Sheepadoodle Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Sheepadoodle is a cross between an Old English Sheepdog and a Poodle. It is a fluffy, playful, usually black-and-white dog with a gentle temperament and a coat that needs substantial upkeep.

Origins and appearance

The cross has been bred in North America since the late twentieth century and comes in several sizes. Sheepadoodles have a broad head, drop ears, a thick, shaggy or curly coat and a rounded outline. Typical colors are black and white, gray and white, and solid black.

Temperament

They are gentle, playful and affectionate. They tend to love people and are often good with children and other pets. They can be exuberant and clumsy. They dislike being left alone. Some retain herding instincts and may nudge or herd.

Exercise

They need an hour or so of daily exercise, with walks, play and swimming. Mental work matters. Many enjoy cooler weather.

Training

They are intelligent and eager. Use positive methods, short sessions and early socialization. Teach polite greetings and loose leash walking. They can be strong, so start early. See how to teach a dog to walk on a loose leash.

Coat and grooming

The thick coat needs brushing several times a week and professional grooming every four to eight weeks. See curly coat dog grooming guide. Mats form quickly. Clean the ears, trim hair around the eyes, trim nails and brush teeth.

Health considerations

A cross can inherit conditions from either parent. Topics include:

• Hip dysplasia. See hip dysplasia in dogs
• Ear infections. See dog ear infections
• Eye conditions, such as cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy
• Deafness, in some lines
• Skin allergies. See dog skin allergies
• Bloat. See bloat and GDV in dogs

Living with a Sheepadoodle

They suit families who want a gentle, fluffy companion and will budget for grooming. They do best with company and cool conditions. They are poorly suited to hot climates or long hours alone.

A typical day

A Sheepadoodle wants a morning walk, play, a rest, family time and an evening outing. Many are calm indoors.

Puppies and the first year

Puppies are fluffy, bouncy and mouthy. Begin socialization, handling and grooming early. Provide chew toys, and avoid heavy exercise while growing. See puppy socialization checklist.

Costs and commitment

Plan for food, professional grooming, training and vet care. See dog vet cost guide.

Seasons and travel

They tolerate cold well but overheat in hot weather. Provide shade and water. They travel well with a sturdy crate.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include assuming the coat is hypoallergenic, skipping grooming, leaving the dog alone and choosing a puppy from a seller who does not test parents.

Choosing a puppy or adult

Ask about hip, eye and hearing testing on both parents and meet them. Be wary of sellers who promise coat type.

The cost of fluff

A thick, curly coat means regular professional grooming for most owners, and costs add up over a dog's life. Some owners choose a short clip, which is easier to maintain, but still needs brushing.

Coat and hair in the eyes

Hair can cover the eyes, leading to irritation and trouble seeing. Trim around the eyes, keep the ears clean and dry, and check for debris in the coat after walks.

Daily care checklist

• A walk or play session, at cool times.
• Brushing and checking for mats.
• Ear checks and eye wiping.
• Training or puzzle games.
• Company and a cool place to rest.

Is it the right breed for you?

A Sheepadoodle suits social owners who want a gentle, fluffy companion and will pay for grooming. It may not suit hot climates. For a parent breed, see the Old English Sheepdog.

The takeaway

Sheepadoodles are gentle, playful and fluffy, and they need grooming, exercise, company and health-tested parents.