Borador

Boradors are all about adventure and having a good time with their family in tow. This playful pup is a mixed-breed dog that’s likely been hanging around for a while, but only got their official moniker in the early 2000s. To understand them, we first have to get to know their mom and dad: Labrador Retrievers: These water-loving goofballs hail from Newfoundland in the 17th century, when they were champions at hauling in fishing nets—no matter how chilly the water! Their good looks and sunny personalities quickly won them fans (including The Earl of Malmesbury), and today, they're beloved family dogs and still working gundogs. Border Collies: These brainy herders came from Scotland in the 18th century. Their name might come from a Gaelic word for "useful," which fits since they're the world's top sheep wranglers. Their herding style is like a quiet, sneaky dance with the sheep, which has made them an all-star athlete in modern dog sports.

Boradors are like furry Energizer Bunnies, so their owner needs to be able to keep up with their active and playful personality. Part-time adventurer and part-time cuddle buddy, a Borador likes to have the best of both worlds, from hikes and playtime in the park to snuggling up with their family after a long, fun day. While they love kids and make for a great family dog, tiny tots might get swept up in their playful energy.

They may be dogs by DNA, but Boradors are busy bees. Their highly active nature means they crave exercise and outdoor fun, so it’s best to be sure these pups get at least 2 hours of exercise per day. In between, they’ll still love to play games and train with you, and enjoy an interactive toy or two.

Considering their ancestors are two outdoor working dogs, it’s no surprise the words “walk” and “outside” will have a Borador wagging its tail before their owners can even open the door. They’re a very active breed that thrives with a large, fenced-in yard for running and herding to their heart’s content. Don’t let that deter you from bringing a Borador home if you live in the city though; as long as they get a long walk in or time at the local dog park each day, they’ll be a perfectly happy pup.

Though their fur length can vary and depends on whether they take after their short-haired Labrador or long-haired Border Collie ancestors, the good news is even the fluffiest Borador has a fairly low-maintenance coat. They do shed, however. If they have more of a Border Collie coat, watch out for mats around the ears and inside of the thighs. Either way, one good brushing a week followed by well-deserved belly rubs is enough to help these pups put their best fur forward.

This breed is super sharp and easy to train. Just don't mistake its quick-learning skills for being naturally well-behaved; a Borador does require rigorous training if you want any hopes of a quiet afternoon. They’re prone to learning bad habits as quickly as they learn good ones, so reward-based training should start as early as possible and be kept up. Otherwise, you may have a rambunctious Borador on your hands. Being such an active and intelligent pup has its perks, though: They are a great breed for dog sports and agility work.

Since it’s a natural mix of two very happy-go-lucky breeds, the Borador makes for the perfect, playful four-legged addition to any family, even ones with kiddos. Long walks? Agility sports? Movie marathons with the family? Count them in for it all! Not to mention, these smarty-paws learn tricks faster than you can say “treat,” making them super easy to train.