The medium Sheepadoodle is a cross between a Standard Poodle and an Old English Sheepdog, weighing between 40-60 pounds and standing between 18-22 inches tall.
Their coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling, with daily brushing and regular trimming necessary to keep it looking its best.
Medium Sheepadoodles are generally a calm and gentle breed, but they can be energetic and require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy.
They thrive on a balanced diet and need to be fed high-quality dog food twice a day, with a daily intake of 1,000-1,500 calories.
Appearance
Medium Sheepadoodles can weigh between 60 to 80 pounds and stand 18-27 inches tall.
Their face can be either square like an Old English Sheepdog or dome-shaped like a poodle, and they often have a patchwork of black and white markings that give them a panda-like appearance.
These markings can sometimes fade into gray as the dog ages, although some Sheepadoodles may be red and white.
Body
Sheepadoodles have a sturdy build, with a broad head that's domed-shaped and long ears that hang down to their shoulders.
Their size can vary, but a standard Sheepadoodle usually weighs between 60 to 80 pounds.
Sheepadoodles have a muscular and proportioned body, which makes them look strong and attractive.
Their height can range from 16 to 22 inches, depending on the type.
Mini Sheepadoodles, developed from crossing a Miniature Poodle and an Old English Sheepdog, generally weigh between 25 to 49 pounds.
Tiny Sheepadoodles, developed from crossing a Toy Poodle and an Old English Sheepdog, range from 10 to 24 pounds.
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Coat
The coat of a Sheepadoodle is a unique feature that sets them apart from other breeds. They can have a straight, wavy, or curly coat of hair on their body, including their face and tail.
Sheepadoodles inherit their coat from both parents, which is why they shed less hair than other long-haired breeds. This makes them a great choice for people with allergies.
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Their long hair coat helps them survive better in cold weather, but it's essential to trim their hair in hot weather to keep their bodies cool. Trimming their hair can make a big difference in their comfort level during the summer months.
It's generally hard to tell in advance whether a Sheepadoodle pup will have flat, wavy, or curly hair until they grow a little older.
Temperament & Intelligence
Sheepadoodles are known for their wonderful temperaments, which make them a joy to be around. They're a mixed breed, so their personalities can vary, but they're often described as playful, energetic, and sweet.
One of the best things about Sheepadoodles is that they love attention and children. They're great family dogs and enjoy the company of other dogs too. They might alert you to a stranger with a bark, but they're not typically aggressive.
Sheepadoodles are intelligent dogs that inherit a lot of their smarts from their Poodle side. They're easy to train, especially if you use positive reinforcement. They're also eager to please, which makes them a pleasure to work with.
As a medium Sheepadoodle owner, you can expect your dog to be active and curious. They need daily exercise to stay happy and healthy, so make sure you're prepared to take them on regular walks or playtime. They're also natural herders, so they might try to herd children or other animals โ just be patient and consistent.
Here are some key traits to expect from your medium Sheepadoodle:
- Easy to train
- Love children
- Non-shedding
- Hypoallergenic
- Great with other pets
- Even temper
- Eager to please
- Good watchdogs
With their friendly and outgoing personalities, it's no wonder Sheepadoodles are a popular choice for families. They're loyal and protective, but not aggressive, making them a great addition to any household.
Living Needs
Sheepadoodles are active dogs that require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. They need a good 30 minutes to an hour of physical activity daily, which can be achieved through activities like running, walking, or playing fetch.
Using a ball launcher for a game of fetch is a great way to burn off energy, as it allows your sheepadoodle to get some exercise while having fun. If your sheepadoodle enjoys the company of other dogs, a playdate in a fenced yard can be a great way for them to socialize and stretch their legs.
Sheepadoodles have thick coats, making them well-suited for cold-weather climates. However, in warmer climates, their owners can trim their fur a bit shorter to keep them cool and comfortable.
Living Needs
Sheepadoodles are a popular choice for many families, and for good reason. They're friendly, loyal, and make great companions.
One thing to consider when living with a Sheepadoodle is their grooming needs. They have thick, medium-length fur that requires regular brushing to prevent matting and tangling.
