The Aussiedoodle: Doodles Down Under

The Aussiedoodle Dog Breed in Brief:

Origin: United States

Height:

Weight:

Exercise Needs: Medium

Grooming Needs: High

Life Expectancy: 12-15 years

Good With Kids: Yes

Trainability: Easy

The Aussiedoodle, also known as the Aussie-Poo, is a crossbreed resulting from a mixture of Australian Shepherd and Poodle. They come in various sizes, due to the variety of Poodles which they are often mixed with, and are recognized as a highly intelligent and non-shedding breed with incredible hybrid vigor. With coats ranging from a silky texture to soft and wooly waves, the Aussiedoodle is a great companion dog for the right family.

The History of the Aussiedoodle

The Aussiedoodle is a relatively new crossbreed, as recognized by the American Canine Hybrid Club, though it is quite likely that accidental breedings have occurred previously, throughout the years. Having developed much like the other popular Poodle hybrids such as the Cockapoo, Labradoodle, and Schnoodle, these wonderful crossbreed dogs have been gaining popularity, particularly with those who suffer from pet-related allergies. While the Aussiedoodle is not completely hypo-allergenic (no dogs truly are), this non-shedding breed does lessen the likelihood of breathing problems and many homeowners find it preferable to turn to a breed that won’t leave hair all over the furniture.

The Aussiedoodle Appearance

The Aussiedoodle can vary in appearance, due to his mixed lineage, taking after either of his parents. This can result in a variation of size, ranging from what are known as Miniature Aussiedoodles (Australian Shepherds crossed with Toy Poodles), to the larger variety, which can stand up to inches at the shoulder. Additionally, the non-shedding coat of the Aussie-Poo can vary from a loose wave to a kinky curled coat. Regardless of the variety, however, the Aussiedoodle’s coat is generally softer than that of a pure poodle, and their coats are often compared to soft textures, such as velour or rabbit fur.

Aussiedoodles tend to have a somewhat rectangular build with a level topline and proud stance. Their colors can vary widely, ranging from solids and patterned dogs, to brilliantly-hued red and blue merles. Eye colors also vary, with golden brown eyes being most common, but also appearing in shades such as dark brown and blue.

The Aussiedoodle Temperament

Aussiedoodles are known for their amazing intelligence and their sweet, yet outgoing personalities. Generally interacting well with other pets and fellow canines, they are also touted as being a wonderful family dog, with plenty of patience for even small children. Usually quite loveable, they do not make good watch or guard dogs, but they are worthy companion animals who don’t tend to play favorites. While there are always exceptions to the rule, most Aussiedoodles seem to get along with everyone.

Due to this hybrid’s intelligence, boredom can prove to be a bit of a problem and, with that, they can often suffer restlessness and have a tendency to chew furniture or scratch doors if left alone for too long. Crate training and obedience are highly suggested, even for the calmer members of the family, if for nothing else than to keep them safe from harm when you’re not able to supervise curious puppies.

The Aussiedoodle Exercise Needs

While many suggest that the Aussiedoodle may be a high-energy (and therefore high-maintenance) dog, the jury remains out on this debate. Some Aussiedoodles can be very energetic and athletic individuals, enjoying wild romps in the back yard and games of catch with Frisbees, while other members of the Aussie-Poo breed prefer to spend their days relaxing and playing couch-potato. For this reason, a good rule of thumb is to be prepared to take your Aussiedoodle for a couple of brisk walks a day or, at the very least, give him the opportunity to race and romp in a dog park a couple of times a week. Not only will this help to burn off excess energy and reduce the risk of bored or destructive behavior, but it will also help prevent obesity.

Aussiedoodle Grooming Requirements

Grooming the Aussiedoodle can vary in accordance with coat types. Dogs with a loose wave do well with one or two combings a week, while the curled Aussiedoodle may require more extensive combing or regular trips to the groomers. Many owners favor keeping these curly-coated dogs clipped short, as it helps to keep down dander as well as keeping the dogs cool during hot summer months.

Attention should also be paid to the Aussiedoodles’ ears. Seeing as how they are a fold-eared dog, it’s very common for them to get dirt and a build up of wax within the ear. This can be cleaned out, using a Q-tip to clean just the outer shell of your dog’s ear (never insert the Q-tip down into the ear canal as this can be very painful to your dog and can damage his hearing). If excessive dirt is evident, discuss an ear wash with your veterinarian.

Training Your Aussie-Poo

The Australian Shepherd - Poodle cross makes for a wonderfully intelligent canine that is eager to learn, provided he is treated with kindness and respect. A capable learner, these wonderful hybrids enjoy stretching their boundaries and trying new things, succeeding very well in obedience classes as well as obstacle courses. Very athletic and quick on their feet, the Aussiedoodle seems to thrive in an environment where he is challenged.

Aussiedoodles do not react well to physical punishment, yelling, or harsh words. The best method to use, when training these lovely dogs, is through reward and positive reinforcement. You can never give out too many pettings and praises, so don’t be afraid - you can only encourage this magnificent hybrid to work harder.

Aussiedoodle Health Concerns

Possessing a natural phenomenon known as “hybrid vigor,” the Aussiedoodle is commonly much healthier and tends to live a longer life than his purebred ancestors. While long-term health issues are still being determined, it is suggested that the hybrid breed may be susceptible to some of the same hereditary diseases as their parent breeds, such as disorders of the patella or elbow, hip dysplasia, or progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). Additionally, evidence has shown that Aussiedoodles (particularly the Miniature or Toy varieties) can have severe reactions to Ivermectin, commonly used for heartworms. Care should be taken to avoid any kinds of medications containing Ivermectin as a result of this.

Is the Aussiedoodle the Right Dog For You?

Quick and eager to learn, the Aussiedoodle is a friendly puppy who adapts well to most situations. Keenly intelligent and very social, they are well-suited for family life, as well as sharing homes with cats and other dogs. While they require occasional grooming, their coats are not as troublesome as those of other long-haired breeds, and one can always get him cut short, should you worry about excess grooming.

The main drawback of this hybrid, if there is in fact any, is that some individuals require a fair amount of exercise and stimulation in order to prevent boredom. If you’re looking to adopt an Aussiedoodle puppy, be sure to take into mind, the amount of time that you have to spend with your dog, and how much time he will spend at home alone. If you have quality time and room in your life for a wonderful dog, the Aussiedoodle may be just the dog for you.

Shawna L. Krautheim

2007