Aussiedoodle vs Australian Shepherd: Key Differences and Similarities

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Posted Oct 28, 2024

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The Aussiedoodle and Australian Shepherd are two popular breeds that often get confused with each other. However, they have distinct differences in their appearance, temperament, and grooming needs.

Both breeds are highly intelligent and trainable, but the Aussiedoodle is a crossbreed that can inherit the low-shedding trait from its Poodle parent, making it a great choice for those with allergies. The Australian Shepherd, on the other hand, is a purebred breed with a medium-length coat that sheds moderately.

The Aussiedoodle tends to be more energetic and playful, requiring regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. In contrast, the Australian Shepherd is a working dog that requires regular physical and mental activity, but can adapt to a variety of living situations.

Breed Comparison

Both the Aussiedoodle and the Australian Shepherd are intelligent breeds, known for their high energy levels and affectionate nature. They love spending time with their people and will keep you busy with their daily needs.

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The Aussiedoodle may be a bit goofier than the Australian Shepherd, but overall, they share many similarities in personality and needs. Both breeds require plenty of play and exercise each day.

You'll find that both breeds are perfect for active families or individuals who can provide the necessary physical and mental stimulation they need to thrive.

Price and Availability

When considering the cost of owning one of these breeds, it's worth noting that Aussiedoodles tend to be more affordable, with prices ranging from $700 to $1300.

The average price for a Miniature Australian Shepherd, on the other hand, can be significantly higher, ranging from $1000 to $2000.

If you're looking for a breed that's widely available, both Aussiedoodles and Miniature Australian Shepherds are considered commonly available dog breeds.

Here's a quick comparison of the prices and availability of these breeds:

History

The Aussiedoodle breed has a fascinating history that's still a bit of a mystery. It's believed to have originated in the Western United States, not Australia, despite its name.

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The Aussiedoodle is a relatively new breed, and its exact origin story is unknown. However, it's thought to have been created in the 1980s or 1990s by breeders who were experimenting with crossing Poodles with other breeds.

Poodles are a popular breed to mix with because they're low-shedding and hypoallergenic, making them a great choice for people with allergies. This is one of the reasons Aussiedoodles have gained popularity in recent years.

The Aussiedoodle's popularity has grown significantly over the last 10 years, and it's now considered a designer breed. Unfortunately, this has also led to some puppy mill schemes, where unscrupulous breeders take advantage of the demand for these dogs.

Here are some red flags to watch out for when buying an Aussiedoodle from a breeder:

  • A breeder offers multiple mixed breeds for sale.
  • A website states specific wait times for puppies.
  • A breeder offers to ship puppies.
  • A website has vague contact information.

By being aware of these potential scams, you can help ensure that you're buying from a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs.

Aussiedoodle Characteristics

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The Aussiedoodle's personality is a unique blend of its Poodle and Australian Shepherd parents. They're incredibly intelligent, known for their loyalty and affectionate nature.

Aussiedoodles are big fans of hanging out with people, especially their own, and can become a bit clingy. They thrive on attention and will follow you everywhere.

These pups are also known for being silly and a bit clownish, with a goofy personality that's hard to resist. They're high-energy dogs that require plenty of play and exercise to keep them happy and healthy.

Exercise with an Aussiedoodle is a breeze, as they love long walks and hiking trips. You'll have a blast playing with your Aussiedoodle, and they'll keep you on your toes.

Health and Care

Aussiedoodles are generally healthy dogs, but like all animals, they can be prone to certain health issues. Some of these issues are inherited from their Australian Shepherd parent's side, while others come from their Poodle parent.

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You should be aware of potential health issues such as cataracts, Cushing's disease, drug sensitivity, hip dysplasia, pancreatitis, progressive retinal atrophy, and sebaceous adenitis. Regular veterinary check-ups and genetic testing can help identify these issues early on.

To keep your Aussiedoodle healthy, it's essential to provide regular exercise and a balanced diet. Proper weight management can help prevent hip dysplasia, which can be an inherited condition.

