Sheepadoodle dog breed profile

Whether your dog is a purebred Sheepadoodle or a Sheepadoodle mix, learning about the breed can explain a lot about your pet’s personality, habits and overall health. Or maybe you're looking to adopt a Sheepadoodle and want to do a bit of research first — we can help with that.

Sheepadoodles, a mixture of an Old English Sheepdog and a Standard (or Miniature) Poodle, range from small to large. These often curly-haired pups can be great family pets and wonderful companions. Here’s how to best take care of them.

‍What’s a Sheepadoodle?

Since Sheepadoodles are a mixed breed, they can be mostly Poodle or align more with Old English Sheepdog characteristics. You probably won't know what genes are strongest until your dog is fully grown.

“As long as you're open-minded to the possibilities and research both breeds, you'll have a great relationship with your Sheepadoodle,” Dr. Singler says.

‍How big do Sheepadoodles get?

Size varies depending on if a Miniature or Standard Poodle is in your dog's makeup. A larger Sheepadoodle can be around 25 inches tall, while a Miniature Sheepadoodle is a little shorter at 15 inches tall when fully grown.

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What is Sheepadoodle hair like? 

‍Every Sheepadoodle has a unique look since they’re a mixed breed and will take traits, like coloring, from their parents specifically. Generally, these canines can have medium to long wavy or curly hair that usually grows white with patches of color. 

Both Poodles and Old English Sheepdogs are prone to matting, which means that a Sheepadoodle will probably require daily brushing and regular professional grooming to prevent discomfort — Dr. Singler recommends making an appointment every 6 weeks. 

Since every Sheepadoodle is different depending on the breed they genetically favor, not all Sheepadoodle’s grooming routines are the same. Your vet can recommend what’s best for your pet.

And if you’re interested in adopting a Sheepadoodle in hopes they’ll be hypoallergenic, think again. 

“No dog is guaranteed to be hypoallergenic,” Dr. Singler warns. Although Sheepadoodles aren’t hypoallergenic, the fact that these pups may have Poodle-like hair can mean they shed less than other pets. 

Sheepadoodle temperament

It’s challenging to predict the personality of any Sheepadoodle because that depends on which traits they’ve inherited from their parents. However, Sheepadoodles are typically energetic, social, smart and easy to train while also being protective because of Old English Sheepdogs’ guarding tendencies. 

Positive reinforcement is key in encouraging good behavior when bringing your new pup home. Training is important to ensure Sheepadoodles don’t jump on people and to prevent guarding tendencies. Plenty of socialization, exercise and mental stimulation will also help your pet have a good quality of life and temperament. 

Training your dog can call for training your family, too. You should always supervise interactions between your pup and children while teaching your family members how to pay attention to a dog’s body language — like not approaching a dog when they’re eating, have a toy or hiding under furniture. 

Sheepadoodle rescue

Are you interested in adopting a Sheepadoodle, Sheepadoodle mix or any pet at all? We think every pet deserves a home and encourage you to check out our shelter partners. 

‍The Dig, Fetch by The Dodo’s expert-backed editorial, answers all of the questions you forget to ask your vet or are too embarrassed to ask at the dog park. We help make sure you and your best friend have more good days, but we’re there on bad days, too. Fetch provides the most comprehensive pet insurance and is the only provider recommended by the #1 animal brand in the world, The Dodo.