Pointollie
Pointer Collie
The Pointollie is a hybrid dog breed, most commonly recognized as a mix between a Collie and a Pointer. However, some breeders extend this classification to include other combinations, like the Border Collie crossed with a Pointer or the German Shorthaired Pointer paired with a Collie. Although this breed remains relatively rare, its appeal seems to be growing in the United Kingdom. Typically, a Collie-Pointer mix produces a dog that is both composed and dignified, making it an ideal candidate for various roles, including watchdog, hunting companion, or exercise partner. That said, due to their sensitive disposition, these dogs need gentle training methods, along with plenty of positive reinforcement and socialization to foster their confidence.
Breed Origin
The Pointollie is a designer dog breed created by crossing a Collie, a large and nimble herding dog from the British Isles, with a Pointer, an active and athletic hunting dog often referred to as the English Pointer. The Collie has a storied past, although its precise origins are somewhat ambiguous. For centuries, these dogs were employed as sheepdogs in the rugged Scottish highlands, available in both rough and smooth coat types. Before they became favorites among English dog show enthusiasts, Collies were primarily bred for herding and safeguarding livestock, a task they performed with remarkable skill. Their popularity surged in England after Queen Victoria's visit to Scotland in the mid-1800s, particularly during the 1860s and 1870s. The official breed standard for Collies was established in 1886, the same year the Collie Club of America, Inc. was founded, marking one of the earliest American specialty clubs. The Pointer, often referred to as the English Pointer due to its refinement and prominence in England, is believed by many historians to have roots in Spain. While the complete ancestry of the Pointer is not fully established, it is thought to have been shaped by various breeds, including Spanish Setters, Foxhounds, Bloodhounds, Italian Pointers, Bull Terriers, and even Greyhounds. Traditionally, Pointers were used for hunting and signaling the presence of hares, enabling Greyhounds to chase and catch the prey. Today, they are primarily celebrated for their exceptional skills as bird dogs. It is important to note that while "Pointerollie" generally refers to a mix of the Pointer and Collie breeds, some breeders also use this term for Pointers crossed with Border Collies or Collies mixed with German Shorthaired Pointers, leading to distinctly different hybrids.
Breed Appearance
The Pointollie is a medium to large dog with a relatively slender build, usually reaching around two feet in height at the shoulder and weighing between 50 and 75 pounds. Due to the notable structural and aesthetic differences between its parent breeds, individual Pointollies can exhibit a wide range of appearances, even among siblings. Both parent breeds have well-proportioned heads, but the Collie typically has a wedge-shaped skull and a tapered muzzle that are narrower compared to the Pointer's features, which include round eyes. While brown is the predominant eye color, some Collies may inherit unique merle or glass-colored eyes. Ear shapes can differ significantly, with the Collie sporting small, upright, triangular ears, while the Pointer has longer, drooping ears. However, it is common to find Pointollies with medium-length ears that are positioned high on the head and may either fold forward or lie to the sides. Both the Pointer and the smooth-coated Collie have short, dense, and flat coats, although the Collie also possesses a thick undercoat. This hybrid may also inherit the longer, rough coat that is characteristic of Collies.
Care Routine
In many cases, grooming these dogs is relatively simple. They usually need baths only a few times a year, unless they get into something particularly messy. Breeds with short, sleek coats, such as the Pointer or smooth Collie, are easy to brush. On the other hand, those that have the longer fur of the rough Collie require more grooming time. Dogs with this type of coat, as well as those with medium-length fur and a thick undercoat like the rough Collie, should be brushed daily. This practice is vital not only for controlling shedding but also for preventing tangles and mats. Special attention should be given to the undercoat, as severe matting can harm the skin underneath.
Behavior & Temperament
The Pointollie is a dog that typically exhibits sensitivity and carries itself with a certain grace. With both of its parent breeds known for their gentle natures, it’s likely that the Pointollie will also possess a kind temperament. Consequently, early socialization is essential to avoid the emergence of timid or anxious behaviors. This breed is quite intelligent and does not do well in isolation or confinement for long periods, as these conditions can lead to excessive barking or destructive habits such as chewing and digging. Neither the Collie nor the Pointer is naturally aggressive or overly affectionate towards strangers or other animals; instead, they tend to maintain a polite and reserved demeanor. While many Pointollies are compatible with children of different ages, some may inherit a more anxious disposition from the Collie side, while others might display the lively nature of the Pointer, which could inadvertently knock over smaller kids. Therefore, it’s important to supervise all interactions closely. Additionally, this mixed breed may exhibit a touch of stubbornness from both parent breeds, but they generally respond well to calm and patient training methods, especially when food rewards are involved.
Play & Exercise
This lively and active crossbreed, influenced by the Collie, may have slightly reduced exercise demands, yet it still needs at least an hour of intense physical activity daily to maintain its health and fitness. For the best outcomes, it's advisable to break this exercise into multiple shorter sessions. Many Pointollies excel in pursuits such as tracking or herding, and they also appreciate extended walks or jogs. Given their high energy, this hybrid is not ideal for small apartments; they flourish in larger homes with yards where they can run and play freely.
Things to Know
Cups Per Day
2.5 Cups
Daily Activity
60 Minutes
Average Lifespan
15 Years
Origin
Unknown
Type
Crossbreeds
Size
Large
Origin Country
United Kingdom
Brush Frequency
Daily
Coat Texture
Straight
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Height & Weight
Weight
60 lbs (27 kg)Male: 65 lbs (29 kg) , Female: 55 lbs (25 kg)
Height
25 inches (64 sm)Male: 26 inches (66 sm) , Female: 24 inches (61 sm)
6 Months
37 lbs ( m 37 lbs, f 37 lbs )
19 inches ( m 19 inches, f 19 inches )
12 Months
50 lbs ( m 50 lbs, f 50 lbs )
22 inches ( m 22 inches, f 22 inches )
18 Months
55 lbs ( m 55 lbs, f 55 lbs )
23 inches ( m 23 inches, f 23 inches )
Eye Colors
Blue
Brown
Nose Colors
Black
Brown
Coat Colors
Sable
Fawn
Isabella
Brown
Black
