Lilac Border Collie: Facts, Origin & History (with Pictures)

Border Collies are a breed of great stamina and excellence. They have earned their place in the world, champions among sheepdogs and notable family companions. The Lilac Border Collie is not another separate breed—it’s simply the coat color.

Lilac Border Collies are much rarer than other colors. Because of this, they are more sought-after and expensive, in addition to being hard to find. Let’s learn more about the history of this charming dog and its lovely coat.

Breed Overview

Height:

21–22 inches

Weight:

38–42 pounds

Lifespan:

10–17 years

Colors:

Lilac, white, light brown

Suitable for:

Active families, land owners, farmers

Temperament:

Energetic, intelligent, dependable, alert

Lilac Border Collies are a specific coat color that exists in the breed. This rare coat color is a lovely sight to behold, so take it all in if you’re lucky enough to meet one. It is just one of the many beautiful options.

This color variation comes from puppies with homozygous recessive genetics for their B and D locus. The black or brown color dilutes, giving way to this incredible tone.

Lilac Border Collie Breed Characteristics

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The Earliest Records of Lilac Border Collie in History

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The Border Collie is a herding dog that is a champion among canines. While we have records dating back 150 years, historians believe this breed might predate that tremendously.

A book titled “Treatise of English Dogges” features a descriptively similar herding breed—could it be the early Border Collie? It’s hard to know for sure, but it is certainly speculated.

Revered for its intelligence and capabilities, the Border Collie comes in a variety of stunning colors—including the Lilac coat.

How Lilac Border Collie Gained Popularity

Border Collies are classic Sheepdogs. Everything about their lineage has prepared them for herding. This particular breed has the endurance, vast intelligence, and trainability to perform extreme work tasks on the farm.

These dogs are always alert and ready, making them superior work dogs. Since they were so valuable in terms of work and service, they have really asserted their place in the world of dog popularity—today ranking #35 on the American Kennel Club list of breed popularity.

However, the Lilac Border Collie is the rarest of all colors—and, subsequently, one of the most sought-after.

Formal Recognition of Lilac Border Collie

The Border Collie was recognized in Great Britain by the Kennel Club in 1976. Some time later, the Border Collie was formally recognized by the AKC in 1955. Originally, the AKC classed the Border Collie under the miscellaneous category.

The Border Collie was the 139th breed recognized by the AKC.

lilac border collie dog lying down on the grass at the park
Image Credit: Susan McQuade, Shutterstock

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Top 5 Unique Facts About Lilac Border Collie

Since the lilac color is simply a coat variation, there’s little to say about the color specifically. But here are five nifty facts about the breed.

1. The Border Collie Comes in a Variety of Coat Colors

The Lilac color is achieved by breeding a chocolate and blue dog. However, that’s not all! There are several other Border Collie colors apart from Lilac.

These include:
  • Black

  • Blue

  • Blue merle

  • Red

  • Red merle

  • Sable

  • White and black

  • White and blue merle

  • White and red

  • Saddleback sable

  • Sable merle

  • Gold

  • Brindle

  • White and Blue

  • White and Red Merle

  • White Ticked

  • Seal

  • White and Seal

  • White and Gold


2. These Dogs Are Incredibly Intelligent

The Border Collie consistently ranks number one for the highest intelligence in canines. These dogs are alert, responsive, and trainable. They constantly impress professionals with their capabilities, always pushing the envelope on what to expect from canines.

This breed is often described as being a workaholic. Without a job to do, they get incredibly antsy and bored. They thrive when learning new things and remarkably show up when a new concept is presented to them.

lilac border collie dog playing with stick outdoors
Image Credit: Eva Manzano, Shutterstock

3. This Breed Makes a Great Search and Rescue Dog

Because of the physical athleticism and incredible mental capabilities of this breed, they make extremely good search and rescue dogs. They are tasked all the time to help teams locate missing persons in disasters and other events.

They have all the necessary traits: intelligence, a superior sense of smell, speed, and agility. Put all of these together, and you have one heck of a worker.


4. Lilac Is Technically Muted Red

The Border Collie has lots of exciting colors. The Lilac color is actually a dilution of the color red. It expresses itself in a diluted gene, making the red appear faded and somewhat soft purple.

Even though there might be a hint of purplish tone, their coat could be described as a diluted cool brown.


5. Border Collies Are Record Breakers

Border Collies are breaking records all the time. For example, a duo of Border Collies broke a record on December 22nd, 2020. In a single minute, they did 28 tricks with precision and swiftness.

