A Sheepadoodle is a cross between an Old English Sheepdog and a Poodle. Originally bred as U.S. military dogs, these curly-haired pups have become popular family dogs.
These dogs are playful and loving, so they’re ideal for families and people who can provide exercise and attention, says Karah Wilkes, certified professional dog trainer (CPDT-KA) and Director of Training at ABCs Puppy Zs.
Read on to learn more about Sheepadoodles and if they’re the right dog for you. We’ll discuss their history, lifestyle, and health with insights from experts.
Breed Characteristics
Key
- Low
- Medium
- High
- Origin: United States
- Size:
- Weight: 50-80 pounds
- Activity level:
- Barking/howling level:
- Good with dogs: yes
- Good with kids: yes
- Good with cats:
- Good for first-time dog parents: yes
- Shedding:
- Shedding: Seasonal
- Hair type: Curly or wavy
- Grooming level:
- Training level:
- Drooling level:
Origin And History
The United States Army first bred Sheepadoodles in the 1960s as military dogs. They were intentionally bred for their intelligence, loyalty, and bravery.
Since Sheepadoodles are also playful, they were eventually retired as military dogs. In the early 2000s, they became more popular family dogs in the US and UK.
No dog is truly hypoallergenic, but Sheepadoodles don’t shed as much as many other dog breeds. So, people with allergies often have better success with Sheepadoodles than other types of dogs, which helps explain some of their popularity.
Currently, the American Kennel Club (AKC) doesn’t officially recognize Sheepadoodles as an official dog breed.
Appearance
Like any other mixed breed, Sheepadoodles can have a very different appearance from dog to dog. Some look more like a Sheepdog, while others look more like a Poodle. Others look like a mix of the two.
That said, most Sheepadoodles have fluffy, wavy hair. Often, their hair is black and white, making them resemble panda bears. However, they can come in other colors, including brown, white, tricolor, merle, and solid black.
A full-grown standard Sheepadoodle is usually 50 to 80 pounds and about 16 to 22 inches tall, whether male or female, says Dr. Nita Vasudevan, veterinary consultant for Embrace Pet Insurance. Miniature Sheepadoodles, on the other hand, might weigh between 25 and 50 pounds, and toy Sheepadoodles are smaller, only weighing about 10 to 25 pounds.
Personality
“Sheepadoodles tend to be very energetic, playful, loving, and cuddly,” Wilkes says. “They’re also highly intelligent and require training and socialization as puppies.”
A Sheepadoodle’s affectionate temperament also means they get along well with people, making them great family dogs, especially if you can give them the attention they need.
Wilkes says a Sheepadoodle can also be a valuable therapy or service dog if they get the right training and socialization.
According to Wilkes, Sheepadoodles usually get along well with small children and other animals. However, their herding instinct can cause them to do things like nip, chase, and jump, so you may need to focus on these unwanted behaviors in training!
Ideal Environment
Sheepadoodles are excellent family dogs, and they do well with first-time dog parents who understand and can meet their requirements. However, Wilkes explains that they do best with a family who’s often at home and can dedicate time each day to training and interacting.
While a large, fenced-in yard is preferable for Sheepadoodles, Wilkes says they can also do well in a smaller space if you give them daily mental and physical stimulation. They may also do all right with apartment life, even living close to neighbors. They don’t bark much but can make great watchdogs.
“Because Sheepadoodles are intelligent, high-energy dogs, they need daily exercise and stimulation,” says Wilkes. “Their playful nature is also suitable for families with children. However, they may require professional training if you can’t prevent herding behaviors on your own.”
According to Joey Morris, dog trainer and animal behaviorist at OverWatch K9 Academy, Sheepadoodles love being with people. While they may do all right during the day at home alone while you work, it’s important to spend time with them daily.
Some Sheepadoodles may experience separation anxiety, which you can address with calming treats, anti-anxiety medications, and frequent dog walks. If these strategies don’t help, your vet may have additional guidance to help ease your dog’s distress.
Training
Sheepadoodles experience the majority of their mental development between the ages of 8 weeks and 8 months, Morris explains. However, their puppy phase may last until they’re about a year and a half old.
“Obedience training can start as soon as you bring your Sheepadoodle puppy home,” Morris says. “Their energy level can range from low to high, which helps determine how much training they’ll need.”
Standard behavior training, nose work, dog training classes, and agility can also help Sheepadoodles learn desired behaviors and get the mental and physical stimulation they need.
