Aussiedoodle: Your Complete Guide
The aussiedoodle is a mixed breed that combines the Australian shepherd and poodle. A versatile breed in several coats and colors, aussiedoodles are a great companion for people looking for a friendly, smart dog that can keep up with their active lifestyle.
They make great pets for folks living in homes or places with a good bit of space but may be a poor choice for those in apartments.
If you are in the market for the adorable fluffball, some facts and guidelines should be learned before adoption. In this article, we will cover the breed in extensive detail and everything you need to know before bringing in your new roommate.
Quick Look at the Aussiedoodle
Below is a quick glance at this special breed in terms of its physical characteristics, lifespan, temperament, and grooming needs.
| Weight/Height | 25 – 75 pounds and 10 – 20+ inches |
| Coat Type | Medium curly or rippled coat |
| Grooming Needs |  |
| Shedding | |
| Temperament | 3-5 words explaining the breed’s average personality. |
| Good With Kids |  |
| Good With Other Animals | |
| Intelligence |  |
| Easy to Train | |
| Energy Level | |
| Barking Habits | |
| Lifespan | 10 – 14 years |
What Is the History of Aussiedoodles?
The aussiedoodle is a newer breed, originating just a few years before the new millennium. They originate from North America and result from a crossbreed between the Australian shepherd and poodle. Dogs of the “doodle” variety were in high demand at this time, and similar breeds, such as labradoodles and goldendoodles, also came from this era.
Crossbreeds became more popular when people realized they had positive characteristics that extended beyond their ancestral breeds. Things such as lessened health problems give them longer and more fulfilling lifespans than the average purebred, and they also can be hypoallergenic.
However, this difference is not a golden rule, and the allergic reactions and veterinary visits you will have to endure in a pet’s lifetime are entirely based on the individual dog.
In any case, the aussiedoodle presented many positive aspects for owners, and their stunning and unique appearance was an easy sell for anyone who got a look at the charming pooches. In the short time they have been around, aussiedoodles have become incredibly popular among dog owners due to their appearance, intelligence, and amiable nature.
What Do Aussiedoodles Look Like?
Aussiedoodles have a coat that looks like the best bedhead you could ever hope for. Their thick mop of curly or wavy hair can range from medium to medium-long, depending on their parents. Their size can also vary wildly, with some getting above twenty inches on all fours. They come in a myriad of different coat colors that genetic factors will also determine.
This breed loves to stand out and is not easily categorized by appearance. They can have a big fluff of fur that looks like a loose hairstyle around their head or a shaggy, short coat that frames their friendly face. Their one distinguishing fact is that they almost always have multiple colors throughout their fur.
When it comes to aussiedoodle coloring, variety abounds. The rarest variation of aussiedoodle is red, which shades the dog in a beautiful auburn hue.
What Size Is an Aussiedoodle?
Aussiedoodles come in a wide variety of sizes, though they will typically range somewhere in the middle. For those looking for larger dogs, some breeders specialize in bigger aussiedoodles. Normally, they will sit between ten to fifteen inches and weigh as little as twenty pounds or as much as seventy.
What Is an Aussiedoodle Coat Type and Length?
The coat of an aussiedoodle will usually be curly or wavy, with rarer variations present. The coat can be shaggier than expected, though it is never absurdly lengthy. On average, the aussiedoodle will have a medium-length scruff of fur around its body that is lightly curled or winding.
What Is an Aussiedoodle’s Temperament?
Aussiedoodles come from two of the smartest breeds in the canine kingdom. The Australian shepherd and poodle are intellectual prodigies, and their ancestor’s keen intellect is apparent in most aussiedoodles. This aptitude will make training more manageable, though they can get restless if left alone or not properly trained at an early age.
They are exceptionally sweet animals that are happy to be fast friends with everyone, though they tend to be more keen on their immediate family and owners. They are good choices for people with kids and can be easily taught to coexist with dogs if they aren’t already jumping at the nearest pooch.
If you want a bright, affectionate, and friendly dog, the aussiedoodle is a wonderful choice.
Are Aussiedoodles Good With Kids?
The aussiedoodle is a great dog to have with kids as long as the child is taught the basic guidelines for handling and interacting with a dog. They love being around others, and if they are socialized with the kid early, they will be lifelong pals. However, They have a very energetic nature, and smaller children should be monitored to ensure they aren’t accidentally injured.
Are Aussiedoodles Good With Other Animals?
The aussiedoodle is not known for bullying smaller animals, though they should be brought into a house with more diminutive pets with a firm, gentle hand. They tend to get along with most pets they meet as long as the interaction is favorable, but meeting the other animal at an earlier age is always advantageous.
If you own a cat, parakeet, or exotic lizard, try to get the dog to meet it in a monitored and controlled environment where both can get to know the other. Aussiedoodles are a good choice for people with various animals, though they still need to be observed until the two grow comfortable around one another.
Are Aussiedoodles Aggressive?
There are a lot of characteristics that describe aussiedoodles, though aggressive is not one of them. Their demeanor will still depend on their upbringing and the environment they are in, however. On average, the dogs are known to be incredibly sweet and playful. Your furniture may not be as lucky if left too long to their own devices.
The aussiedoodle is an energetic animal with a keen mind that requires a fair bit of exercise and playtime. If not, it will find more nefarious ways to pass the hours. It can also grow restless if left alone for too long, to the detriment of your couch cushions.
Do Aussiedoodles Bark?
Without proper training, an aussiedoodle might become more vocal than you would like, though they are quieter than the average dog. They may bark to alert you or inform the homeowner that someone is at the door, though they are unlikely to let the neighbors know the sidewalk is off-limits.
Are Aussiedoodles Affectionate?
