Collie's more reserved tendencies could become more prominent.

The Bordern Plotthound rates a 7 for winter tolerance. This hybrid inherits a mix of traits from its parent breeds. The Border Collie contributes a double coat, offering good insulation, and an energetic disposition that keeps them moving and warm. The Plott Hound, while having a shorter, coarser coat, is also an active breed accustomed to rugged outdoor work. The Bordern Plotthound will likely have a medium-thick double coat, providing moderate protection against cold. Their athletic build and typical energy levels mean they generate a good amount of body heat through activity. They are a medium to large-sized breed, which generally aids in retaining warmth compared to smaller dogs. Neither parent breed is brachycephalic, so respiratory issues related to cold air are not a concern.While they possess decent cold tolerance, a rating of 7 acknowledges that they aren't equipped for extreme arctic conditions. In very cold or prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures, especially during periods of inactivity, they could be susceptible to hypothermia. They may require some special care during winter months compared to other companion dogs, particularly those with thicker coats like a Husky or Newfoundland. This might include a warm dog coat for extended outdoor adventures in very low temperatures, and ensuring they have a warm, dry, and draft-free indoor space after being outside. They'll also benefit from continued mental and physical stimulation, even indoors, to maintain their energy and prevent lethargy in cold weather. They should be able to safely enjoy outdoor activities in most cold climates, but owners should be mindful of the duration and intensity of exercise, especially when temperatures drop significantly below freezing.

Summer Tolerance Rating: 6/10The "Bordern Plotthound" generally possesses moderate summer tolerance, earning a 6 out of 10. This hybrid benefits from the Plott Hound's shorter coat and more robust build, which offer some resistance to heat compared to the Border Collie's denser double coat. Neither parent breed is brachycephalic, so the Bordern Plotthound typically has an open airway, reducing the risk of respiratory distress in the heat. However, the Border Collie's energetic nature and the Plott Hound's strong prey drive mean this dog will likely have high activity needs. During hot weather, they are still at risk of heatstroke if exercised excessively or left without shade and water. While they don't typically require the same level of extreme climate control as brachycephalic breeds, special care is needed in summer months compared to other companion dogs. Owners should prioritize early morning or late evening walks, provide ample access to cool water and shade, and be vigilant for signs of overheating, limiting strenuous activity during peak heat hours.

I would rate the "Healthiness" trait of the "Bordern Plotthound" at a 7. This mixed breed generally benefits from "hybrid vigor," meaning the genetic diversity from two distinct parent breeds often leads to a reduced incidence of some purebred health issues. Both the Border Collie and the Plott Hound are generally robust breeds, but they do have their own predispositions. Border Collies can be prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, eye anomalies (like Collie Eye Anomaly), and sometimes epilepsy. Plott Hounds, while generally healthy, can also experience hip dysplasia and a lower likelihood of bloat, a serious stomach condition. The Bordern Plotthound is likely to inherit a mix of these predispositions, but the chances of inheriting *two* copies of a recessive gene for a specific issue are diminished. They are typically active dogs, which helps maintain good weight and muscle tone, contributing to overall health. Their life expectancy is generally in the 10-14 year range, which is good for a medium to large breed. Responsible breeding practices, including health testing of parent dogs for common issues in both Border Collies and Plott Hounds, would significantly enhance the health of this mixed breed. While not typically high-maintenance in terms of health issues requiring constant veterinary intervention, their high energy levels do necessitate consistent exercise and mental stimulation to prevent behavioral problems that can sometimes manifest as health-related stress. Compared to some highly brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds or those known for extensive joint problems, the Bordern Plotthound is generally considered a robust companion dog.

I'd rate the "Protective" trait of the Bordern Plotthound as a 6.5.This breed benefits from the inherent alertness and intelligence of the Border Collie, making them very aware of their surroundings and quick to notice anything out of the ordinary. This translates to good watchdog capabilities; they're likely to bark and alert their owners to strangers or unusual activity. The Plott Hound influence contributes a certain level of courage and a more pronounced territorial instinct than the Border Collie alone might possess, particularly within their home environment. They are deeply loyal to their families and will naturally want to protect them.However, while they are alert and will certainly make a commotion, their primary instinct is generally to deter rather than to engage aggressively. They are not typically an aggressive breed and are more likely to be wary and vocal with strangers rather than overtly hostile. While their size and bark might be a deterrent, they are not bred as dedicated guard dogs in the same vein as a Rottweiler or German Shepherd. They are more of a companion dog with strong protective instincts for their family and territory, capable of offering meaningful protection through their excellent watchfulness and deterrent barking, but less likely to be a physical guard dog that would confront a serious threat without extensive, specific training. Their protective nature leans more towards being a highly reliable alarm system and a brave, loyal family member who will stand their ground vocally.

I would rate the "Life Span" trait of the "Bordern Plotthound" as an 8. This hybrid breed benefits from the genetic diversity of its parent breeds, often experiencing hybrid vigor, which can contribute to a longer and healthier life compared to some purebreds. Both the Border Collie and the Plott Hound generally have good lifespans, typically ranging from 10 to 14 years. While they can inherit health issues common to their parent breeds (like hip and elbow dysplasia, eye conditions from the Border Collie, or bloat from the Plott Hound's larger size), responsible breeding practices and good care significantly mitigate these risks. With proper nutrition, exercise, and regular veterinary check-ups, a Bordern Plotthound can be considered a long-lived companion dog, often exceeding the average lifespan of many other breeds.