Aussiedoodle vs Sheepadoodle: Which is Best for You? (Comparison & Quiz)
So you’ve decided to get a doodle, but now you’re struggling to decide between the Aussiedoodle vs Sheepadoodle? It can be a tough decision! These two spunky Poodle mixes are full of personality and are adorable!
Choosing a dog breed to add to your family is a very important decision to make. Getting a dog that doesn’t fit your lifestyle can be stressful for both you and the dog. The Sheepadoodle (Old English Sheepdog Poodle Mix) and Aussiedoodle (Australian Shepherd Poodle Mix) are both fun-loving dogs that could make a great addition to your family. Let’s sort out the similarities and differences to help you make an informed decision!
Should You Get an Aussiedoodle or Sheepadoodle? Take the Quiz!
While helpful, this quiz is primarily for entertainment purposes and should only be used as one point of reference in your dog search. Please read the entire article to fully understand your options and make the best decision possible!
Aussiedoodle vs Sheepadoodle: Puppy Selection
Availability / Popularity
These dogs rank fairly similarly in a popularity contest. Neither breed is quite as popular as a Goldendoodle or Labradoodle, but they outrank other poodle mixes like the Huskydoodle or Bordoodle. Just because they’re not as common doesn’t mean they’re any less cute! That being said, while it may be more challenging, it shouldn’t be extremely difficult to find a breeder for either the Aussiedoodle or Sheepadoodle.
Of course, it isn’t just about the breed you choose, but also the breeder. A reputable breeder can make a huge difference in the health and happiness of your new dog.
Don’t forget to consider adopting from local rescues and shelters. While both these breeds may be a challenge to find due to their high-demand and relative rarity, it’s worth checking!
Both the Aussiedoodle and Sheepadoodle have a litter size that averages between 5-6. This is more consistent than other doodle breeds, which can vary from 2-10 puppies per litter.
Price
These doodle breeds tend to be a bit pricey. Price can vary depending on which state you buy in, breeder reputation, size, or coloring. For example, in most cases, Mini Sheepadoodles and Aussiedoodles are more expensive than the Standard sizes of these breeds.
There is little difference between the Sheepadoodle vs Aussiedoodle when it comes to price. Aussiedoodles and Sheepadoodles usually start around $2,000 to closer to $4,000 at the higher end.
Sheepadoodle vs Aussiedoodle: Appearance
Size
There is a big range of Sheepadoodle sizes. The sizes depend on which size the Poodle parent is. A Toy Sheepadoodle weighs in below 25 pounds, a Mini Sheepadoodle between 25-50 pounds, and a Standard Sheepadoodle between 50-85 pounds if not more!
Aussiedoodles are consistently smaller in size. This breed also comes in three sizes. The smallest, the Toy Aussiedoodle weighs between 10-20 pounds, while the Standard Aussiedoodle weighs between 45-70 pounds. The Mini Aussiedoodle is sized in between the Toy and Standard Aussiedoodle.
Appearance
In addition to the size differences, there are some physical traits that differ between the Aussiedoodle vs Sheepadoodle. Sheepadoodles will generally have a broader head and snout while the Aussiedoodle will have a leaner head and longer, thinner snout. The Aussiedoodle is generally leaner throughout. Another difference is their ears. Due to the perky Australian Shepherd ears, Aussiedoodle’s ears may be more triangular in shape, while the Sheepadoodle will have bigger, more floppy ears.
Colors
Sheepadoodles are typically multi-colored with a mix of white and one other color. Traditionally, this is white and black. Aussiedoodles have a little more variation in their coloring, with brown, apricot, cream, black,white, chocolate, and more all being possibilities. Many Aussiedoodles are bred to have the coveted Blue Merle color pattern which is highly sought after.
Aussiedoodle vs Sheepadoodle: Grooming & Maintenance
Coat
The Sheepadoodle vs Aussiedoodle are very similar when it comes to their coat. Essentially they’re both a Poodle mixed with a longer haired herding dog, creating a fairly similar coat consistency. The coat is highly influenced by the generation. The higher percentage of Poodle in their DNA the curlier the coat will usually be, and the less they will usually shed.
For example, in the F1 (50/50) Aussiedoodle generation or Sheepadoodle generation, their coats could be straight, wavy, or curly. Generations with a higher percentage of Poodle in them, like the F1B (75/25) or F1BB (87.5/12.5) Aussiedoodle or Sheepadoodle, you’ll see much more consistently curly coats.
Regardless of which you choose, the Sheepadoodle vs Aussiedoodle, both require frequent grooming. The long hair of the Old English Sheepdog or the Australian Shepherd mixed with the curls of a Poodle means that a lack of brushing could be disastrous. Extra attention should be given to doodles with a higher percentage of Poodle in them, as the curlier coat can easily get matted.
Preventing matting is achieved with frequent brushing. To prevent matting and subsequent irritation and sores, the Aussiedoodle and Sheepadoodle need brushed, at minimum, every other day.
Many owners of an Aussiedoodle or Sheepadoodle report that even though they’re super strict about brushing their dog regularly, they still end up with mats. My #1 recommendation to this problem is changing the brush you use. Sometimes you need more than a typical off-the-shelf brush available at your local pet store. My favorite brush is the Chris Christensen Big G Slicker Brush. Since I started using this brush on my doodle, he hasn’t had a single mat. It’s more expensive than a typical brush, but trust me, this is worth every penny!
