Rottweiler Border Collie Mix (Rottie Collie): A Complete Guide to This Intelligent, Energetic Hybrid Dog

Looking for a smart and loyal dog that can also protect you? The Rottweiler Border Collie Mix, sometimes called a Rottie Collie, could be just right for you.

This mix gets its strong, loving nature from the Rottweiler and its smarts and energy from the Border Collie. That means they can be great pets and good at dog jobs too.

This guide will tell you all about them – how they act, how to train them, if they have health problems, and how to take care of their fur. If you’re thinking about getting one or just want to learn more about this cool mix, keep reading to see if a Rottie Collie is the right adventure for you.

🐾 Overview: What Is a Rottweiler Border Collie Mix?

The Rottweiler Border Collie Mix is a designer dog breed created by crossing a purebred Rottweiler with a Border Collie. While not officially recognized by major kennel clubs like the AKC, this mix has gained popularity among active families and dog enthusiasts who appreciate their sharp minds and athletic builds.

Also known as:

• Rottie Collie
• Rottweiler & Border Collie Cross

This hybrid inherits the best traits from both parents:

• The Rottweiler’s loyalty and protective instincts
• The Border Collie’s intelligence and energy

Rottweiler vs. Border Collie vs. Rottie Collie – What’s the Difference?

Key Takeaway: The Rottie Collie combines the Rottweiler’s loyalty with the Border Collie’s agility, making them ideal for adventurous owners! 🐾

🐶 Physical Appearance

Size:

• Weight: 40–100 lbs
• Height: 19–27 inches at the shoulder

Coat:

• Medium-length double coat (can vary depending on which parent’s genes dominate)
• Colors may include black and tan (like a Rottweiler), merle (like some Border Collies), or tricolor patterns

Features:

• Muscular build of the Rottweiler
• Alert expression and bright eyes from the Border Collie
• Strong limbs and agile posture

Because this is a mixed breed, puppies in the same litter can look quite different. Some may take after the Rottweiler, while others resemble the sleeker, more agile Border Collie.

🧠 Temperament & Personality

A Rottweiler Border Collie Mix typically combines:

• The protective nature of the Rottweiler
• The herding drive of the Border Collie
• High intelligence and loyalty
• Lots of energy and alertness

These dogs are generally:

• Smart – highly trainable and eager to learn
• Loyal – devoted to their families
• Energetic – requires lots of physical and mental stimulation
• Alert – excellent watchdogs due to their keen senses

However, early socialization is key to preventing shyness or overprotectiveness. They thrive when they feel part of the family and have clear leadership from their owner.

⚠️ Tip: This mix isn’t recommended for first-time dog owners unless you’re prepared for a challenge and ready to invest time in training.

🎯 Training & Intelligence

If dogs were competing in academic competitions, the Rottweiler Border Collie Mix would likely be at the top of the class. These smart dogs are easy to train because they’re like their Border Collie parent — always eager to please and quick to learn new commands.

Tips for Training:

• Start early — puppyhood is the best time to begin basic obedience.
• Use positive reinforcement — treats, praise, and play work better than punishment.
• Incorporate mental challenges — puzzle toys, scent games, and agility courses keep them engaged.

They excel in:

• Agility
• Obedience trials
• Herding events
• Search and rescue operations

Check out our Border Collie Obedience Training guide for tips on working with intelligent breeds.

🏃‍♂️ Exercise Needs

Prepare yourself for a canine companion with energy levels that rival a professional athlete. The Rottweiler Border Collie Mix typically requires significant daily exercise to maintain both physical and mental health.

Recommended Daily Activity:

• Minimum 1–2 hours of combined physical and mental activity
• Long walks or runs
• Fetch sessions
• Agility or flyball classes
• Interactive playtime or training games

Without adequate stimulation, these dogs may become restless and potentially destructive. If you live an active lifestyle and enjoy outdoor adventures, this breed will fit right in.

