All about Schipper-Collie dog breed

All You Need to Know About the "Schipper-Collie" Breed (parent breeds: "Border Collie" × "Schipperke")

The Schipper-Collie weight typically ranges from 20 to 45 pounds for adults. Males are generally at the higher end of this scale, while females tend to be lighter. This average size makes them a medium-sized dog, combining the sturdy build of a Border Collie with the more compact frame of a Schipperke. A healthy weight for Schipper-Collie will depend on their individual build and activity level, but falls within this range.

What is the average height of a Schipper-Collie?

When considering a Schipper-Collie, potential owners often inquire about Schipper-Collie colors. This hybrid inherits a wide array of coat possibilities from its parent breeds, the Border Collie and the Schipperke.

Schipper-Collie Personality & TemperamentThe Schipper-Collie, a captivating blend of the Border Collie and Schipperke, inherits a fascinating mix of traits, resulting in a highly intelligent, energetic, and loyal companion. This breed is known for its alertness and curiosity, often displaying a lively and engaging demeanor.They are generally friendly and affectionate with their families, forming strong bonds and often seeking to be involved in household activities. Their loyalty is a hallmark, making them excellent watchdogs who are quick to alert their owners to anything unusual, though they are not typically aggressive.Schipper-Collies are generally sociable and enjoy interacting with people and other animals when properly socialized from a young age. Early and consistent socialization is crucial to ensure they grow into well-adjusted adults, especially given the Border Collie's herding instincts and the Schipperke's sometimes independent nature.While adaptable, their high energy levels and need for mental stimulation make apartment living challenging unless their owners are committed to providing ample daily exercise, including walks, playtime, and engaging training sessions. A home with a yard is generally preferred, allowing them space to burn off energy.With children, Schipper-Collies can be wonderful companions, especially if raised with them and taught appropriate interactions. Their playful nature can make them great playmates, but supervision is always recommended, particularly with very young children, due to their herding tendencies which might manifest as gentle nudging.When it comes to other pets, especially other dogs, they generally get along well with proper introductions and socialization. Their herding drive might lead them to "herd" smaller pets, which can be playful but requires management. Early exposure to cats and other small animals is beneficial to foster harmonious relationships.Overall, the Schipper-Collie is a rewarding breed for active individuals or families seeking a clever, devoted, and spirited canine partner. They thrive on having a "job" to do, whether it's learning tricks, participating in dog sports, or simply being an active member of the family.

The Schipper-Collie temperament is a delightful blend of its intelligent and energetic parent breeds, the Border Collie and Schipperke. Expect a loyal, affectionate, and highly intelligent companion dog. They are typically very friendly with their families, often forming strong bonds and seeking to be involved in all household activities. Their sociability extends well to meeting new people and other dogs, especially with proper early socialization.

Schipper-Collie Care: Daily Maintenance & Health Tips

Schipper-Collie Activity Level: How Active Are Schipper-Collie?The Schipper-Collie boasts a moderate to high activity level, blending the intelligent drive of the Border Collie with the spirited energy of the Schipperke. They are active and intelligent dogs that thrive on mental and physical engagement.Typical Energy Levels: Expect a dog with a good amount of energy, capable of bursts of speed and agility. While not constantly "on-the-go" like some working breeds, they require consistent outlets for their energy to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors. They typically balance these short bursts of energy with long periods of rest indoors, especially after sufficient exercise.Daily Exercise Needs: Schipper-Collies need at least 60-90 minutes of vigorous daily exercise. This could include brisk walks, jogging, playing fetch, agility training, or supervised off-leash play in a secure area. Their intelligence also demands mental stimulation, so puzzle toys, training sessions, and interactive games are crucial.Playtime Preferences: They generally love to play! Fetch, chasing toys, and interactive games that challenge their minds are highly enjoyed. They often form strong bonds with their families and enjoy participating in family activities.Limitations Due to Brachycephalic Anatomy: While the Border Collie parent is not brachycephalic, the Schipperke is, making the Schipper-Collie potentially prone to some brachycephalic challenges. Owners must be mindful of overheating, especially during strenuous exercise in warm weather. Avoid intense physical activity during the hottest parts of the day, and always ensure access to fresh water and shade. Monitor their breathing closely for any signs of distress.Suitability: Schipper-Collies are suitable for active families who can commit to providing consistent exercise, training, and mental stimulation. They are generally not suitable for low-energy households or individuals who prefer a very sedentary lifestyle, as their unmet energy needs can lead to frustration and behavioral issues. They excel in environments where their intelligence and energy can be channeled productively.