Directly afterward, the female Border Collie crawled 5 meters in 2.175 seconds. This broke the record for the fastest crawl.

lilac border collie puppy dog running on the grass
Image Credit: xkunclova, Shutterstock

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Does the Lilac Border Collie Make a Good Pet?

The Lilac Border Collie can make an excellent pet. But we want to be real with you. Having a dog of any breed has its fair share of positives and negatives. So we’ll share the good, the bad, and the ugly so you can decide if it’s a good pet for you.

The Border Collie is unmatched in terms of intelligence. If you’re looking for a dog you can easily train and acclimate into the family, this is certainly a top contender. However, it would be best if you were consistent and never restricted your Border Collies’ access to exercise.

This is not the kind of dog you can have cooped up in an apartment or a kennel all day. They absolutely require physical exercise to stimulate their mind and body. If you do not cater to their extreme physical needs, they will develop issues including separation anxiety, destructive tendencies, and other unsavory behaviors.

Border Collies are best suited for homes with a large fenced-in yard or a lot of land. They need to be given tasks; otherwise, they will become very bored.

Are Border Collies Good with Kids?

Even though Border Collies make excellent family companions, being completely compatible with kids, they are herding dogs. That means they might nip at the heels!

If you have an athletic lifestyle where you’re on the go often, a Border Collie can acclimate very well. They also make excellent playmates since their energy levels match young children’s. Border Collies are also very attached to other canines, so having more than one is always a good idea.

It is not uncommon to see your Border Collie nipping at the heels of your children to try to get them in line. This is a primal instinct for them, simply part of the breed’s makeup. And while these behaviors can be curbed, they cannot be changed.

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Conclusion

The Border Collie is an excellent addition to your home, permitting you have the time and energy for this particular dog breed. If you are equipped to deal with this strong breed’s physical and emotional needs, you can have long-lasting replaceable companionship.

The lilac variation is simply a coat color variation of the Border Collie, but it is one of the rarest and most beautiful of all.


Featured Image Credit: fontenelesther, Shutterstock

The post Lilac Border Collie: Facts, Origin & History (with Pictures) appeared first on Pet Keen.

Black Mini Goldendoodle: Facts, History & Origin (With Pictures)

Goldendoodles are hybrids between Golden Retrievers and Miniature Poodles. The Black Mini Goldendoodle is a miniature version of the designer breed and has a unique solid black coat.

Are you wondering why a “black” coat is a big deal? Well, most dogs of the breed have red, chocolate, apricot, or light tan coats. Black is the least common color, assuring you of a unique-looking dog.

Read on for in-depth information about the genetics behind this unique coat coloration. We will also analyze five unique facts about the Black Mini Goldendoodle and explore the breed’s history, popularity, official recognition, and more.

Breed Overview

Height:

13 to 20 inches

Weight:

15 to 35 pounds

Lifespan:

12 to 15 years

Colors:

Black

Suitable for:

Active families with time to provide lots of attention and affection

Temperament:

Friendly, happy, playful, outgoing, intelligent, and easy to train

Goldendoodles vary in size because of their Poodle heritage. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), the Poodle breed comes in three sizes: toy, miniature, and standard dogs.

Still, Goldendoodles vary in size, depending on the size of the Poodle used by a breeder. According to the Goldendoodles of North America (GANA), they are classified into four size categories. These include petite, miniature, medium, and standard Goldendoodles.

Miniature variations of the breed weigh between 26 and 35 pounds and are crossbreeds between a Golden Retriever and a miniature Poodle.

Golden Retrievers, as the name suggests, often have gold-colored coats. However, some individuals have dark red or light cream coats. Poodles come in various coat shades, including black, white, apricot, gray, silver, cream, and brown.

Black Goldendoodles, irrespective of size, are a big deal because purebred Golden Retrievers don’t come in solid black coats. To achieve solid black puppies, a breeder must have an exhaustive understanding of the genetics behind this unique coat coloration.

Black Mini Goldendoodle Characteristics

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The Earliest Records of Black Mini Goldendoodle in History

The earliest record of the Goldendoodle breed can be traced back to the late 1960s. At the time, crossbreeding experiments were not so popular, and it took decades before the Goldendoodle earned the official status of a hybrid.

The motive behind breeding the Golden Retriever and the Poodle was to achieve a dog that combines the best traits of both breeds. While Golden Retrievers are known for their obedience, Poodles are super intelligent and only second to the smartest dog breed in the world, the Border Collie.

