Introduction

Fluffy, intelligent, and as charming as they appear, Sheepadoodles are a delightful hybrid blend of Old English Sheepdogs (OES) and Poodles. While not as widespread as their cousin, the Goldendoodle, this designer breed is steadily growing in popularity as a beloved family companion due to their loving nature and their potential for low-shedding coats. These endearing qualities have also made Sheepadoodles sought-after as therapy dogs and emotional support animals.

As with any mixed breed, Sheepadoodles do not have strict size or appearance standards like purebreds. However, their coats often feature a striking black-and-white pattern, reflecting their OES heritage, and adult Sheepadoodles tend to be on the larger side, typically standing 16–22 inches tall and weighing between 65–85 pounds, though sizes can vary. For those seeking a more compact companion, Miniature Sheepadoodles—crosses between an OES and Miniature Poodle—are available, though they are less common than their standard-sized counterparts.

Caring for a Sheepadoodle

Bred from the Old English Sheepdog and Poodle, the Sheepadoodle combines all the best traits of both parents to produce a witty, playful, and affectionate dog that flourishes as a treasured family member. However, this breed thrives best in the right environment.

“These breeds are highly intelligent and require mental stimulation to prevent behavioral challenges,” explains Dr. Sarah Whitman, DVM, a small-animal veterinarian and board member of the National Veterinary Medical Association. For this reason, Sheepadoodles are best suited for families prepared to invest ample time and energy into an active and engaging canine companion.

Grooming demands merit special attention, as both parent breeds require consistent upkeep, Dr. Whitman notes. “While Poodles are renowned for minimal shedding, Old English Sheepdogs do shed considerably.” She cautions, “So, it’s important not to assume your Sheepadoodle will be completely non-shedding.”

Sheepadoodle Health Issues

Generally, Sheepadoodles enjoy robust health and typically live between 12 and 15 years. Nevertheless, certain hereditary health concerns common to both parent breeds may still affect this crossbreed, despite responsible breeding practices.

“Many breeds face prevalent genetic health challenges that can be tough to eliminate because so few dogs are free of the genes,” says Dr. Whitman. This genetic reality means that some conditions require lifelong management and vigilance.

Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia occurs when the hip joint develops abnormally, leading to looseness and discomfort—a condition relatively frequent in larger breeds such as the Old English Sheepdog and Poodle.

Dogs suffering from hip dysplasia may exhibit stiffness, reduced activity, or difficulty moving. Consulting your veterinarian is vital, as a range of treatments—including joint supplements, anti-inflammatory drugs, or even surgery for severe cases—can improve quality of life.

Eye Issues

“Both Poodles and Old English Sheepdogs face numerous inherited eye conditions,” says Dr. Whitman, emphasizing the need for regular veterinary eye checks.

Common eye ailments to watch for in Sheepadoodles include:

• Cataracts
• Corneal dystrophy
• Distichiasis (extra eyelashes emerging from unusual eyelid locations)
• Micropapilla (undersized optic discs)
• Progressive retinal atrophy (degeneration of the retina)

Bloat

Large breeds like Standard Poodles and OES are more susceptible to bloat, a serious condition related mainly to body shape rather than genetics.

In advanced cases, bloat can lead to gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV), a life-threatening emergency. A preventative surgical procedure called gastropexy, often performed during spay or neuter appointments for deep-chested dogs, can help guard against future bloat episodes.

What To Feed a Sheepadoodle

Choosing the right food should consider your Sheepadoodle’s size and activity level. Dr. Whitman advises feeding large-breed puppy formulas to support controlled bone growth during their developmental stages. “Slow, steady growth is key for healthy bones in large breeds,” she says. As your pup matures, transition to adult food tailored to their specific needs.

How To Feed a Sheepadoodle

It’s best practice to feed adult Sheepadoodles twice daily. Puppies thrive with three to four smaller meals scheduled throughout the day until they transition to adult feeding routines.

To reduce the risk of GDV in susceptible dogs, employ these mealtime strategies:

• Offer multiple small meals instead of one large serving.
• Limit vigorous activity before and after eating.
• Minimize stress during meals.
• Avoid elevated food bowls.

How Much Should You Feed a Sheepadoodle?

To maintain a healthy weight, avoid overfeeding. Despite their size, overweight Sheepadoodles face increased health risks. Follow the portion guidelines on AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials)-approved dog food packages, and continuously monitor your dog’s body condition. Remember that treats count toward daily calories, so include them within the total intake.

Nutritional Tips for Sheepadoodles

Veterinarians are the best resource for advice on nutritional supplements tailored to your Sheepadoodle’s health needs. Given the predisposition to hip dysplasia in their lineage, supplements containing glucosamine hydrochloride, MSM, omega-3 fatty acids, and chondroitin may support joint health and mobility.

Sheepadoodle Personality and Temperament

The ideal Sheepadoodle is a wonderful combination of adaptability, intelligence, affection, and playfulness. They reflect the gentle temperament of their OES heritage while showcasing the lively, entertaining spirit inherited from their Poodle parent. Although temperament can lean toward one side, both breeds are known for being excellent family companions.