The Sheepadoodle vs Aussiedoodle are both considered allergy-friendly, but neither is considered hypoallergenic.
One parent, the Poodle is hypoallergenic, but the other parent, either the Australian Shepherd or the Old English Sheepdog are not. Therefore, when mixed together, there is the possibility that they may still shed. Essentially, if both parents aren’t hypoallergenic, there is no guarantee the offspring will be.
If you’re not worried about allergies, but just don’t want your house covered in dog hair there is good news! The Sheepadoodle or Aussiedoodle shed typically less than a purebred Australian Shepherd or Old English Sheepdog would!
We previously brought up generations and mentioned how they affects the coat of the puppy. This comes back into play once again when it comes to allergies and shedding.
The more Poodle in the doodle, the more likely they are to be hypoallergenic and non-shedding. If you’re an allergy sufferer, here are the best generations for you in order from best to worst: F1BB, F2BB, F1b, F2b, F1/F2/F3.
Although the F1BB or F2BB should be better for allergy sufferers, there isn’t any way to 100% guarantee or predict genetics. That means that an F1BB may still shed and an F1B may not at all.
As you can see, sometimes genetics can be a bit of a gamble.
Sheepadoodle vs Aussiedoodle: Temperament
Personality
Both the Aussiedoodle vs Sheepadoodle are high energy, intelligent dogs. While they are both loving, loyal, and lively, they can both be stubborn and have a mind of their own. For this reason, other doodle breeds may be slightly better options for first-time dog owners.
Both of these breeds make for excellent watchdogs thanks to their Australian Shepherd and Old English Sheepdog lineages. While they’re alert and protective, neither breed has aggressive tendencies.
Both the Sheepadoodle vs Aussiedoodle are very loyal and family-oriented. Sometimes this can come across too much and result in a bit of separation anxiety. These breeds are happiest when they’re around their humans, and families who aren’t home often should think twice before considering either the Aussiedoodle or Sheepadoodle.
Activity Level
Activity level isn’t a big differentiating factor between Aussiedoodle vs Sheepadoodle. Both of these dogs have a herding dog background, so they’re used to running around a bunch. A minimum of an hour of exercise is needed for both of these breeds to stay happy and healthy.
As these dogs are both very intelligent, it is important to switch up the daily exercise to increase stimulation and keep them interested and engaged.
Trainability
The Aussiedoodle and Sheepadoodle come from a line of herding dogs, so they enjoy having tasks to complete. These dogs are both very intelligent, which can be a blessing, and a curse! They may be a bit stubborn and need a firm and confident leader to teach them. The Sheepadoodle may take a bit longer to train than other doodle breeds, simply because of their independent personality. Aussiedoodles are quick learners, but if they’re not given enough mental stimulation can take out their energy in destructive ways.
Especially due to their working dog background and high energy levels, adequate mental stimulation can help keep your dog entertained, and help wear them out! This could include walks in different locations so they can smell new things, teaching them new tricks, or having them engage in fun activities, such as snuffle balls. If you’re looking for more training and mental stimulation ideas, check out this Brain Training for dogs program!
Good with Kids & Pets?
Both the Aussiedoodle and Sheepadoodle are known for being loyal and affectionate towards their family. These dogs may not be suited for families with very young children. The herding history in them makes them prone to try to herd small children or animals. This may include some circling, nipping, or bumping into the subject they’re trying to herd. Obviously, this may be upsetting to other animals or small children. This is simply a natural instinct and isn’t intended in an aggressive way. The good news is that this can be reduced or avoided with proper training and socialization.
Aussiedoodles tend to have a bit more of a prey drive than Sheepadoodles do. This is also something that can be reduced with training, but it may still be an additional hurdle you’ll need to cross if you have other small pets.
Aussiedoodle vs Sheepadoodle: Health & Wellness
Life Span
In the debate between a Sheepadoodle vs Aussiedoodle, this is one area where the Sheepadoodle pulls ahead. The Aussiedoodle averages a lifespan of 10-12 years. Sheepadoodles tend to live a little longer and their average lifespan ranges between 12-15 years.
Potential Illnesses
Many people regard mixed breeds, such as doodles, as being healthier than purebreds. Purebreds may be more prone to developing hereditary conditions than mixed breeds. This is because doodles have more genetic diversity. Despite their decreased risk, there is still the possibility of developing conditions from either parent.
Common Sheepadoodle health problems include hip dysplasia, Addison’s disease, diabetes, bloat, and sebaceous adenitis.
Aussiedoodles have a range of health issues of their own including, but not limited to: cushing’s disease, cranial cruciate ligament rupture, epilepsy, hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, and pancreatitis.
We all want our doodles to be healthy and happy, but despite our best efforts, sometimes our doodles develop a health condition, or get in an accident that requires urgent care. For that reason, I recommend all new dog owners make it a priority to get pet insurance. Healthy Paws, the pet insurance company that I use, covers up to 90% of veterinary bills for accidents and injuries. I love the peace of mind, great rates, and phenomenal coverage.
