Sheepadoodle
Also known as Sheepdoodle · Sheep-A-Poo
United States, Doodles and designer crosses
- Size
- Large
- Height
- 38–69 cm
- Weight
- 11–36 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–15 yrs
- Clownish
- Smart
- Friendly
- Shaggy
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Sheepadoodle
A Sheepadoodle is an Old English Sheepdog crossed with a Poodle, usually a Standard. The result is a big, shaggy dog, often black and white, with a playful character. Miniature versions are bred using smaller Poodles, so adult size can vary considerably.
Temperament
Typically clownish, friendly and smart, with some of the sheepdog's herding instinct, which can show up as nudging or circling children. They are sociable and do best in homes where someone is around for much of the day.
Exercise
Expect to provide an hour or more of daily activity, plus things to think about such as training games or puzzle feeders. Herding instincts can be channelled into sports like agility.
Grooming
This is a high-maintenance coat: thorough brushing several times a week, attention to the feet and face, and professional grooming every six to eight weeks. Low shedding is common but not assured, and allergen levels differ between dogs.
Care & wellbeing
Find a breeder who tests both parents and can explain what generation the puppies are. Keep the hair around the eyes trimmed so the dog can see clearly. Seek urgent veterinary help if the dog has a hard, swollen stomach and tries to vomit without bringing anything up.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 23.5 kg adult- Water
- 940 ml–1.4 L
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 1,200 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 90–120 min
- a day
- Grooming
- Daily brushing
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Sheepadoodle
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
Old English Sheepdog and Poodle crosses have existed for some time, but deliberate breeding under the Sheepadoodle name took off in North America in the 2000s and 2010s. Social media helped spread the dog's popularity. There is no breed standard and most dogs are early-generation crosses.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Hip dysplasia
- Bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus)
- Cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy
- Sebaceous adenitis
- Ear infections
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hip and elbow scoring
- Eye examination
- PRA-prcd DNA test
- MDR1 DNA test
Not every Sheepadoodle is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
Highest than average- Food, insurance and medicines cost more for a big dog
- Regular professional grooming adds up
- A 12–15 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Sheepadoodle right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- First-time owners prepared to train consistently
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
- You don't have time for frequent brushing or the cost of professional grooming
- You need a dog you can easily lift or carry
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Sheepadoodle get?
Adult Sheepadoodles typically stand about 38–69 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 11–36 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Sheepadoodles live?
Typically 12–15 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Sheepadoodle need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Sheepadoodle need?
Daily brushing, plus regular professional grooming or clipping. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Sheepadoodles easy to train?
Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.
Do Sheepadoodles shed?
A little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Sheepadoodles good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Sheepadoodle live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Sheepadoodles have?
The breed can be prone to hip dysplasia, bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus), cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy. Not every Sheepadoodle is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- United States
- Type
- Doodles and designer crosses
- Recognition
- A crossbreed, not recognised by kennel clubs