With proper socialization, Sheepadoodles typically adore children and coexist peacefully with other pets. Erin Larson, CPDT-KA, a certified dog trainer with Petscarelab, notes, “While they aren’t necessarily extremely high-energy, their stamina is remarkable. Without sufficient mental and physical outlets, their energy can manifest as overexcitement.”

Consistent exercise, engaging mental challenges, and ongoing training are essential to nurturing a well-behaved Sheepadoodle.

Sheepadoodle Behavior

Their affectionate nature often means Sheepadoodles form close bonds with family members and may struggle with being left alone, especially if bored.

“They’re very people-oriented dogs,” Larson explains. “These breeds have a history of independent work when tasked with a job. But when left alone without activity, they may become anxious and uncertain, which can result in separation anxiety.” Adequate stimulation helps mitigate these issues.

The Sheepadoodle’s loyal and loving disposition means they may become quite attached to their humans and often don’t do well when left idle at home.

When fully included in family life, Sheepadoodles are generally cheerful and easygoing. Larson adds that they tend to be alert and may vocalize frequently to signal visitors or passersby—a natural instinct to “report” happenings around their home. Training is important to help them learn when it’s appropriate to stop alerting.

Sheepadoodle Training

Both the Old English Sheepdog and Poodle have strong working backgrounds—the former as herders and the latter as hunters and performers. This history results in a smart, trainable mix.

“They’re eager learners and highly motivated to work,” says Larson. “Owners need to commit to lifelong training using positive reinforcement techniques to bring out their best.”

Depending on whether your Sheepadoodle favors the Poodle or OES lineage, training ease may differ. Poodles are typically eager to please and quick to learn, while OES offspring may display independent streaks, requiring more patience and encouragement via treats and praise.

Fun Activities for Sheepadoodles

• Agility courses
• Swimming sessions
• Obedience training
• Learning tricks
• Extended walks or runs in cool weather
• Snow play
• Hiking adventures
• Frisbee tossing
• Fetch games
• Visits to the dog park
• Cozy cuddle times with family

Sheepadoodle Grooming Guide

Many choose a “doodle” mix hoping for a non-shedding dog, but there’s no guarantee that a Sheepadoodle won’t shed.

Regardless of shedding, both parent breeds require significant grooming, so be ready to dedicate time to brushing and professional grooming appointments to keep their coat healthy and comfortable.

Encourage your Sheepadoodle puppy to view grooming—brushing, nail trimming, and ear cleaning—as enjoyable bonding times filled with praise and treats. This helps them grow comfortable with care routines as they mature into much larger dogs.

Coat Care

Brushing your Sheepadoodle daily or several times per week, along with a bath and trim every couple of months, will help maintain a beautiful, mat-free coat, whether they lean more toward their Poodle or OES fur type.

Different coat types may vary in their tendency to mat or shed seasonally. Consult your veterinarian or groomer for personalized grooming advice to keep your pup comfortable and looking their best.

Eye Care

Regular grooming prevents hair from obstructing your Sheepadoodle’s vision, but because they are prone to eye conditions, keep a close watch on their eyes. Seek veterinary guidance immediately if you observe any changes.

Ear Care

With their love for outdoor play, routinely inspect your Sheepadoodle’s floppy ears for dirt or debris. Keeping ears clean and dry—especially after swimming—is crucial to preventing infections. Consult your vet about the best ear-cleaning solutions for your dog.

Considerations for Pet Parents

Thanks to their Old English Sheepdog lineage, Sheepadoodles adapt wonderfully to cooler climates. They can also thrive in warmer regions if their coat is trimmed appropriately and they have access to cool indoor spaces during hot weather. While low-shedding is often hoped for, it’s not guaranteed, and diligent grooming is necessary regardless.

All the time and care invested will be richly rewarded by a Sheepadoodle that is loving, attentive, well-trained, and a delightful daily companion to their family.

How big do Sheepadoodles get?

Sheepadoodle size varies with their parentage. Puppies from an Old English Sheepdog and Standard Poodle (F1 Sheepadoodle) usually weigh between 65 and 85 pounds as adults. If one parent is a Miniature Poodle, the resulting Miniature Sheepadoodle will be noticeably smaller.

With successive generations mixing Sheepadoodles with Poodles or other mixes, size can vary more widely. For example, an F1B Sheepadoodle (Sheepadoodle crossed with a Poodle) may be smaller if the Poodle parent is miniature.

When do Sheepadoodles stop growing?

Most Sheepadoodles reach full size between 12 and 24 months of age. Growth rates can vary, so it’s best to be cautious with high-impact activities such as running until your dog is fully mature.

Is a Sheepadoodle a good family dog?

Absolutely! Sheepadoodles tend to be affectionate, loving companions who enjoy spending time with both adults and children. However, due to their large size and sometimes exuberant play style, supervision is essential when young children are involved to prevent accidental knocks or roughhousing. Teaching your Sheepadoodle not to herd children is also important for a safe family environment.

Is a Sheepadoodle hypoallergenic?

Because Sheepadoodles are part Poodle, they are often marketed as low-shedding or “hypoallergenic.” However, no dog is completely hypoallergenic, and individual reactions vary. Some Sheepadoodles may shed more than others, especially due to their Old English Sheepdog genes.

If you have allergies, spend time around Sheepadoodles before adopting to gauge your sensitivity and avoid surprises.