Sheepadoodle

Updated August 11, 2025

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The Sheepadoodle is a designer crossbreed created by mixing an Old English Sheepdog with a Poodle. The goal was to produce a large, intelligent, family-friendly dog with a low-shedding coat, making them a popular choice for people with allergies.

Temperament

Intelligent, Playful, Affectionate, Gentle, Sociable

Weight

65-85 pounds

Height

19-24 inches

Life Expectancy

12-15 years

Coat Color

Black and White, Grey and White, Brown and White, Blue Merle and White, Solid Black

At a Glance

Maintenance Level

5/5

Friendliness

5/5

Energy Level

4/5

Good with Kids

5/5

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Characteristics Appearance Temperament Care Health History FAQs

About Sheepadoodle

The Sheepadoodle is a designer crossbreed created by mixing an Old English Sheepdog with a Poodle. The goal was to produce a large, intelligent, family-friendly dog with a low-shedding coat, making them a popular choice for people with allergies.

12-15 years
Lifespan
65-85 pounds
Weight
19-24 inches
Height
4
Energy Level

What Makes Sheepadoodles Special

The Sheepadoodle is a lovable, big teddy bear of a dog, blending the intelligence of the Poodle with the calm, steady nature of the Old English Sheepdog. They are known for being affectionate, playful, and great with families.

These dogs are highly social and form strong bonds with their owners, wanting to be involved in all family activities. Their playful antics and loving disposition make them a joy to have around.

Sheepadoodle History & Origin

The Sheepadoodle is a relatively new designer breed that was first developed in the 1960s by the U.S. Army as a potential military police dog. Their popularity as family pets grew significantly in the 1980s and 90s during the 'doodle' craze, which aimed to create Poodle mixes with desirable temperaments and low-shedding coats.

First bred in the 1960s by the United States Army for military purposes.

The cross combines the intelligence and low-shedding coat of the Poodle with the gentle, family-oriented nature of the Old English Sheepdog.

The breed's popularity grew as families sought large, friendly dogs that were more suitable for those with allergies.

The cost of a Sheepadoodle puppy from a breeder can range from $1,500 to $3,000, depending on the breeder, location, and the puppy's characteristics.

Adoption is also an option, with rescues specializing in Doodles or parent breeds (like Poodle or Old English Sheepdog rescues) sometimes having Sheepadoodles available.

Sheepadoodle Characteristics

Individual Variation

Dogs are individuals and not all dogs, even those of the same breed, will exhibit all the same qualities.

Care Requirements

Exercise Needs

Couch Potato Star Athlete

Grooming Needs

Minimal Grooming Extensive Grooming

Training Needs

Requires Minimal Training Requires a Lot of Training

Health Issues

Few Known Health Issues Many Known Health Issues

Shedding Level

Sheds a Little Sheds a Lot

Sheepadoodle Appearance

Sheepadoodles are large, muscular dogs with a shaggy, often non-shedding coat. Their most common look is a distinctive black-and-white pattern, but they come in other colors as well.

They have a friendly and gentle expression, often with hair covering their eyes, and carry themselves with a bouncy, happy gait.

Physical Features

Ears

Their ears are floppy and covered with hair, framing their face.

Eyes

Eyes are typically dark brown and have a warm, intelligent expression.

Nose

The nose is usually black or dark brown.

Coat & Build

Coat Length

Sheepadoodles have a single coat of long hair that can be wavy or curly. This coat requires significant grooming to prevent mats.

Coat Color

The most common color is a mix of black and white. Other variations include grey and white, brown and white, and solid colors. Some puppies are born black and white and fade to a grey and white as they mature.

Tail

The tail is naturally long and feathery, though some breeders may dock it.

Sheepadoodle Temperament

Sheepadoodles inherit the best traits from their parent breeds, combining the gentle, easy-going nature of the Old English Sheepdog with the intelligence and playful energy of the Poodle.

They are highly sociable dogs that thrive on human interaction and form strong bonds with their families, often considering themselves lap dogs despite their large size.

Their intelligence makes them quick learners, though they can sometimes exhibit a stubborn streak inherited from the Sheepdog side. Early and consistent training helps to channel their smarts effectively.

Known for their clownish antics and fun-loving spirit, Sheepadoodles are excellent family companions that are generally great with children and other pets, though their boisterous play may require supervision with very small kids.

They are adaptable and can fit into various living situations, but their social nature means they do not do well when left alone for long periods.

Temperament Traits

IntelligentPlayfulAffectionateGentleSociable

Good With

ChildrenOther DogsCatsActive FamiliesFirst-Time Owners

Health

Sheepadoodles are generally a healthy hybrid breed with a lifespan of 12 to 15 years. However, they can be prone to certain genetic health conditions inherited from both the Old English Sheepdog and Poodle parent breeds. Responsible breeders will screen for these issues.

Common Health Issues

Hip Dysplasia - An abnormal formation of the hip socket that can cause arthritis and lameness. This is common in both parent breeds.
Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus) - A life-threatening condition where the stomach twists. It is more common in large, deep-chested dogs.
Eye Conditions - Can be prone to issues like cataracts and Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), which can lead to blindness.
Hypothyroidism - A condition where the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough hormone, leading to issues like weight gain, lethargy, and skin problems.
Skin Infections and Allergies - Their thick coat can sometimes trap moisture and debris, leading to skin issues. Some may also inherit allergies from the Poodle parent.

Preventive Care

Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, consistent exercise, and screening for genetic conditions are key to a long, healthy life.

How to Care for a Sheepadoodle

Sheepadoodles are energetic and intelligent dogs that require significant commitment in terms of grooming, exercise, and social interaction to keep them happy and healthy.

Living Conditions

Space Requirements

A home with a securely fenced yard is highly recommended.

Climate Adaptability

Their thick coat makes them well-suited for cooler climates, but they can adapt to warmer weather with proper care (e.g., air conditioning, avoiding midday heat).

Apartment Living

Not ideal for apartment living unless the owner is extremely committed to providing extensive daily exercise and stimulation.

Best Suited For

Best suited for active families or individuals who can include the dog in their daily activities.

Training Tips

Start socialization and training from a young age.
Use positive reinforcement with treats and praise.
Keep training sessions short, varied, and fun.
Be consistent with rules and commands to avoid confusion.
Provide plenty of puzzle toys to keep their intelligent minds busy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Specialized Care Guides

Puppy Care

Early socialization and puppy training classes are essential. Provide appropriate chew toys and a consistent routine.

Senior Care

Adjust exercise to be lower impact to protect joints. Regular vet check-ups are crucial to monitor for age-related health issues. May benefit from joint supplements.

First-Time Owner Tips

An excellent choice for attentive first-time owners who are prepared for the high grooming and exercise commitment.