How the Black Mini Goldendoodle Gained Popularity

The Goldendoodle’s intelligence, obedience, and warm temperament amazed dog lovers worldwide. Breeders began intentionally pairing Golden Retrievers and Poodles in the late 1980s.

By the 1990s, Goldendoodles had gained massive popularity and even inspired the rise of other Poodle mixes, including Labradoodles.

Goldendoodles, irrespective of size and color, have a massive fan base. These dogs are prized for more than their good looks. They make excellent family and therapy pets because of their loyalty, affection, and intelligence.

Formal Recognition of the Black Mini Goldendoodle

The American Kennel Club (AKC) does not recognize the Black Mini Goldendoodle. However, the hybrid is registered by various national and international organizations. These organizations include the Designer Dogs Kennel Club (DDKC), Dog Registry of America, Inc. (DRA), American Canine Hybrid Club (ACHC), and the International Designer Canine Registry (IDCR).

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Top 3 Unique Facts About Black Mini Goldendoodles

Are you the lucky owner of a Black Mini Goldendoodle, or do you want to welcome one to your household? Here are three unique facts you should know about your furry friend.

1. They Make Terrible Guard Dogs

Black Mini Goldendoodles are family-oriented dogs with happy, friendly, and outgoing personalities. These dogs, like Poodles, are also brilliant and generally easy to train.

The hyper-social nature of Goldendoodles, even with strangers, makes them an ill-fit for people looking for reliable guard dogs. Moreover, these dogs love following their owners around and can get needy and clingy, especially if not properly trained and socialized. Their need to be around people makes them prone to separation anxiety if left alone at home.

On the bright side, Black Mini Goldendoodles are patient and gentle with kids. They also play nice with other pets, although you should beware of their strong prey drive. There’s a good chance your dog will not let your bunny or guinea pig live in peace.


2. Getting the Black Color Is a Bit Tricky!

Poodles come in various coat colors, including black. However, purebred Golden Retrievers don’t come in pure black. This makes it challenging to achieve solid Black Goldendoodle puppies. Any other coat colors in the parent breeds’ bloodline can influence a puppy’s ultimate coat expression.

So, how do breeders achieve Black Goldendoodle puppies?

Although the process typically involves using multiple generations of either breed, breeders with an in-depth understanding of coat color genetics can breed Black Goldendoodles. The trick lies in breeding a Black Miniature Poodle and a Golden Retriever with a copy of the recessive black gene.


3. The Black Coat Color Is Uncommon

Although the popularity of Goldendoodles has grown immensely over the past decade, black mini Goldendoodles are still relatively rare.

Only a few breeders have mastered the art of breeding puppies with this unique coloring. Even those who understand the genetics of coat coloration may not be willing to commit to the time and effort required to produce black puppies.

Generally, they find it easier to focus on creating puppies with typical coat shades like apricot, red, and dark golden tones.

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Does the Black Mini Goldendoodle Make a Good Pet?

Black Mini Goldendoodles can blend well into any household. They are loving companions and don’t mind running around with kids. Although they love being the center of attention, they also thrive in multi-pet homes and typically treat other resident pets as play buddies.

If you are looking for a loyal and affectionate furry companion, the Black Mini Goldendoodle is an excellent choice. The hybrid adapts well to ranch or apartment living and maintains a calm and pleasant demeanor when offered plenty of mental and physical stimulation.

Black Mini Goldendoodles are people pleasers and love to follow commands. This makes them excellent furry family members that are easy to train and live with. The only downside is that they are likelier to befriend an intruder than scare them away.

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Final Thoughts

Black Mini Goldendoodles are adorable hybrids that combine some of the best traits of Golden Retrievers and Poodles. They have big personalities and are joyful, friendly, charismatic, and playful. These dogs offer unrivaled companionship because of their innate need to build and maintain strong bonds with their owners.

If you fancy a dog that will make you the center of its universe, it’s hard to go wrong with a Black Mini Goldendoodle.

In return for unwavering loyalty, you must be ready to provide plenty of affection and attention. Moreover, Black Mini Goldendoodles are happier in households where they receive adequate mental and physical stimulation.


