Posted by If you consider getting a dog to take care of, Sheepadoodle is one of the best options. What is a Shepadoodle? If the name sounds strange to you since you are not really familiar with it and it is the first time of you hearing the name, check out the guide below.
About Sheepadoodle
Sheepadoodle refers to the cross between a German Shepherd and Poodle. Aside from Sheepadoodle, this mix is also known as Shepapoo and Sheppoo Shepherd Poodle. This breed was originally bred as a way to help everyone who suffers from pet allergies. Since 2007, it has become more popular.
Appearance
Sheepadoodles can vary when it comes to their appearance. The most common coat of this breed is the combination of black and brown. Actually, it is also possible for them to have tricolor black, brown, white coats. Besides, a single dark color is also possible. Basically, the coat colors include black, sable, cream, tan, and gray.
Talking about the coat of Sheepadoodles, it can be either straight or wavy. Besides, it can also be dense or thick.
As for the physical appearance, Sheepadoodles usually have a weight of about 50 to 80 pounds. They are known as tall dogs that can reach up to about 22 to 28 inches if they get proper nutrition.
Size
There are a few types of Sheepadoodle sizes, as follows:
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Micro Sheepadoodle/Petite Sheepadoodle/Toy Sheepadoodle
Micro Sheepadoodles, which are also popular as Petite Sheepadoodles and Toy Sheepadoodles, are known as the smallest sizes of the Sheepadoodles. Their size ranges from 25 to 35 pounds. These dogs are usually born from a small sized male Poodle and a medium sized female German Shepherd. Micro Sheepadoodle/Petite Sheepadoodle/Toy Shepadoodle is perfect for those who are living in smaller houses, apartments, or condos. Besides, they are also excellent for those with no yard.
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Mini Sheepadoodle/Miniature Sheepadoodle
A Miniature or Mini Shepadoodle is medium in size. It is between Micro Sheepadoodle/Petite Sheepadoodle/Toy Sheepadoodle and Standard Sheepadoodle. As for the weight, it usually ranges from 35 pounds to 45 pounds. While this kind of dog with this mini size is supposed to have very small weight, 35 pounds to 45 pounds is considered to be pretty mini knowing that its parents, German Shepherds can reach more than 100 pounds and a Poodle can reach to be around 90 pounds.
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Standard Sheepadoodle
The Standard Sheepadoodle usually weighs more than 45 pounds. This one is known as the largest sizing for Sheepadoodle. Compared to the Micro Sheepadoodle/Petite Sheepadoodle/Toy Shepadoodle and Mini Sheepadoodle/Miniature Sheepadoodle, this type of Sheepadoodle needs more exercise. From the information above, it can be concluded that the larger the size of the Sheepadoodle, the more exercise that dog is going to need on a daily basis.
Life span
Compared to the pure breeds, crossbreeds like Sheepadoodle usually have only fewer genetic illnesses. This breed can have a long healthy life as long as it is fed with proper nutrition. Besides, it should also get care. A healthy Sheepadoodle can have a life span of between 12 to 14 years.
Temperament
Considering that Sheepadoodle is a mix between the Poodle and the German Shepherd, two breeds who are known to be active, it is believed that this cross is going to have an active dog with a lot of energy. With the high intelligence and high energy inherited from its parents, this one can have a wide range of temperaments. It is a must for every owner to properly exercise this mix, including regular walking, running, and stimulation. If they fail to do so, do not be surprised if the dog shows destructive behavior around the house or yard. With the proper exercise, this dog will be bored.
On the brighter news, Sheepadoodle is known to be a breed that is perfect to be taken care of as a pet. It is especially great if the owner has an active lifestyle and likes to take the dog to the dog park to give it the chance to play with the other dogs. In general, the temperaments of Sheepadoodles include loyal, protective, intelligent, calm, well-mannered, affectionate, playful, energetic, and have strong prey instincts.
Popular generations
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F1 Sheepadoodle
The F1 Sheepadoodle consists of 50% Poodle and 50% German Shepherd. It is between parent dogs that are 100% Poodle and 100% German Shepherd. It is the one that people refer to when talking about Sheepadoodle.
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F1B Sheepadoodle
An F1B Sheepadoodle refers to a mix between a Sheepadoodle (50% Poodle and 50% German Shepherd) and Poodle. This generation consists of 75% Poodle and 25% German Shepherd. The coat of this generation will be similar to Poodle with either curly or wavy.
Health issues
It is possible for the Sheepadoodle to get health issues. Some of these health issues may be inherited from its German Shepherd and Poodle parents. Check out some health issues that they may inherit below:
- Hip dysplasia
- Elbow dysplasia
- Bloat
- Eye problems
- Pancreatitis
- Thyroid disorders
Grooming tips
While Sheepadoodles are best for those who are prone to allergies as they are known to be hypoallergenic and typically shed very little, they still need care. Check out the grooming tips below:
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Brushing
Sheepadoodles have fluffy coats, making it easy for this breed to cat easily. As the effort to keep the coat tangle free, you are advised to brush it every single day. Feel free to use a deshedding tool to help you in brushing the dog with long hair like the Sheepadoodle. By using this kind of tool, you will be able to efficiently get rid of loose hair and to make grooming hassle free.
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Bathing
How often you can bathe your Sheepadoodle depends on their activity levels. The average number is once every 6-8 weeks. If your dog is the kind of one that likes to play in dirt, then bathe it every time it plays in the dirt. Make sure to use a shampoo to keep its skin healthy and clean. In order to reduce the risk of eye infections, please do eye cleaning at least once every two weeks.
