Sheepadoodle
Crossbreed: Poodle × Old English Sheepdog
Other name: Sheepapoo
The Sheepadoodle is a cross between a Bobtail (Old English Sheepdog) and a Poodle. The Sheepadoodle, which looks somewhat like a giant sheep, is an affectionate, athletic, and fun-loving companion. Here's all you need to know about this adorable crossbreed.
The Poodle comes in four sizes (toy, miniature, medium and standard) and five different coat colours (black, white, grey, brown or apricot). They are very intelligent dogs who, despite their misleadingly fragile appearance, are actually very robust and resilient. Cheerful, playful, lovable and affectionate, Poodles can adapt to many different lifestyles.
A herder at heart, the Old English Sheepdog may try to herd their family members like sheep, always trying to gather everyone together. Today, this dog is mainly kept as a pet. They are very sweet and friendly, but not always docile, therefore needing an expert hand. A good guard dog but never aggressive, they are also a wonderful companion for children of all ages.
Poodle
The Poodle comes in four sizes (toy, miniature, medium and standard) and five different coat colours (black, white, grey, brown or apricot). They are very intelligent dogs who, despite their misleadingly fragile appearance, are actually very robust and resilient. Cheerful, playful, lovable and affectionate, Poodles can adapt to many different lifestyles.
Old English Sheepdog
A herder at heart, the Old English Sheepdog may try to herd their family members like sheep, always trying to gather everyone together. Today, this dog is mainly kept as a pet. They are very sweet and friendly, but not always docile, therefore needing an expert hand. A good guard dog but never aggressive, they are also a wonderful companion for children of all ages.
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Life expectancy |
The Sheepadoodle has a life expectancy of between 12 and 15 years |
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Temperament |
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Size |
Medium
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Adult size |
Female
Between 16 and 22 in
Male
Between 16 and 22 in
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Adult weight |
Female
Between 40 and 66 lb
Male
Between 40 and 66 lb
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Coat colour
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Black
White
Brown
Sand
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Type of coat
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Short
Long
Wavy
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Eye colour
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Brown
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Purchase price |
The Sheepadoodle costs between £1000 and £2000 |
As a crossbreed dog, the Sheepadoodle does not have a breed standard, so there are vast differences between Sheepadoodles in terms of appearance, character, and temperament.
Based on its name, it is easily confused with the Shepadoodle, a cross between a Poodle and a German Shepherd.
More details about the Sheepadoodle
Sheepadoodle: Origins and history
The Sheepadoodle is a crossbreed "designer" dog that originated in the United States .
Sheepadoodle: Characteristics
Sheepadoodles are extremely affectionate dogs, who love spending time with their family.
Sheepadoodles love participating in all kinds of activities, making them excellent companions to children. They excel at tracking activities, along with other outlets for their active natures.
Sheepadoodles may be active dogs, but they also know how to settle and be calm at home. With the right physical stimulation, they also enjoy moments of relaxation with their families.
Sheepadoodles are very intelligent. They love to use their brains, and often do very well in dog sports and brain games.
Sheepadoodles don't usually have a very strong prey drive. They typically prefer playtime over chasing small animals.
Sheepadoodles are typically social, affectionate dogs, but they may be slightly wary of new people until they gain their trust.
Sheepadoodles aren't known for their indepedence, usually preferring to stay close to their family.
Sheepadoodle: Behaviour
Sheepadoodles do not do well alone. They are happiest with their humans nearby.
Intelligent and eager to please, Sheepadoodles are very easy to train.
This crossbreed is not particularly vocal, but they may bark to alert their owner to the presence of a stranger.
Sheepadoodles don't typically have a tendency to stray. They prefer to stay close to their favourite humans.
Sheepadoodles may become destructive if bored or anxious. With the right training and stimulation, they are fairly calm companions.
Sheepadoodles can be greedy, if their daily food intake isn't carefully monitored. A balanced diet and plenty of exercise will keep your dog feeling happy and healthy.
Sheepadoodles are not natural guard dogs, though they may bark in the presence of a stranger.
Training a Sheepadoodle
Sheepadoodles are very intelligent dogs . They quickly understand what is being asked of them, but whether or not they actually follow commands often depends on which parent breed they are more similar to in temperament. If they inherit more Poodle traits, they usually excel during training sessions. The Old English Sheepdog's temperament is a bit more aloof and stubborn. Sheepadoodles will inherit a certain level of sensitivity from both parents.
With calm but firm communication, owners of these dogs can help Sheepadoodle puppies grow into calm, confident companions. Their playful personalities and love of food can be particularly helpful during training.
One thing families should keep in mind, is that a Sheepadoodle can develop a herding instinct due to the Old English Sheepdog genes. Instead of sheep, they may start trying to “herd” children. Alternative activities – along with sufficient rest periods – can help manage this behaviour
Sheepadoodle: Lifestyle
Sheepadoodles do best when they have a garden to enjoy. They can adapt to apartment living, provided they're offered enough mental and physical stimulation on a daily basis.
Sheepadoodles are active, energetic dogs. They need the right balance between exercise and rest to grow into well-balanced adult dogs.
Sheepadoodles are usually calm and quiet travel companions. Getting them used to new environments at a young age will help them feel comfortable on the move.
Breed compatibility Sheepadoodle
Sheepadoodles can live with cats, provided they're well socialised at a young age.
Sheepadoodles typically get along with other dogs. Many enjoy having a resident four-legged friend at home.
Sheepadoodles are particularly good around children, making them wonderful family pets. Owners should always be mindful of the potential herding instincts that may come from the Old English Sheepdog parent breed, providing alternative outlets for this behaviour.
The gentle and affectionate nature of the Sheepadoodle makes this crossbreed highly compatible around older members of the family.
Sheepadoodles make an excellent choice for first-time owners, thanks to their affectionate, friendly personalities.
Sheepadoodle: Purchase price
If you're interested in sharing your life with a Sheepadoodle, it's important to do the right research when it comes to finding a breeder. Health testing is essential, and you may find there are long waiting lists for the perfect puppy.
Alternatively, you may find a crossbreed available for adoption at your local rescue centre.
Sheepadoodle: Shedding
Average
Sheepadoodles may shed, depending on the coat they inherit from their parent breeds. Regular grooming may be required, particularly if your dog inherits more of the Old English Sheepdog coat.
Sheepadoodle: Grooming
If your Sheepadoodle has a long Old English Sheepdog coat and a dense undercoat, they are likely to need a lot of grooming. Regular brushing will help ensure the coat remains soft and tangle-free.
Sheepadoodle: Health
Sheepadoodles are typically fairly hardy, boasting good health overall.
Sheepadoodles can struggle in very hot weather, particularly if they have a very dense coat. Caution is always advised, ensuring your dog has access to plenty of shade and fresh drinking water.
Sheepadoodles cope better in colder weather, thanks to their dense coats. This means they still enjoy outdoor activities, even when the temperature drops.
Sheepadoodles require a balanced diet and plenty of exercise to maintain a healthy weight.
Unfortunately, Sheepadoodles are not immune to diseases and health concerns that commonly affect the parent breeds . This may be more likely if breeders haven't tested the parent dogs for hereditary diseases .
The Sheepadoodle is susceptible to the following diseases:
- Diabetes
- Hip dysplasia
- Addison's disease (adrenal insufficiency)
- Gastric torsion
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