Care

Taking care of your Aussiedoodle requires attention to their physical health, grooming needs, and potential allergies. Aussiedoodles are generally healthy dogs, but they can be prone to certain health issues.

Regular veterinary visits are crucial to monitor your Aussiedoodle's health. The Aussiedoodle should have a complete physical check-up at least every 12-18 months, but preferably once per year.

Grooming is also essential for Aussiedoodles, as their coat can develop mats if not brushed regularly. Regular brushing between official grooming sessions is a must to avoid mats, and the amount of time needed between brushing depends on your particular dog's hair.

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Bathing routines vary based on your Aussiedoodle's activity level, but it's not as often as you might think. Use regular brush time as a chance to bond with your dog while checking their ears, teeth, and nails.

Aussiedoodles can be prone to allergies, especially food allergies and environmental allergies. Regular flea and tick prevention is also important to prevent flea allergy dermatitis.

Here are some potential health issues to watch out for in Aussiedoodles:

  • Cataracts
  • Cushing's disease
  • Drug sensitivity
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Pancreatitis
  • Progressive Retinal Atrophy
  • Sebaceous adenitis

Keep in mind that no dog is truly hypoallergenic, and it depends on how much Can f1 protein is present in an animal's dander, saliva, and urine, and how a person's immune system reacts to it.

Diet and Weight

When it comes to feeding your Aussiedoodle or Miniature Australian Shepherd, it's essential to get their diet right to prevent weight gain and obesity. The Aussiedoodle requires 3 to 5 cups of high-quality dry food a day, while the Miniature Australian Shepherd needs only 1 to 2 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.

Recommended read: Mini Aussie Size Chart

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To keep your Aussiedoodle at a healthy weight, you'll need to pay close attention to their food intake, as they have a high risk of gaining weight if not monitored. On the other hand, Miniature Australian Shepherds have an average risk for obesity.

Here's a comparison of the two breeds' food needs:

By understanding their unique dietary needs, you can help your Aussiedoodle or Miniature Australian Shepherd maintain a healthy weight and prevent obesity.

Lifestyle and Needs

Living with an Aussiedoodle requires careful consideration of their exercise needs. They are high-energy dogs that require at least 30-60 minutes of exercise per day to stay happy and healthy.

Exercise is of utmost importance for Aussiedoodles, as it prevents health issues down the road when they're older and less active. To ensure their minds are continuously moving, routine playtime and mentally stimulating toys are a must.

Aussiedoodles can adapt to lifestyle changes and different living environments, but they do best when a family member is at home during the day or if their workplace is dog-friendly. They can also do well in apartments as long as they have a good plan for plenty of exercise every day.

Because of their athletic Australian Shepherd characteristics, Aussiedoodles can jump high, which might influence the type of fencing necessary at home or leash training for public areas.

Adaptability and Independence

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Aussiedoodle dogs adapt to lifestyle changes and different living environments quite okay usually. This means they can adjust to a new home or a change in work schedule without too much fuss.

Miniature Australian Shepherd dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments. They're highly adaptable and can thrive in a variety of settings.

If you're away from home during the day, you'll want to consider a dog that can handle being left alone. Both Aussiedoodle and Miniature Australian Shepherd dogs do best when a family member is at home during the day or if their workplace is dog-friendly so they can take the dog at work.

This suggests that both breeds require some attention and interaction during the day, and may not be the best fit for people who are away from home for long periods of time.

Living Needs

Living in a small space? No problem! Aussiedoodles can thrive in apartments as long as they get plenty of exercise every day.

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Exercise is key for Aussiedoodles, and they can handle more strenuous activity than many dogs. They need regular walks, playtime, and mentally stimulating toys to keep their minds active.

Aussiedoodles are athletic dogs, thanks to their Australian Shepherd heritage, and can jump high. This might require special fencing at home or leash training for public areas.

To give you a better idea, here's a rough estimate of the exercise needs of Aussiedoodles:

As for sleeping, Aussiedoodles don't need too much sleep, but they do need some. They're high-energy dogs, after all!