Morris also suggests exposing and socializing your Sheepadoodle with other people and dogs as soon as your vet gives you the go-ahead. Exposure to different environments lets them experience different objects and noises and interact with others. This can help them feel comfortable in new settings and reduce herding behaviors.
Grooming Needs
Sheepadoodles generally don’t shed much. Therefore, they’re considered hypoallergenic dogs and good for people with allergies.
However, Delicia Kraayenbrink, a Sheepadoodle dog breeder at I Love My Sheepadoodle, explains that if you live in a colder climate, your Sheepadoodle may shed some in the spring when the weather starts to get warmer.
“Sheepadoodles’ hair grows like humans, so it needs to be trimmed,” Kraayenbrink says. “It’s up to you how often you’ll cut their hair depending on your preferred length. Some Sheepadoodle parents like to have fun with different lengths and styles for their dog’s hair.”
You’ll want to bathe your Sheepadoodle about once a month, the recommended frequency for dogs with curly or wavy coats. However, more frequent baths may be necessary if your dog spends a lot of time active outside!
It’s easiest to take a Sheepadoodle to a professional groomer. If you want to groom your dog at home, you’ll need the following items:
- Dog-safe shampoo
- Absorbent towel
- Dog-safe wipes
- Dog hairbrush
- Nail clippers
- Dog-friendly toothbrush and toothpaste
- Hair clipper or trimmer
Health
Like any mixed breed, Sheepadoodles can inherit health issues from either parent, Dr. Vasudevan says.
“Sheepadoodles are predisposed to hip dysplasia, a genetic condition in which the hip joint doesn’t fit properly, leading to arthritis or pain over time,” explains Dr. Vasudevan. “They can also be at risk for bloat, a condition in which the stomach twists, trapping gas and food.”
Dr. Vasudevan suggests the following for lowering your dog’s risk of these health conditions:
- Get your dog from a reputable breeder who screens for health issues.
- Provide a balanced diet to meet your dog’s nutritional requirements.
- Make sure they get regular exercise to prevent or ease joint problems, bloat, and other concerns.
- Make regular vet visits to stay on top of health needs.
Regular vet visits can be expensive, it’s true—but pet insurance can help keep your costs manageable!
Getting A Sheepadoodle
Ready to find your Sheepadoodle?
You can buy or adopt a Sheepadoodle. Each option has pros and cons. For example, rescue dogs may be more affordable—and come with some training already. Dogs from a reputable breeder, on the other hand, may come with more background information about their health, training, and parents’ personalities.
If you buy a Sheepadoodle from a breeder, you’ll likely get a puppy. Rescue dogs can be of any age. Deciding on a puppy or an older dog depends on your lifestyle, as puppies require much more in-depth care during their first several months.
Before getting a Sheepadoodle, we recommend researching breeders or rescues and how to properly care for a dog, especially if you’re a first-time pet parent. Take your time to make sure you’re ready and that you’ve found the right dog for your family.
When you choose a breeder, ask plenty of questions. They should be happy to answer questions about the dog’s parents, lineage, and health—and they should be willing to show you where the mother and puppies live.
How much does a Sheepadoodle cost?
A Sheepadoodle from a breeder costs about $2,500. However, the price can vary depending on the dog’s pedigree, coat color, and the breeder.
It’s also important to consider the costs of being a dog parent, including upfront and routine expenses, like food, grooming, and veterinary care!
Alternative Dog Breeds To Consider
Sheepadoodles are great pets for most people and families, especially if you can provide regular attention, exercise, and training.
If a Sheepadoodle doesn’t seem right for you but you’d like a similar breed, these dogs may be a good fit:
- Toy Poodle: This smaller dog shares many traits and lifestyle needs with a Sheepadoodle.
- Labradoodle: This Poodle and Labrador Retriever mix is a friendly, energetic family dog.
- Old English Sheepdog: This is one of the Sheepadoodle’s parent breeds. They get much larger than Sheepadoodles, but they may have a little more chill!
Resources
- About Sheepadoodles. (n.d.). mysheepadoodle.com/about-sheepadoodles.
- Becoming recognized by the AKC. (n.d.). akc.org/press-center/articles-resources/facts-and-stats/becoming-recognized/
- Kraayenbrink, D. (2024). Personal interview.
- Morris, J. (2024). Personal interview.
- Vasudevan, N. (2024). Personal interview.
- Wilkes, K. (2024). Personal interview.