Featured Image Credit: Wirestock Creators, Shutterstock

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F1b Goldendoodle: Facts, Pictures, Origin & History

The Goldendoodle, a delightful mix of a Golden Retriever and a Poodle, is a popular designer breed known for its playful and affectionate nature. The F1b Goldendoodle is a cross between a Goldendoodle and Poodle. This combination of beauty, brains, and an amiable personality make this breed a standout choice for many families and individuals. Let’s take a look at all this breed has to offer.

Breed Overview

Height:

12–18 inches tall

Weight:

15–35 pounds

Lifespan:

12–15 years

Colors:

White, blue, silver, red, brown, gray, black

Suitable for:

Active families, those looking for a low-shedding dog

Temperament:

Loyal & loving, intelligent, easy to train, friendly, gets along with other pets

F1b Goldendoodles are special for a number of reasons. Their delightful and endearing nature makes them popular among dog owners. F1b Goldendoodles are known for their friendly disposition and affectionate nature. They are great with families and children, making them ideal pets for homes with kids. Goldendoodles have a low-shedding coat, which is beneficial for people who suffer from allergies or those who do not want to deal with excessive dog hair around their home.

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Goldendoodle Breed Characteristics

F1b goldendoodle sitting in the snowy ground
Image Credit: Marcello Sgarlato, Shutterstock

Despite their uniform appearance, F1b Goldendoodles can vary greatly in size, coat type, and color due to the genetic diversity of their parent breeds. Some may inherit more traits from the Golden Retriever side, while others may lean more towards the Poodle. This means no two Goldendoodles are exactly alike, making each one uniquely special.

The Earliest Records of F1b Goldendoodles in History

The Goldendoodle is a relatively new breed that originated in North America and Australia in the early 1990s. The idea was to create a larger-sized version of the popular Cockapoo that would also possess the desirable traits of the Golden Retriever and Poodle, such as intelligence, trainability, and a hypoallergenic coat.

Goldendoodles that are a cross between a purebred Golden Retriever and a purebred Poodle are known as F1 Goldendoodles. The “F” stands for filial, and the 1 refers to the generation. So, F1 Goldendoodles are essentially 1st generation Goldendoodles that are 50% Golden Retriever and 50% Poodle. An F1b Goldendoodle is a cross between a 1st generation Goldendoodle and the original Poodle parent, in a “back cross,” which is what the “b” in F1b stands for. So, F1b Goldendoodles are 75% Poodle and 25% Golden Retriever.

How F1b Goldendoodles Gained Popularity

Goldendoodles quickly gained popularity due to their adorable looks, friendly temperament, and hypoallergenic coats. As people became more aware of allergies, the demand for hypoallergenic dogs like the Goldendoodle increased. Their intelligence and trainability also made them popular as therapy and assistance dogs.

Since F1b Goldendoodles are 75% Poodle and 25% Golden Retriever, they have more Poodle genetics and characteristics. This should make them more hypoallergenic and low-shedding, which is why they are becoming increasingly popular especially for people that want a low-shedding dog or those with dog allergies.

Goldendoodle Near Autumn Leaves
Image Credit: Graham Roy, Pexels

Formal Recognition of F1b Goldendoodles

While the Goldendoodle is not officially recognized by major kennel clubs due to its status as a hybrid breed, it is recognized by the American Canine Hybrid Club and the Designer Dogs Kennel Club. F1b Goldendoodles should thus be recognized by the same organizations as the Goldendoodle.

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Top 5 Unique Facts About F1b Goldendoodles

  1. F1b Goldendoodles are often used as guide, therapy, and assistance dogs because of their intelligence and trainability.
  2. No two Goldendoodles look exactly alike.
  3. They are generally healthy but can be prone to certain genetic conditions.
  4. Goldendoodles love water and are natural swimmers.
  5. They are known for their “teddy bear” appearance due to their curly coats and fluffy tails.

Do F1b Goldendoodles Make a Good Pet?

F1b goldendoodle standing on a fallen tree
Image Credit: Marcello Sgarlato, Shutterstock

Goldendoodles make excellent pets for many types of households. They are friendly, intelligent, and easy to train, making them suitable for both first-time and experienced dog owners. They get along well with children and other pets, and their low-shedding coats make them a good choice for people with allergies. However, they do require regular exercise and grooming to keep them healthy and happy.

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Conclusion

The F1b Goldendoodle is a charming and versatile breed that has won the hearts of many with its friendly nature, intelligence, and adorable looks. Whether you’re an active individual or a family with kids and other pets, an F1b Goldendoodle can make a wonderful addition to your home.


Featured Image Credit: Marcello Sgarlato, Shutterstock

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