Do you want an ultra fluffy, cuddly canine friend to join your family? Don’t really know what kind of dog would be the best fit? Well then, meet the Sheepadoodle – a breed that’s melting the hearts of dog lovers all across the globe.
But what is a Sheepadoodle, and why is it such a popular pup? Let’s dive right in and find out.
What Is a Sheepadoodle?
A Sheepadoodle is a crossbreed – or designer breed – created by pairing a Standard Poodle with an Old English Sheepdog. It combines the best features of either parent into one adorable package.
A Short History of the Sheepadoodle
These mixed-breed dogs were originally bred in the United States back in the 1960s for the purpose of being a part of the US military’s guide and assistance dog program. The English Sheepadoodle was created with the hope that it would have the gentle, non-aggressive temperament of the Sheepdog combined with the Poodle’s high intelligence and trainability.
As it turns out, the new breed did have the desired traits and soon became one of the most popular assistance dogs in the US military. Many other guide and assistance dog organizations followed suit and began using Sheepadoodles as well.
Nowadays, Sheepadoodles are still prized for their amazing dispositions, but they’ve also become one of the hottest trends in the dog world – and it’s not hard to see why. These dogs make wonderful family pets and are loved by dog owners of all ages.
Sheepadoodle Traits and Basic Characteristics
Despite being a mixture of two very different dogs, Sheepadoodles have their own unique set of physical and personality traits that make them one-of-a-kind. While there may be slight variations from one individual dog to the next, in general, these pups tend to have the following features:
Size and Shape
The average size for the Sheepadoodle dog breed depends largely on the height and weight of the parents. While the Engish Sheepdog shows little variation in size, poodles come in three different sizes – Standard, Miniature, and Toy.
| Toy Sheepadoodle | Miniature Shepadoodle | Standard Shepadoodle | |
| Height | Around 15 inches | 15-22 inches | 22-27 inches |
| Weight | 10-20 pounds | 25-55 pounds | 55-85 pounds |
As a result, Sheepadoodles can range anywhere from 15 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder and 20 to 85 lbs in weight. But, the vast majority of these dogs fall somewhere in the middle of that range with a height of about 22 to 26 inches and a weight of 40 to 60 lbs.
In terms of build and facial features, they tend to take after the Poodle parent more than the Sheepdog. They have long, narrow muzzles, floppy ears, and large, dark eyes that are set far apart on their faces. Their tails are usually long and thin, and they have long legs in proportion to their bodies.
Coat Care and Features
The coat is one of the most defining characteristics of this breed. Most dogs have a thick, double coat with a soft, downy undercoat and a coarse outer layer. This combination results in fur that is both warm and fluffy. They’re usually born with white, black or grey fur, but their coats can lighten or darken as they age.
The amount of shedding depends largely on which parent the pup takes after more. If they have a higher percentage of Old English Sheepdog, they will likely shed a bit more. But if they have more Poodle in their genes, you’ll see fewer stray hairs laying around. Regardless, they’re among the dog breeds that shed the least.
When it comes to coat care, Sheepadoodles require regular brushing and grooming to prevent matting and tangles. They also need to be clipped or trimmed every few months to keep their fur looking neat and tidy.
Temperament and Personality
The Sheepadoodle temperament is a real winner. These dogs are gentle, loving, friendly and extremely intelligent – making them the perfect family pet. Their playful nature and boundless energy will keep you entertained for hours on end, and their affectionate side and constant emotional support will fill your heart with endless love.
Another defining feature of the Sheepadoodle personality is its obedience. They’re highly trainable and love nothing more than to please their owners. They’re also quick learners, so you won’t have any trouble teaching them new tricks or commands.
Exercise Needs
Given their boisterous and lively nature, Sheepadoodles need a good amount of exercise to stay healthy and happy. A daily walk or play session is a must, and they’ll also appreciate living in a home with a large yard to run around in.
Physical activity and social interaction are the pillars of this breed’s health, so you should provide both on a daily basis. If they lack either one, they’re likely to become bored or even depressed and anxious.
For those with busy schedules, regular visits to a dog park or doggy daycare can help make sure your pooch is getting enough exercise. Hiring a professional dog walker is another possibility, as these individuals are usually highly trained and experienced in working with all kinds of pups.
Health and Life Expectancy
A phenomenon known as ‘hybrid vigor’ often results in mixed breed dogs being healthier than their purebred counterparts. This is due to the fact that they have a more diverse gene pool, which gives them a better chance of avoiding hereditary health conditions.
Any negative recessive genes are often cancelled out by the positive dominant genes of the other parent, resulting in a strong and hardy pup. This is one of the reasons why mixed breeds are often considered to be the best of both worlds.
But even so, there are certain health conditions that Sheepadoodles may be more prone to than other dogs. Joint pain and swelling are common problems in this breed, likely due to their larger size. They may also be susceptible to eye issues such as cataracts and glaucoma.
The life expectancy of a Sheepadoodle is typically 12 to 15 years, which is about average for dogs of this size. However, with proper care and nutrition, they can live even longer.
Nutrition and Feeding
Speaking of nutrition, it’s important to feed your Sheepadoodle a high-quality diet that is rich in protein and other essential nutrients. Since they’re an active breed, they need plenty of fuel to keep them going throughout the day.
Dry foods that are specifically designed for large breeds are a good option, as they contain the right balance of calories and healthy ingredients. Just make sure to avoid any foods that are high in fillers or artificial additives.
When it comes to feeding, most Sheepadoodles will do well on two meals per day. Puppies, however, may need to eat three or four times per day to prevent them from getting too skinny. Plus, smaller meals are often easier on their delicate stomachs.
Finishing Thoughts
So there you have it, the answer to the question ‘What is a Sheepadoodle?’ explained in great detail. These animals make wonderful pets for those who are looking for a loyal and loving companion, as well as a playful and energetic partner to join them on adventures.