I'd rate the "Size" trait of the Schipper-Collie a 4.This hybrid, blending the Border Collie and Schipperke, would lean towards the smaller end of medium, but certainly not tiny. The Schipperke is a small dog, typically weighing around 10-16 pounds and standing under 13 inches tall. The Border Collie is a medium-sized dog, usually weighing 30-55 pounds and standing 18-22 inches tall. A Schipper-Collie would likely fall somewhere in between, perhaps weighing 20-35 pounds and standing 14-18 inches tall. While they wouldn't be as petite as a Toy Poodle or a Chihuahua, they would be significantly smaller than a Labrador Retriever or a German Shepherd. Their body structure would likely be athletic and well-proportioned, reflecting the working heritage of both parent breeds. This makes them an excellent candidate for apartment living as long as they receive adequate exercise, as their overall footprint is manageable. Their moderate size also makes them relatively easy to travel with, fitting comfortably in car backseats or pet carriers. For households with space constraints, the Schipper-Collie is a strong contender, offering a companion that isn't overwhelmingly large but still robust enough for active lifestyles.

I would rate the grooming requirements of a Schipper-Collie a 6 out of 10.This rating reflects a moderate level of maintenance, leaning towards the higher side compared to some other companion breeds. The Schipper-Collie inherits its double coat from both parent breeds. The Border Collie contributes a medium-length, dense double coat, while the Schipperke adds its distinct harsh, wiry outer coat and soft, dense undercoat. This combination means significant shedding, particularly during seasonal changes, requiring regular brushing (2-3 times a week, more during shedding season) to prevent mats and control loose hair. While skin folds aren't typically an issue for either parent breed, their dense coats mean attention to moisture and potential hot spots is important, especially after swimming. Ear cleaning should be done routinely to prevent wax buildup and infections, as their ears are often semi-prick or dropped. Nail trimming will be a regular necessity, like with most dogs. Bathing will be needed periodically, perhaps every 4-8 weeks, or as they get dirty, but excessive bathing can strip their natural oils. They aren't particularly prone to specific skin issues more than other breeds, but their dense coats can conceal problems if not regularly groomed and inspected. Therefore, while not demanding daily professional grooming, they are far from wash-and-wear and require consistent effort to keep their coat healthy and tidy.

Rating: 8Explanation: The Schipper-Collie inherits a potent combination of high energy and intelligence from both parent breeds. The Border Collie is renowned for its insatiable need for physical and mental stimulation, often requiring several hours of vigorous activity daily, including herding, agility, or long runs. While the Schipperke is smaller, it's also a surprisingly active and spirited dog, bred for working on barges and displaying bursts of energy.Therefore, the Schipper-Collie will likely be a very high-energy dog. They will thrive on structured routines that incorporate a significant amount of daily exercise, not just short walks. This could include long, brisk walks, running, hiking, extended playtime, and dog sports like agility, flyball, or obedience training. Their keen intelligence also means they need mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors. While the Schipperke isn't brachycephalic, the Border Collie certainly isn't either, so there are no respiratory limitations to consider. This breed is definitely not suited for a sedentary lifestyle and will require an active owner committed to meeting their substantial physical and mental demands to ensure they remain healthy and well-behaved.