Sheepadoodles are also a relatively large breed, which means they need plenty of exercise to stay happy and healthy. A daily walk and some playtime should do the trick.
In terms of their living needs, Sheepadoodles are adaptable to different environments, but they do thrive in homes with yards where they can run around and play.
Here's a breakdown of the different types of Sheepadoodles and their characteristics:
Overall, Sheepadoodles are a great choice for families who want a loyal and loving companion.
Exercise
Sheepadoodles are active dogs that need regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. Their thick coats make them perfect for cold-weather climates, but in warmer climates, owners can trim their fur shorter and provide cool indoor spaces with plenty of water.
To keep your sheepadoodle exercised and entertained, try bringing them on your runs, neighborhood walks, and hikes through the woods. This will help them get the physical activity they need and also provide mental stimulation.
Using a ball launcher for a good game of fetch is a great way to burn off energy and engage your sheepadoodle's natural herding instincts. If your sheepadoodle enjoys the company of other dogs, a playdate in a fenced yard is a great way for them to socialize and stretch their legs.
Sheepadoodles typically enjoy land-based play, but it's best to avoid swimming as post-swimming cleanup can be time-consuming. In warmer climates, owners can opt for indoor activities like hide-and-seek, chase, and puzzle toys to keep their sheepadoodle entertained.
Here are some daily exercise recommendations for your sheepadoodle:
- Walks of at least an hour each day, whenever the weather permits
- Time spent in a secured yard to play, run, and explore every day
- Indoor activities like hide-and-seek, chase, and puzzle toys when the weather doesn't allow for outdoor exercise
Care
As a medium sheepadoodle owner, you'll want to prioritize their grooming needs. Brush their coat frequently during the week to keep it in great condition.
Sheepadoodles can develop separation anxiety if left alone for too long, so it's essential to start training them early on. Start training them right away, even from the moment they get home, using positive reinforcement techniques.
Daily brushing is crucial to prevent tangles and dirt buildup in their thick, wavy coats. They should also get regular nail trimming, ear cleaning, and dental care to keep them healthy and happy.
A fresh viewpoint: Sheepadoodle Training
Potty Training Dogs
Potty training dogs can be a breeze, especially with breeds like Sheepadoodles that are known for being easy to train. They have an obedient nature and are really intelligent.
Sheepadoodles are dogs of habit, which means they can learn to go potty at specific times and in specific places with a little effort. With consistent training, you can teach them to go potty outside or in a designated area.
It's essential to establish a routine and stick to it, as Sheepadoodles thrive on predictability. This will help them learn when it's time to go potty and where they're supposed to go.
Training your Sheepadoodle to go potty can be done with a few efforts, and with patience, you can achieve great results. Sheepadoodles are capable of learning anything with the right training methods.
Grooming
Grooming is a crucial aspect of Sheepadoodle care. Sheepadoodles have thick, wavy coats that require daily attention to stay free of tangles and dirt buildup.
Regular brushing is a must to prevent matting and tangling. Brush your Sheepadoodle's coat daily to remove debris and prevent fur from becoming knotted.
Some Sheepadoodles need trimming once a month to keep their fur from growing over their eyes or getting too long to effectively brush. This is especially important during the spring and summer months when shedding is more pronounced.
Using a de-shedding comb can help minimize shedding during these seasons. It's also essential to keep their nails naturally trimmed through regular outdoor exercise.
Brushing their teeth regularly can help maintain healthy gums and clean breath. Alternatively, dental chews can be offered as a convenient and tasty option.
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Health Assessment
Medium Sheepadoodles are generally a robust breed due to their hybrid nature, which means they tend to have fewer health issues than their purebred parents.
However, they can still inherit some health problems from their parents, such as bloating, joint swelling and pain, Cushings or Addison's disease, and certain types of cancer.
Regular ear cleaning and trimming the hairs around their ears can help prevent ear infections, which can be painful and costly for your dog.
Sheepadoodles are prone to weight gain, so it's essential to organize healthy activities and take your dog for a daily walk.
