Cross-breed dogs are becoming increasingly popular and the Aussiedoodle cross between a Poodle and an Australian Shepherd is no exception. With both of these breeds being smart, you can bet you’ll have an Einstein-level genius dog on your hands. Because of this, and the simple fact that Australian Shepherds are working dogs, it’s important to keep Aussiedoodles busy. Whether it’s bringing you things, or pulling a cart to help you, or actually herding animals (or children!), keeping these dogs busy will keep them from going on a destructive path from boredom.
Reasons to get an Aussiedoodle:
They like to share, but might not be the best at it.
They love to jump – all that energy!
They’re extremely sociable and affectionate. If you’re their person, everyone knows it.
They have a great work ethic. Thank you Australian Shepherd!
They love a good swim. I think we can “blame” the Australian Shepherd here, too.
Did I mention they love attention? You can almost always expect to wake up to your Aussiedoodle in your face. Or on it.
Potential Health Issues
Cushing’s Disease – see a vet if your Aussiedoodle shows signs of rapid weight gain, exercise intolerance, hair loss, skin pigmentation, or an increase in appetite.
Cranial Cruciate Ligament Rupture – surgery may be needed and this typically is seen when an Aussiedoodle lands awkwardly after a jump.
Pancreatitis – vomiting is the main sign when the pancreas is inflamed. An IV treatment is necessary.
Ivermectin Sensitivity – common in Australian Shepherds, this can be passed on to an Aussiedoodle and prevents the entry of medications to the brain and spinal cord.
Hip Dysplasia – while not easy to diagnose from any visual signs, it can be detected with an x-ray. It can result in hind lameness.
Diet and Exercise
Aussiedoodles require a lot of calories due to their energy level. Their recommended feeding schedule is two meals a day with plenty of grains, veggies, and meat. Try to walk your Aussiedoodle for at least an hour a day and avoid 4-D meat (meat derived from dying, dead, disabled, and diseased animals) as it is harmful to your pet.
Overall Personality and Genetics
Aussiedoodles are high-energy and tend to be child-friendly, though that is always up to good training and good owners. Given their need to work and keep busy, their intelligence, and their social needs, these dogs make excellent therapy dogs. Who doesn’t love a good cuddle?
The Aussiedoodle tends to be remarkably trainable, again likely from the intelligence of the Australian Shepherd and Poodle. It’s important to start training as soon as you bring your Aussiedoodle home. Also, when looking for an Aussiedoodle puppy, be sure to research the breeder and talk to them about what you’re looking for. They may be able to recommend the right puppy for you based on your desires and their puppies’ personalities. Keep in mind, too, that these dogs can get up to 70 pounds and live as long as 12 years. That’s just an average, of course. Your pup may live longer!
Another important thing to note about the Aussiedoodle is that their coats can vary from the Australian Shepherd’s long, straight hair to the Poodle’s loose curls and anywhere in between, so they’ll need some moderate grooming! Expect to be brushing every day or clipping that curly coat every couple of months in addition to oral health, nail trimming, and cleaning ears.
Learn more about Aussiedoodles