I'd rate the "Schipper-Collie" (Border Collie × Schipperke) a 9 out of 10 for watchdog ability.This hybrid is likely to be an exceptionally vigilant and effective household watchdog, far from a passive companion. The Border Collie parent contributes a keen intelligence, a strong sense of awareness of their surroundings, and a tendency to notice and respond to anomalies. While not typically a "bark at everything" breed, they are observant and will alert to genuinely unusual occurrences. The Schipperke, however, brings an almost legendary level of alertness and a highly developed "little black devil" watchdog instinct. They are known for their quick, sharp barks at anything out of place, their territorial nature, and their willingness to confront perceived threats, despite their small size.The combination results in a dog that is not only highly intelligent and attuned to its environment (Border Collie), but also possesses the assertive and vocal nature of the Schipperke. They would be quick to respond to unfamiliar sounds or people, using their barking as an immediate and meaningful early warning system. Their territorial instincts would be strong, and their assertive vocalizations would likely be more than enough to deter many potential intruders, even if their physical presence isn't intimidating. They would provide excellent, consistent early warnings in a home environment.

I would rate the "Good with Other Dogs" trait of the Schipper-Collie a 7 out of 10.The Schipper-Collie, inheriting from the Border Collie and Schipperke, generally possesses a strong potential for being good with other dogs, but it's not always an automatic given. Both parent breeds, when properly socialized, can be quite tolerant and even enjoy canine company. The Border Collie is often keen to engage and play, while the Schipperke, though sometimes a bit more self-important, can co-exist happily. This hybrid typically benefits from its Border Collie parent's intelligence and desire to please, making them receptive to training for appropriate dog-dog interactions. They can often adapt well to multi-dog households and enjoy having canine companions, especially if those companions match their energy levels for play.However, the Schipperke's side can introduce a degree of assertiveness or territoriality, and without early and consistent socialization, this could manifest as some suspicion or even a tendency to "boss" other dogs, particularly smaller or less confident ones. Their high intelligence and energy also mean that boredom or a lack of mental stimulation could lead to behavioral issues that might spill over into their interactions with other dogs. Therefore, while they have a high capacity for being dog-friendly and often thrive in canine company, careful introductions, ongoing positive reinforcement, and continued socialization are crucial to ensure they remain extremely sociable and dog-friendly rather than just tolerant. They aren't inherently aggressive, but their strong personalities require guidance to truly shine as excellent canine citizens.

Rating: 9Explanation: The Schipper-Collie, a mix of the Border Collie and Schipperke, would inherit a significantly high energy level. Both parent breeds are renowned for their incredible activity, endurance, and intelligence. Border Collies are quintessential working dogs, bred for herding over vast distances, demanding hours of physical and mental stimulation daily. Schipperkes, while smaller, are equally energetic and possess a lively, inquisitive nature, always ready for action. This combination would result in a dog with an exceptionally high need for physical activity and mental engagement. They would thrive in environments where they can participate in dog sports, long hikes, or extensive play sessions. This breed is decidedly naturally active and far from laid-back compared to most other companion dogs.However, a crucial consideration for the Schipper-Collie is the potential for brachycephalic anatomy, specifically if the Schipperke's influence in the mix leads to a shortened snout. While Schipperkes are not typically considered severely brachycephalic, some individuals can have flatter faces than others. If the Schipper-Collie inherits a more brachycephalic structure, it would significantly impact their stamina and exercise tolerance. Dogs with brachycephalic syndrome can struggle with overheating and breathing difficulties during strenuous activity, limiting their ability to engage in prolonged or intense exercise, especially in warm weather. Therefore, while their inherent drive for activity would be a 10, any brachycephalic characteristics would necessitate careful monitoring and moderation of exercise to prevent health complications, effectively bringing down the practical "energetic" rating to a 9, as they might not always be able to express their full energy potential without risk.

I would rate the "Training Requirements" of the Schipper-Collie at a 7. This hybrid inherits high intelligence and a strong work ethic from both parent breeds, making them generally quick learners. However, the Border Collie's intensity and the Schipperke's independent, sometimes mischievous nature mean they can develop their own agendas if not properly stimulated and guided. While highly responsive to positive reinforcement and eager to please a trusted leader, their intelligence can translate into stubbornness or a tendency to outsmart an inconsistent owner. They have excellent attention spans when engaged in a task but can become bored and then destructive or "selective deaf" if training is repetitive or lacks purpose. They absolutely demand consistency and structured routines to thrive and prevent unwanted behaviors. This breed is generally not beginner-friendly; it requires an experienced handler who can provide mental and physical stimulation, firm but fair leadership, and consistent, engaging training to channel their considerable drive and intelligence effectively. Without this, they can be highly demanding and challenging to live with.