Allergies and Grooming

The Aussiedoodle and Miniature Australian Shepherd are both popular breeds, but they have some differences when it comes to allergies and grooming. Both breeds require average grooming effort, which means they need regular brushing and nail trimming.

Both breeds are moderate shedders, so be prepared for regular vacuuming and lint rolling. They shed moderately, but not excessively, making them a good choice for people with mild allergies.

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The Aussiedoodle and Miniature Australian Shepherd have similar grooming needs, but the Aussiedoodle sheds more than the Miniature Australian Shepherd. If you're looking for a breed with low-shedding, you might want to consider a different breed.

Here's a comparison of the breeds' grooming needs:

Overall, both breeds require regular grooming, but the Aussiedoodle sheds more than the Miniature Australian Shepherd. If you're looking for a low-maintenance breed, you might want to consider a different breed.

A different take: What Is a Mini Aussiedoodle

Recognition and Suitability

The Aussiedoodle is a suitable breed for most people, but its strong herding instinct can be a concern, especially around young children. This is because the Aussiedoodle may try to herd smaller kids, which can lead to growling or snapping if the kids run away.

Older children, on the other hand, should get along great with the Aussiedoodle. This high-energy breed is an excellent match for those who live active lifestyles and can provide the necessary exercise and playtime.

The Aussiedoodle's high energy level means they need plenty of play and exercise each day, so be prepared to stay busy!

Recognition

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Recognition is a crucial aspect of determining suitability, and it's essential to understand how it works. In fact, research has shown that recognition is a key factor in determining a person's suitability for a particular role.

Recognition involves identifying and acknowledging the skills, knowledge, and experience that a person possesses. For example, a person with a degree in engineering and several years of experience in the field is more likely to be recognized as suitable for a engineering position.

Recognition can be subjective, and different people may have varying opinions on a person's suitability. However, by using standardized evaluation methods, such as assessments and tests, the recognition process can be made more objective.

A person's past performance and achievements can also play a significant role in recognition. For instance, a person who has consistently delivered high-quality results in their previous role is more likely to be recognized as suitable for a similar position.

Recognition is not just limited to formal education and work experience. Personal qualities, such as communication skills and teamwork abilities, can also be recognized as essential for a particular role.

Suitable for:

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The Aussiedoodle is a great breed for many people, but it's not suitable for everyone. It has a strong herding instinct that can be a challenge for families with very young kids.

If you live with older children, however, they'll likely get along great with the Aussiedoodle. This breed is also an excellent match for active families who love to stay on the go.

The Aussiedoodle requires plenty of play and exercise each day, so you'll need to be prepared to keep them busy.

Appearance and Temperament

Aussiedoodles are a diverse bunch, and their appearance is no exception. They can have a soft-but-scruffy tricolor coat with varying shades of white, beige, tan, blue, gray, red, brown, chocolate, and black.

Their expressive round eyes can be bright blue, soft green, light amber, or deep brown, and some dogs even have heterochromia, a condition that produces two eyes of different colors. Their ears are always wooly and floppy.

Aussiedoodles come in various sizes and weights, ranging from under 20 pounds and 14 inches tall for toy Aussiedoodles to 75 pounds and 25 inches tall for standard poodle-gene Aussiedoodles.

Temperament

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Aussiedoodles are friendly dogs and make the perfect companion breed. They are very loyal and love nothing more than spending time with their humans.

Their smart nature makes them easier to train, and they are naturally confident and sociable, even with other breeds of dog or other animals. They are a high energy dog breed, getting this trait from both their Poodle and Australian Shepherd parents.

Aussiedoodles are known to be playful, goofy, and a bit attention-seeking, which can make them clingy at times. They thrive on social interaction and require regular outdoor exercise to keep them happy and well-behaved.

Here are some key temperament traits to consider:

Overall, Aussiedoodles make great family dogs due to their loving and affectionate nature. However, they do require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.

Bite Characteristics

When it comes to bite characteristics, both Aussiedoodles and Miniature Australian Shepherds have relatively average bite forces. The Aussiedoodle's bite force ranges between 200 and 400 PSI, which is considered ordinary.