Top 5 Training Tips for Your Rottweiler Border Collie Mix

✅ Start Early – Socialize and train from puppyhood
✅ Use Positive Reinforcement – Praise, treats, and play
✅ Challenge Their Mind – Puzzle toys, scent work
✅ Be Consistent – Clear rules and routines
✅ Enroll in Dog Sports – Agility, obedience, herding trials

🐾 Socialization & Family Life

With proper socialization, the Rottweiler Border Collie Mix can be a loving and gentle family member. They often bond closely with their owners and can be great with children, especially if raised together.

With Kids:

• Good with older, respectful kids
• It may be too intense for toddlers without supervision

With Other Pets:

• Can coexist with other pets if introduced early
• Herding instinct may cause them to chase smaller animals

With Strangers:

• Tends to be reserved around unfamiliar people
• Early exposure helps reduce wariness

For help with socializing your pup, check out our Border Collie Socialization guide.

🩺 Health Considerations

Like all crossbreeds, the Rottweiler Border Collie Mix can inherit health issues from both parent breeds. Awareness of these potential concerns is essential to ensure your dog lives a long, healthy life.

Common Health Issues:

Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and proper exercise can help mitigate some of these risks.

💆 Grooming Needs

The grooming needs of a Rottweiler Border Collie Mix can vary depending on which parent breed’s coat they inherit. Generally, they require regular brushing to keep their coat healthy and reduce shedding.

Grooming Tips:

• Brush 2–3 times per week to manage shedding
• Bathe every 6–8 weeks, or as needed
• Trim nails regularly
• Clean ears weekly to prevent infections
• Brush teeth several times a week

If your dog has a longer coat, consider using a deshedding tool during seasonal shedding periods.

🍽️ Feeding Guidelines

A high-quality diet is essential for keeping your Rottweiler Border Collie Mix healthy and energized.

Dietary Recommendations:

• Choose a high-protein kibble formulated for active breeds
• Avoid fillers like corn and soy
• Consider raw or homemade diets under veterinary guidance
• Monitor portion sizes to avoid weight gain

Avoid feeding human foods like chocolate, grapes, and onions. For safe alternatives, see our article on Can Dogs Eat Blueberries?.

🐾 Adoption Tips

When adding a Rottweiler Border Collie Mix to your family, consider adoption. Many mixed-breed dogs end up in shelters or rescues, waiting for their forever homes.

Adoption Resources:

• Check local shelters and rescue groups
• Look for Border Collie or Rottweiler-specific rescues
• Ask about temperament testing before adoption

If purchasing from a breeder, ensure they’re reputable and provide health clearances for both parent breeds. Avoid puppy mills or pet stores whenever possible.

🔁 Similar Breeds

If you’re interested in the Rottweiler Border Collie Mix, you may also want to consider these similar hybrid breeds:

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Are Rottweiler Border Collie mixes good with kids?

Yes, with proper socialization and supervision. They do best with older children who understand how to interact respectfully with dogs.

How much exercise does a Rottweiler Border Collie need?

At least 1–2 hours of combined physical and mental activity per day.

Do they shed a lot?

Yes, especially seasonally. Regular brushing helps control shedding.

Can they live in apartments?

Not ideal. They need space to run and play, so a house with a secure yard is preferred.

Are they easy to train?

Yes! They’re among the most intelligent and responsive breeds, making training enjoyable and effective.

✅ Final Thoughts: Is the Rottweiler Border Collie Mix Right for You?

A Rottweiler Border Collie Mix is a great dog for active people or families who want a loyal and smart pet. They are easy to train, love to work, and have lots of energy, so they can do many fun things with you and become a wonderful part of your family.

However, remember:

• Their intelligence demands mental stimulation
• Their high energy requires an active lifestyle
• Their loyalty needs consistent leadership

Quick Checklist:

✅ Active lifestyle
✅ Time for training and exercise
✅ Experience with intelligent breeds
✅ Secure living environment
✅ Commitment to lifelong care

If you can answer “yes” to these questions, a Rottweiler Border Collie Mix might be your perfect companion.

📖 Related Articles

• Border Collie Working Roles
• Dog Brain Games
• Welcome to Life at Her Paw
• Border Collies – The Art of Canine Exercise