Here are some common health problems associated with Sheepadoodles:
- Bloating
- Hip Dysplasia
- Joint Issues
- Addisonโs Disease
- Sebaceous Adenitis
- Renal Disorder
- Von Willebrand Disease
- Epilepsy
- Dilated Cardiomyopathy
- Patellar Luxation
- Patent Ductus Arteriosus
- Mitral Dysplasia
- Tricuspid Dysplasia
- Allergies
If you notice anything strange about your dog's behavior, seek medical help immediately, as it can be extremely dangerous.
Owning a Dog
Sheepadoodles can be good with kids, making them a decent pet choice for families. Supervision is usually a good idea until the kids are old and big enough to maintain control of the dog.
They are protective of all family members, even the kids, but not aggressively so. This means they'll look out for everyone in the household.
Sheepadoodle puppies are easy to train as they have an obedient nature and are really intelligent.
Owning a Dog
Owning a dog requires more than just providing basic needs, it's a big responsibility that involves feeding, exercising, training, and grooming your pet regularly.
Sheepadoodles, in particular, are intelligent dogs that are easy to train, especially when they're puppies. They have an obedient nature that makes them learn quickly.
Supervising your kids when they're around Sheepadoodles is a good idea, especially when the kids are young. This is because Sheepadoodles may try to herd them, so it's essential to ensure the kids know how to interact with the dog safely.
Sheepadoodles are dogs of habit, which means they can be easily trained for potty as well. With consistent effort, you can teach them to go to the bathroom outside.
As a responsible dog owner, it's crucial to consider the needs of your family, including the kids, when deciding to bring a Sheepadoodle home. They're protective of all family members, but not aggressively so, making them a great choice for families.
Finding Puppies and Their Cost
You can find Sheepadoodle breeders online, but make sure to do your research and choose a responsible and legal organization.
Sheepadoodle puppies can cost anywhere from $1000 to $3000, depending on the color and specific traits like eye color.
If you want a Micro Sheepadoodle, be prepared to pay an extra $500 to $800 more than the standard Sheepadoodle.
Adopting a Sheepadoodle can be a more affordable option, with prices ranging from $75 to $200, plus a dog license fee of around $10.
When adopting, be sure to check Petfinder for available Sheepadoodles and ensure the organization you work with is reputable.
Backyard breeders should be avoided at all costs, so make sure to visit a breeder's premises and meet the parents of the puppy before making a decision.
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Bernedoodles vs
If you're considering getting a Bernedoodle or a Sheepadoodle, you'll want to know the differences between these two breeds. Bernedoodles come in a wide variety of colors, unlike Sheepadoodles.
Bernedoodles have more mountain dog traits, making them better protectors and more energetic. They're like giant teddy bears, with fluffy paws, floppy ears, and shaggy faces. Sheepadoodles, on the other hand, are known for their jolly and fun-loving nature.
Sheepadoodles are amazing at emotionally connecting with people, making them great emotional support animals. Their loyalty and affectionate nature also make them perfect therapy dogs. Bernedoodles, while loving and loyal, don't quite have the same emotional support skills as Sheepadoodles.
If you're looking for a family dog that will adore your kids and guard your family, both Bernedoodles and Sheepadoodles are great choices. However, Sheepadoodles are particularly well-suited for this role due to their emotional support abilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
How big is a medium Sheepadoodle?
A Moyen Sheepadoodle typically weighs between 40-55 pounds, falling between the Standard and Mini sizes. This size range is also consistent with the Moyen Poodle, which is the French term for "medium" size.
What is the downside of sheepadoodles?
Sheepadoodles require regular social interaction and can develop anxiety and depression if left alone for extended periods, making them unsuitable for busy households. They thrive on companionship and need a family that can provide consistent attention and care.
At what age do sheepadoodles stop growing?
Sheepadoodles typically stop growing between 1.5 to 2.5 years old, with standard Sheepadoodles taking longer to mature than micro and mini varieties. This growth period allows their bones, joints, and muscles to strengthen for a healthy adult build.
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