I would rate the "Playful" trait of the Schipper-Collie a 9 out of 10.The Schipper-Collie, a mix of the Border Collie and Schipperke, inherits a potent combination of high energy and intelligence. Both parent breeds are renowned for their zest for life and love of activity, and this hybrid is no exception. They are naturally spirited and exceptionally fun-loving, thriving on interaction and mental stimulation. You can expect a Schipper-Collie to be highly enthusiastic in daily life, always ready for a game of fetch, a training session, or an exploratory walk. They demonstrate a strong love for games and interaction, often initiating play themselves and responding with immense excitement to toys and any invitation for playtime. Their attention-seeking behavior is often expressed through playful nudges or bringing you a toy, clearly indicating their desire for engagement. Compared to most other companion dogs, the Schipper-Collie is far from laid-back, possessing a remarkable and infectious enthusiasm for life and play that makes them incredibly engaging companions.

I'd rate the "Affectionate" trait of the Schipper-Collie a 9 out of 10. This hybrid is likely to be an incredibly loving and people-oriented companion. Both parent breeds, the Border Collie and the Schipperke, are known for their strong bonds with their families. The Border Collie brings an intense loyalty, a desire to be involved in all family activities, and a high sensitivity to owner emotions, often following their people from room to room. They thrive on praise and interaction. The Schipperke, despite its independent spirit when it comes to guarding, is famously devoted to its human family, enjoying physical closeness, lap-sitting, and constant companionship. They are known for their playful affection and desire to be the center of attention. Combining these traits, the Schipper-Collie will almost certainly be a dog that thrives on affection, seeking out human companionship, enjoying physical closeness like cuddling, and exhibiting a deep loyalty. They are likely to be highly attuned to their owner's moods and will prefer to be close to their family members at all times, rather than being an independent breed.

I would rate the "Good with Other Pets" trait of the Schipper-Collie a 7 out of 10.The Schipper-Collie, being a mix of Border Collie and Schipperke, inherits a complex set of behaviors regarding other pets. Border Collies are generally intelligent and can be very good with other animals, especially if raised with them from a young age, but they do possess a strong herding instinct that can sometimes translate into "nipping" at or "rounding up" other pets, even in a playful way that might not be appreciated by all animals. Their prey drive, while manageable, can be present, particularly with smaller, fast-moving animals like cats if not properly introduced and supervised. Schipperkes, on the other hand, are known for their confident, sometimes dominant personalities, and their strong prey drive, especially towards rodents and smaller creatures, which can extend to cats or even smaller dogs if not carefully socialized.Therefore, while the Schipper-Collie has the potential to be extremely pet-friendly, it's not always a naturally occurring trait without effort. Their high intelligence means they are highly trainable, and with consistent early socialization, positive reinforcement, and clear boundaries, they can absolutely learn to coexist peacefully and even form strong bonds with other pets. However, their combined ancestral traits mean that resource guarding tendencies (especially with the Schipperke influence) and a strong prey or herding drive will likely require mindful management and training to ensure harmony in a multi-pet household. They are adaptable but thrive with structure and guidance. For an owner willing to invest in socialization and training, a Schipper-Collie can be an excellent multi-pet companion, but ignoring these needs could lead to friction.

The Schipper-Collie, a cross between a Border Collie and a Schipperke, rates a 7/10 for "Good with Children." This breed generally possesses a high degree of intelligence and a strong desire to be involved in family activities, which can make them wonderful companions for active children. Border Collies are known for their gentle nature, trainability, and devotion, while Schipperkes, though smaller, are typically playful and alert. This combination often results in a dog that is both affectionate and energetic.However, the "7" reflects the need for some consideration and guidance. While naturally playful and often tolerant, both parent breeds have strong herding instincts and can be sensitive to rough handling or excessive noise. Without proper socialization from a young age and consistent training, a Schipper-Collie might try to "herd" smaller children, which can involve nipping at heels, or become overwhelmed by boisterous play. They are not typically a "set it and forget it" breed with children; supervision is key, especially with very young kids, to ensure respectful interactions on both sides. With proper introductions, training, and a family that understands their need for mental and physical stimulation, they can thrive and be incredibly loving, patient, and playful companions for children of various ages, particularly those who enjoy active games.

