Deciding between two Doodles is one exhausting task. Especially when those Doodles are ‘Sheepadoodle and Aussiedoodle,’ the confusion is real.
Both Sheepadoodle and Aussiedoodle are spunky, adorable, and full of personality dogs. They combine the best aspect of Poodles and the other two parent breeds. However, when it is Sheepadoodle Vs. Aussiedoodle, the decision becomes very crucial.
Designer dog lovers are often confused when adopting a Sheepadoodle vs. adopting an Aussiedoodle. Both hybrids prove excellent family dogs; the real question is, “Which one is better”?
To find out the same, read the complete Sheepadoodle vs. Aussiedoodle guide below:
Sheepadoodle Vs. Aussiedoodle Breed Overview
Point of Comparison | Sheepadoodle | Aussiedoodle |
Parent Breeds | Old English Sheepdog and Poodle | Australian Shepherd and Poodle |
Height | 18 to 27 inches tall | 14 to 25 inches tall |
Weight | 65 to 85 pounds | 25 to 75 pounds |
Place of Origin | United States of America | Conflicting |
Breed Group | Hybrid | Hybrid |
Lifespan | 12 to 15 years | |
Nicknames | Sheep-a-poo, Sheeppoo, Sheepdoodle, and Sheepdogpoo | Aussiepoo, Australian Shepherd Poodle, or Aussiepoodle |
Sheepadoodle vs. Aussiedoodle Introduction
Sheepadoodle is a beautiful Doodle hybrid produced by cross-breeding an Old English Sheepdog and a Poodle. This active and intelligent dog is perhaps huge than many Doodles and has distinct color patterns. Sheepadoodles aren’t the most popular Doodles, but finding a reputed breeder for them isn’t difficult as well.
On the other hand, Aussiedoodle is a beautiful Doodle hybrid produced by cross-breeding an Australian Shepherd and Poodle. Aussiedoodles combine the best characteristics of both their parent breeds and therefore are classified as one of the most intelligent hybrids. These dogs are usually high on energy and are best suited for homes with large spaces.
Sheepadoodle vs. Aussiedoodle History and Origin
Sheepadoodles have been around for a long. This Poodle cross-breed was first bred and recognized in the 1960s. Originally Sheepadoodles were bred to serve with the United States Army’s military police. These dogs still possess some skills of their original breeding purpose; however, Sheepadoodles today are more domestic dogs. Sheepadoodles never really gained any fame as army dogs.
On the other hand, Aussiedoodles are relatively newer Doodles in the competition. This intelligent Poodle cross was first bred in the late 1990s or the early 2000s. Aussiedoodles came into the picture around the same time as Labradoodle, Bernedoodle, and Goldendoodle. However, these incredibly popular Doodles overshadowed Aussiedoodles.
Aussiedoodles’ origin story, though, isn’t very clear but slightly mysterious. Some claims suggest that Aussiedoodles were first bred in Australia, whereas others suggest their origin in Northern parts of Europe.
Sheepadoodle vs. Aussiedoodle Breed Characteristics (Size, Appearance, Coat, and Color)
Sheepadoodles are large Doodles that typically grow bigger than Aussiedoodles and many others. As an adult, a Sheepadoodle can grow 18 to 27 inches tall and weighs between 65 to 85 pounds.
On the other hand, an Aussiedoodle is typically a smaller Doodle. As an adult, an Aussiedoodle can grow 14 to 25 inches tall and weighs between 25 to 75 pounds. If compared, it is usually a Mini Sheepadoodle and a Standard Aussiedoodle that grows of the same size. A Mini Sheepadoodle may grow slightly lesser than a Standard Aussiedoodle but close enough for comparison.
In terms of appearance, Sheepadoodles are recognized for their broader head and snout. However, an Aussiedoodle will probably flaunt a leaner head and longer, thinner snout. Aussiedoodles, throughout their life, are generally lean and scrawnier, but that isn’t the case with Sheepadoodles. Another major difference in appearance that tells a Sheepadoodle and Aussiedoodle apart is ears. Sheepadoodles have larger, floppy ears, whereas Aussiedoodles have pointy ears.