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The Miniature Australian Shepherd also has a bite force of between 200 and 400 PSI, making it similarly ordinary.

In terms of biting potential, both breeds have a low chance of biting someone, which is a reassuring fact for anyone considering bringing one of these dogs into their home.

Here's a comparison of the biting potential of both breeds:

Keep in mind that while their biting potential is low, both breeds may still nip or playbite, especially if they're not properly socialized or exercised.

The Aussiedoodle has an average tendency to nip, chew, or playbite, but it's not as high as the Miniature Australian Shepherd's tendency to do the same.

Appearance

Aussiedoodles come in a wide range of colors and textures, making each one unique. Their coat colors can vary from solid to tricolor, with shades of white, beige, tan, blue, gray, red, brown, chocolate, and black.

The genetics of their Australian shepherd and poodle parents play a big role in determining their coat patterns. The merle gene, for example, can create a soft but scruffy tricolor coat.

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Their eyes are truly striking, with bright blue, soft green, light amber, or deep brown being common colors. Some Aussiedoodles even have heterochromia, where one eye is a different color from the other.

Aussiedoodles usually have round heads, short muzzles, and big noses. Their ears are always wooly and floppy.

Toy Aussiedoodles, the offspring of toy poodles, are small and can easily fit on your lap. They weigh under 20 pounds and stand about 14 inches tall.

Miniature Aussiedoodles, bred with miniature poodles, are a bit larger, weighing around 30-40 pounds and standing 20 inches high.

Training and Care

Training an Aussiedoodle requires patience and consistency, as they are intelligent and eager to please. Aussiedoodles are relatively easy to train, thanks to their heritage from intelligent breeds like the Australian Shepherd and Poodle.

Positive reinforcement techniques are key to successful training. Use high-pitched praise or small food treats to reward good behavior. Avoid punishments, as they can stress out your dog and create aggressive behaviors.

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Australian Shepherds were bred to herd cattle, which can sometimes lead to herding behaviors in Aussiedoodles. Teach your dog not to herd young children or other pets, as this can lead to unwanted biting behaviors.

Training early is essential, and puppy preschools and obedience classes are great ways to socialize your dog and get advice on training. Expose your dog to other pets, different animals, and noises to help them develop good reactions.

Regular grooming is necessary to prevent matting in Aussiedoodles, especially if their fur has a poodle-like consistency. Brush your dog regularly, and consider professional grooming every couple of months.

Aussiedoodles are generally healthy, but they can be prone to certain diseases, such as cataracts, Cushing's disease, and hip dysplasia. Regular veterinary check-ups can help identify any potential health issues early on.

Here are some general guidelines for training and caring for your Aussiedoodle:

Mixed Breed Considerations

The Aussiedoodle is a relatively new breed, created by crossing a Poodle with an Australian Shepherd. This breed is not recorded to have been created by a specific person or at a specific time.

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Both the Aussiedoodle and the Australian Shepherd are high-energy breeds that need plenty of play and exercise each day. They're also very affectionate and love hanging out with their people.

The Aussiedoodle is a great choice for people with allergies because Poodles are low shedding and considered a hypoallergenic breed. This is one of the reasons why Poodles are often mixed with other breeds to create designer dogs.

Mixed breed dogs like the Aussiedoodle often have fewer health issues than dogs with two purebred parents. This is because they have a more diverse gene pool, which can reduce the risk of inherited diseases.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are aussies and aussiedoodles the same?

No, Aussies and Aussiedoodles are not the same, as Aussiedoodles are a mixed breed resulting from two different pure breeds. While they may share some similarities, they have distinct characteristics that set them apart.

Is Aussiedoodle a good family dog?

Yes, Aussiedoodles are a great fit for families due to their high energy levels and love for spending time with their humans. They thrive on family adventures and attention, making them a wonderful addition to active families.

Bryant Blick

Senior Writer

Bryant Blick is a talented writer with a passion for storytelling. With a keen eye for detail, he brings readers into the heart of the stories he tells. His writing career has taken off with a focus on exploring the rich tapestry of food culture.