Rating: 7The Schipper-Collie, a mix of the Border Collie and Schipperke, typically falls in the moderately sociable range when it comes to strangers. Border Collies are generally reserved with new people, preferring to observe before engaging, while Schipperkes are known for their vigilant and sometimes wary nature. This combination results in a dog that is unlikely to be immediately effusive with unfamiliar adults. They are not inherently unfriendly, but rather observant and discerning. They may bark initially as a form of alert, especially due to the Schipperke's guarding tendencies, but are generally not aggressive. With proper socialization from a young age, they can learn to be comfortable and polite in public or guest-filled environments. Without adequate exposure, they might lean more towards shyness or increased suspicion. Their adaptability largely depends on early experiences and consistent positive reinforcement, rather than an innate outgoing disposition.

I would rate the "Schipper-Collie" (Border Collie × Schipperke) a 7 for winter tolerance.The "Schipper-Collie" benefits from the double coat typically found in both parent breeds. The Border Collie contributes a dense, often medium-length double coat designed for herding in various climates, and the Schipperke possesses a distinct thick, stand-off double coat that provides good insulation. This combination suggests a very effective barrier against cold, likely offering good protection from wind and light precipitation. Both parent breeds are also active and generally lean, meaning they can generate body heat through movement. Their moderate size (neither tiny nor giant) helps with heat retention compared to very small breeds, and their mesocephalic (non-brachycephalic) anatomy means they shouldn't experience breathing difficulties worsened by cold air.However, a "7" rather than a "9" or "10" acknowledges a few considerations. While both parents have good coats, the Schipperke is a smaller breed, and while its coat is dense, its overall body mass is less than a typical Border Collie. This slightly smaller size could mean they lose heat a bit faster in extreme cold compared to a larger, heavily coated Northern breed. Also, while active, their inherent drive to work or play might lead them to push their limits in cold weather if not monitored. Therefore, while generally very resilient, they are not quite on par with true Arctic breeds like Siberian Huskies or Alaskan Malamutes that are specifically adapted to survive in extreme, prolonged sub-zero temperatures with minimal shelter.Compared to many other companion dogs, the Schipper-Collie generally *does not* require extensive special care during winter months. They will likely thrive with regular outdoor activity even in cold climates. However, in very harsh conditions (e.g., prolonged exposure to well below freezing temperatures, strong winds, or heavy snowfall), common sense precautions are advisable: ensure they have a warm, dry place to rest; limit prolonged exposure to extreme cold; and consider a dog jacket for very long, inactive periods outside or for extremely sensitive individuals. Monitoring for signs of discomfort or hypothermia (shivering, lethargy) is always wise, especially for puppies or older dogs. Overall, they are well-equipped for most winter conditions in temperate zones, but not quite for an expedition to the North Pole.

I'd rate the "Schipper-Collie" breed's "Summer" tolerance at a 6.This rating reflects a moderate tolerance, leaning towards requiring some caution during hot weather. Neither parent breed, the Border Collie nor the Schipperke, is brachycephalic, which is a significant positive factor as it removes the inherent breathing difficulties associated with short snouts in heat. Both are active, intelligent breeds, and their coats, while dense, are not typically as extremely heavy or long as some Arctic breeds. Border Collies have a double coat designed for insulation in both cold and some heat, and Schipperkes have a dense, slightly longer double coat as well.However, a rating of 6, rather than higher, acknowledges that both parent breeds are working dogs known for their energy and desire for activity. This inherent drive can lead them to overexert themselves in heat if not carefully managed. Their double coats, while offering some protection from the sun, can also trap heat if not shed properly or if the dog isn't provided with ample shade and water. There's no specific anatomical feature that makes them exceptionally heat-tolerant, like a single, short coat. They are certainly at risk of heatstroke if pushed too hard during peak summer temperatures.Therefore, the Schipper-Collie will require special care in summer months compared to many other companion dogs, especially those with very short, single coats or lower energy drives. This includes prioritizing exercise during cooler parts of the day (early morning/late evening), ensuring constant access to fresh water and shade, avoiding hot pavements, and being vigilant for signs of overheating. While not as sensitive as a bulldog or pug, they are far from being able to comfortably accompany you on a long midday summer hike.