When it comes to coats, both Sheepadoodle and Aussiedoodle have a very similar one. Essentially because they are a Poodle mix, both Doodles will have a wavy or curly coat. The coat type, texture, and feel, however, can differ within the breed depending upon their generation.
In terms of color, Aussiedoodle comes in more variations than Sheepadoodles.
Sheepadoodles are usually multicolored dogs and traditionally will have a black and white coat. However, some of them may flaunt a mix of white and one other color. On the other hand, Aussiedoodles can come in a range of colors, including brown, apricot, cream, black, white, chocolate, and a lot more.
Sheepadoodle vs. Aussiedoodle Grooming and Maintenance
Regardless of whether it is a Sheepadoodle or an Aussiedoodle, both hybrids require regular and focused grooming. The higher the percentage of Poodle genetics, the more curly hair the dog will have.
Both Sheepadoodles and Aussiedoodles have longer coats, though, which is very less shedding. Their longer coat demands require near-daily brushing. In addition, these dogs also require trips to professional groomers quite frequently.
Lack of brushing for both dogs can be disastrous, and they may end up with tangled or matted fur. In addition to regular brushing, using the right brush is also necessary, especially for desired results.
Sheepadoodle vs. Aussiedoodle Health and Lifespan
No dog is 100% healthy and thus, neither are Sheepadoodle and Aussiedoodle.
Some of the most common health complications that Sheepadoodles face throughout their life includes:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Joint Problem
- Skin Disorders
- Addison’s Disease
Whereas, Aussiedoodles are more likely to suffer from health complications like:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Retinal Atrophy
- Cataracts
Both Sheepadoodles and Aussiedoodle may suffer from mitigating genetic predispositions and other ailments. However, a healthy lifestyle, well balanced nutritious diet, and regular veterinary check-ups can help in preventing the same.
With a healthy and balanced lifestyle, a Sheepadoodle can live a 12 to 15 years long life easily.
On the other hand, Aussiedoodles are expected to live an average lifespan of 10 to 13 years.
Sheepadoodle vs. Aussiedoodle Training and Exercise Needs
Since Sheepadoodles and Aussiedoodles are two highly intelligent cross-breeds, training them rightfully can bring excellent results. Both hybrids have a reputation for excelling in training and obedience, and they can quickly catch into a routine.
The idea of training Sheepadoodles and Aussiedoodles requires Patience, persistence, and consistency.
In addition to keeping these dogs healthy, exercise is another important consideration. Daily exercise for 45 minutes to an hour is important to keep these Doodles healthy, calm, and positive. Daily physical and mental stimulation also means completely eliminating destructive behavior.
Aussiedoodles need slightly high-intensity exercises than Sheepadoodles.
Sheepadoodle facts that may surprise you
- Sheepadoodles have multiple nicknames like Sheep-a-poo, Sheeppoo, Sheepdoodle, and Sheepdogpoo.
- A Multi-Generation Mix Sheepadoodle is more hypoallergenic then a F1 Sheepadoodle.
- Sheepadoodles, though come in a lot of sizes, though they are always larger and bigger.
- Sheepadoodles have a long lifespan of 12 to 15 years, but they can live even more if given the right lifestyle.
- Sheepadoodles need regular ear cleaning, or they will likely develop an ear infection.
- Sheepadoodles are very active and thus not well suited for laid-back and lazy families.
- Sheepadoodles are vocal, but they don’t bark much.
Aussiedoodle facts that may surprise you
- Aussiedoodles are highly attention seekers and can do anything to get your attention.
- Their fluffy and soft demeanour makes Aussiedoodles look like soft toys.
- Aussiedoodles aren’t meant for an apartment lifestyle. They, instead, are well-suited for homes with large backyards and gardens.
- Since Aussiedoodles are very bouncy, it is important to keep fences high.
- Aussiedoodles are very intelligent.
- Aussiedoodles may have green or even amber-colored eyes due to a unique gene that affects their eye color.
- No two Aussiedoodles look the same.
Sheepadoodle Or Aussiedoodle Which dog is better?
Sheepadoodles and Aussiedoodles are similar but not the same. If you have a large open home and wish to have an active, curious dog, Aussiedoodles are the right choice for you. However, if you want a dog for an apartment lifestyle, you can trustfully go with Sheepadoodles.