If someone is a prospective pet owner looking for a pal to nestle in with at the end of a long day, the aussiedoodle is overly eager to fill the role. They are wonderfully affectionate dogs with sweet temperaments and kind dispositions. They have a genuine need for companionship and will happily snuggle in for hours with anyone willingly.
Are Aussiedoodles Intelligent?
Comparing aussiedoodles to the average pup, they aren’t just smart – they’re prodigious. Shepherd breeds need a certain aptitude to do the job of herding, and poodles regularly rank as one of the most intelligent dog breeds in the world. The aussiedoodle has yet to take an IQ test, though it is safe to say they do not lack in cognitive ability.
This doesn’t just translate into the doodle trying to guide you to the nearest stable, they also are one of the easier dogs to train due to how quickly they can pick up on things.
Are Aussiedoodles Energetic?
For those looking for a dog that will curl up on the patio all day, the aussiedoodle will not be for you. The aussiedoodle has a tremendous battery that requires daily exercise of around an hour a day. If you lead an active lifestyle and want a hiking partner, the aussiedoodle will be grateful for the workout.
Are Aussiedoodles Easy to Train?
The aussiedoodle is one of the more receptive crossbreeds in the world, and their sharp mind makes training far easier than most other breeds. They are happy to show you how capable they are, and they are very capable. If you want a dog that can learn tricks or understand a myriad of different physical and vocal commands, aussiedoodles are great.
Are Aussiedoodles Good Watchdogs?
The aussiedoodle is smart enough to fill most roles, and if you want a dog that can alert you to a potential threat or intruder, they are more than able. If you want a dog that will fend off intruders or keep people out of your home through force, the aussiedoodle is a poor pick.
While larger varieties have an intimidating appearance, they simply are not built or bred to be aggressive towards people. Their genealogy dates back to years of working in cohesion with people, making them relatively poor home protectors.
While they may alert you to people outside your home, there are better breeds for those looking for a good guard dog. As a watchdog, it has the instincts and bark to keep you aware of your immediate vicinity.
Are Aussiedoodles Good Service Dogs?
Aussiedoodles are incredibly intelligent and empathetic, which are great qualities in service dogs and emotional support dogs. However, they possess the perkiness of a poodle, which can make them a bit too hyper for specific service dog tasks. Depending on the individual temperament, certain aussiedoodles can accomplish quite a bit for those who need help.
They have the potential to make great psychiatric service dogs or emotional support dogs, though physical service tasks may prove difficult if the aussiedoodle can’t be reigned in.
How to Care for an Aussiedoodle?
Owners of an aussiedoodle should exercise the dog for a healthy length of time (around one hour) daily to avoid poor health and potential weight problems later on. The dog is incompatible with a sedentary lifestyle and will need regular physical and mental stimulation.
They should have their ears checked after outside activity as they can collect dirt and unwanted insects. Nails should be filed down around once a month, possibly twice, depending on the flooring of your house. Smaller aussiedoodles will need more frequent tooth care, though all will need regular dental attention.
Do You Need to Groom an Aussiedoodle?
Their coats can tend to differ, though most aussiedoodles will need to be brushed a few times throughout the week. The beautiful wavy coats of long-haired aussies must be maintained with frequent brushing to avoid tangles and matted hair. Denser coats may need to be trimmed a few times throughout the year.
Do Aussiedoodles Shed?
They shed a fair amount, though not nearly as bad as other breeds. Their shedding sits somewhere in the middle of the canine world, and how bad they shed will vary from doodle to doodle. For those with a passion for animals that doesn’t extend to their nose, the aussiedoodle can sometimes be hypoallergenic.
To find an aussiedoodle that is hypoallergenic, reach out to reputable breeders to learn more about what your options are. Never assume an aussiedoodle is hypoallergenic; they are an expensive breed (everyone loves them!), and you may be unpleasantly surprised.
What Health Problems Do Aussiedoodles Have?
While aussiedoodles are not known for being prone to sickness and injury, that does not mean they are immune to it. It is essential to check with a breeder before purchasing to ensure the puppy comes from healthy dogs with minimal health issues.
The health issues that aussiedoodles can suffer from are thyroid disease, hip and joint dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, epilepsy, bloat, and cataracts. A healthy diet that is monitored and plenty of exercise can minimize the likelihood of several of these medical issues down the line.
How Long Do Aussiedoodles Live?
The aussiedoodle has an average lifespan of around 10 – 14 years. Their life expectancy does depend on their height and weight, however. The smaller of the breed will likely have a few more years than their more sizable relatives.
What Should an Aussiedoodle Eat?
Aussiedoodle diets should be monitored to ensure they don’t overeat and chug half a gallon of water. Overconsumption can result in bloat, which can prove deadly. A puppy should be fed around four small meals of protein-rich, good-quality dog food daily. They can be reduced to two more significant portions throughout the day as they grow older.
The aussiedoodle diet should have a good amount of protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals.
Is an Aussiedoodle the Right Dog for Me?
There is no question that the aussiedoodle is an amazing companion that has gotten a well-deserved reputation for intelligence, loyalty, and affection. However, they do have incredible motors, and their energy will need to be expended daily, or they will grow restless. An aussiedoodle who isn’t getting playtime or regular walks can have health issues down the line.
The aussiedoodle is not a great choice for people who do not plan to spend much time outside or don’t have the extra hours to maintain an exercise and grooming schedule. While first-time owners can get an aussiedoodle, it will require a lot of maintenance and attention, and they will need to do their research beforehand.
They are also an expensive breed and may be outside the budget of certain households. This is especially true if you are going to breeders with vetted reputations and a track record of raising healthy litters. Specific color variations can also cause prices to skyrocket among aussiedoodle puppies.