I'd rate the "Healthiness" trait of the Schipper-Collie a solid 8 out of 10. This hybrid breed benefits significantly from the genetic diversity provided by its parent breeds, the Border Collie and the Schipperke, both of which are generally known for their robust health. While not immune to all health issues, they are less prone to some of the severe genetic predispositions seen in more inbred or specialized breeds.Border Collies can have some concerns with hip and elbow dysplasia, Collie eye anomaly, and certain neurological conditions like Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis (NCL), though responsible breeding has greatly reduced the prevalence of many of these. Schipperkes, while generally very healthy, can occasionally experience Legg-Calve-Perthes disease and Patellar Luxation, but these are not exceedingly common.The Schipper-Collie, as a crossbreed, often exhibits "hybrid vigor," meaning the offspring can be healthier and more resilient than either parent breed due to a wider gene pool. Life expectancy for this mix would likely fall in the 12-15 year range, consistent with healthy medium-sized dogs. They are generally considered a robust breed compared to many companion dogs, not typically high-maintenance in terms of health concerns. However, like all dogs, they benefit from responsible breeding practices that screen for common inherited conditions in the parent breeds, regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and sufficient exercise to prevent obesity and maintain joint health. While not exceptionally unique in their health profile, their combination of two generally healthy breeds makes them a good bet for a long and active life.

I would rate the "Protective" trait of the Schipper-Collie a 6 out of 10.The Schipper-Collie, being a mix of Border Collie and Schipperke, inherits a fascinating blend of protective instincts. The Border Collie, while generally loyal and attentive, is not typically known for strong territorial aggression or overt protective behaviors towards people, but rather its flock. The Schipperke, on the other hand, is a notorious "little black devil" – fiercely loyal, highly alert, and known for its strong territorial instincts and distrust of strangers, making it an excellent watchdog despite its size.Therefore, the Schipper-Collie will likely be a very alert dog, inheriting the keen senses and watchfulness of both parents. Its territorial instincts will likely be moderate to strong, leaning more towards the Schipperke's influence, meaning it will likely bark at anything perceived as an intruder or unusual activity. Loyalty to owners will be exceptionally high, forming strong bonds and wanting to be near its family. Its reaction to strangers will likely be cautious and reserved, with a tendency to bark and warn, rather than immediately befriend.While the Schipper-Collie would excel as an excellent watchdog, effectively alerting its owners to any perceived threat, it is more of a companion dog that offers protection through its vigilance and warning barks, rather than a physically imposing guard dog. Due to its size (likely medium, depending on the individual genetics) and the Border Collie's less aggressive nature, it's unlikely to be capable of offering meaningful physical protection against a determined intruder in a household setting, though its persistent barking and general wariness would certainly be a deterrent.

I would rate the "Life Span" trait of the Schipper-Collie a 9 out of 10.This hybrid breed is likely to be quite long-lived. Both parent breeds, the Border Collie and the Schipperke, are known for their excellent longevity. Border Collies typically live for 10-17 years, with many exceeding 12, while Schipperkes boast an impressive average lifespan of 12-16 years, with many reaching 18 or even 20. The combination of these two hardy breeds, coupled with the potential benefits of hybrid vigor, suggests a very strong predisposition for a long life. While no breed is entirely free from health concerns, neither parent breed is particularly plagued by widespread, life-shortening genetic diseases. Responsible breeding practices would further minimize the risk of inheriting any predispositions to conditions like hip and elbow dysplasia, eye anomalies, or epilepsy, which can occasionally affect Border Collies, or patellar luxation in Schipperkes. With proper nutrition, exercise, and veterinary care, a Schipper-Collie can be expected to enjoy a significantly longer lifespan than many other companion dog breeds.