The Sheepadoodle is a cross between the lovable Old English Sheepdog(OES) and the quick-witted Poodle. These dogs are smart, playful, and loving. Their fluffy coats are usually a mix of black and white, but they may also be solid black or in some cases, even gray. Sheepadoodles have a big build with an even bigger heart! They are playful, sometimes goofy dogs, with an easy-going demeanor and very affectionate nature.
Sheepadoodles are intelligent, but their Sheepdog ancestors have a tendency to be hard-headed. Poodles on the other hand, are whip smart and highly intelligent. The temperament of your Sheepadoodle will depend on which parent it favors more in this area. They are a loyal breed who thrives on the approval of their owners. Because of this, they are relatively sensitive to harsh tones. Try to use positive reinforcement during training to avoid hurt feelings.
This dog breed is moderately adaptable. Due to their exercise needs, they tend to be a better fit for homes with large yards. They can adapt to apartment living, as long as they get plenty of serious exercise every day. They tend to do best in moderate and cooler climates, but can adapt to other types. As with most dogs, they are sensitive to extreme heat and cold. Because they love their families and have a lot of energy, they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time.
Sheepadoodles typically live 12-15 years. The beauty of owning a mixed breed is that you can drastically reduce the chance of your dog inheriting genetic conditions due to the vast gene pool of the parents. They have a small chance of developing some of the health conditions common in the OES and the Poodle. These include bloat, hip dysplasia, and hypothyroidism. Proper diet and exercise along with the health of the parents play a large role in their overall health. This is why it is always important to ask your breeder about the health of the parents.
The Sheepadoodle is a highly intelligent dog that is eager to please their owners. This tends to make them obedient, fast learners who are a good fit for owners of any experience level. Although they are alert and natural watchdogs, they will have to be trained to bark at strangers. Because they seek the approval of their owners, they tend to be sensitive. Harsh scolding or tones can hurt their feelings and could cause them to be withdrawn or unresponsive to training. They respond best to positive ongoing training methods that are consistent.
The combination of the OES and the Poodle’s coats produces a very low shedding breed, great for living with people who have allergies. Their coats are thick, making them appear larger than life, and should be brushed thoroughly several times per week and trimmed every month or two.
In addition to their coats, their ears should be kept clean and dry, their teeth cleaned regularly, and their nails trimmed monthly.
The Sheepadoodle is an active breed that needs a lot of exercise to stay healthy and happy. This breed also thrives on quality time with their people. A good way to get their exercise in is to include them in activities like hikes, runs, and swims.
Sheepadoodles are a mix between the Old English Sheepdog and a Standard or Miniature Poodle. Their size varies depending on which breed of poodle they are crossed with.
- Standard Sheepadoodles will weigh 65-85 pounds and stand 18-27 inches tall.
Miniature Sheepadoodles will weigh 30-50 pounds and stand 17-20 inches tall.
A Sheepadoodle will typically live 12 – 15 years.
Figure Skaters Meryl Davis and Fedor Andreev own a Mini Sheepadoodle named Bilbo Baggins.
1.jpg)
