The Aussiedoodle, also referred to as the Aussiepoo, is a hybrid dog breed developed by crossing an Australian Shepherd with a Poodle. These intelligent and affectionate dogs have gained popularity for their friendly temperament and hypoallergenic coats. Aussiedoodles come in various sizes — including Toy, Mini, and Standard — depending on the size of the Poodle parent. While they can make excellent family pets, like all breeds, they come with their own set of unique characteristics. Before bringing an Aussiedoodle home, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons to determine if this Poodle mix breed is the right fit for your lifestyle and preferences.
Pros of an Aussiedoodle
This designer dog breed is highly intelligent
Aussiedoodles inherit their smarts from both parent breeds. This intelligence makes them exceptionally trainable dogs who are capable of learning commands and tricks with relative ease. Consequently, they are often used in roles that require quick thinking and problem-solving skills, such as agility or search and rescue tasks.
The Aussiedoodle has a low-shedding coat that comes in a variety of colors
If you are concerned about allergies or house cleanliness, you’ll be pleased to know that Aussiedoodles inherit the Poodle’s low-shedding coat. While no dog is truly 100% hypoallergenic, Aussiedoodles tend to shed less and produce fewer allergens compared to many other breeds. What’s more, their coat comes in a range of colors and patterns. These include black, blue merle, red, chocolate, cream, apricot, and silver, making each Aussiedoodle unique.
Aussiedoodles are energetic and playful dogs
With an Australian Shepherd parent, Aussiedoodles are naturally high-energy dogs. They require regular exercise and thrive on being active, whether that means going for runs, hikes, or engaging in interactive play. Their zest for life and playful spirit can bring a lot of joy and entertainment to a household.
These dogs are generally healthy due to their hybrid genes
Being a mixed breed, Aussiedoodles exhibit hybrid vigor. This means they typically enjoy better health and vitality due to greater genetic diversity. On average, Aussiedoodles have a lifespan of around 10 to 15 years or even longer. That being said, they can still inherit health problems from their parent breeds, such as hip dysplasia and eye disorders. To maintain your Aussiedoodle’s well-being, it’s essential to provide them with a nutritious diet, regular exercise, and routine veterinary check-ups.
Aussiepoos have a friendly and loving temperament, making them fantastic family dogs
Aussiedoodles are extremely loyal and affectionate towards their families. They love human interaction and are known to form strong bonds with their family members. Additionally, they get along well with children and other pets, making them ideal companions for any household. Due to their sociable demeanor, Aussiedoodles are also excellent candidates for therapy and assistance dogs.
Cons of an Aussiedoodle
Aussiedoodles for sale come with a high price tag
Wondering how much does an Aussiedoodle cost? Since they are a designer breed, these dogs don’t come cheap. Moreover, their popularity and the demand for hypoallergenic breeds contribute to their high price. Buying an Aussiedoodle puppy from a reputable breeder will likely cost you anywhere between $500 to $2,500, and sometimes even more. The initial cost, coupled with ongoing expenses such as grooming, healthcare, and training, can make them a considerable financial commitment.
Despite their designer status, many Aussiepoos still end up in shelters or rescue organizations. Adopting one of these pups instead of buying can be much more ethical and cost-effective.
These dogs can suffer from separation anxiety
Due to their strong attachment to their owners, Aussiedoodles may experience separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods. This distress can lead to undesirable behaviors, such as excessive barking, chewing, or even attempts to escape. It’s important to consider this factor, particularly if you have long work hours or are away from home for extended periods.
This high-energy breed requires lots of exercise and may not be ideal for a sedentary lifestyle
Their high energy levels mean Aussiedoodles require a significant amount of daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. As an Aussiedoodle parent, you must commit to providing regular physical activity, such as walks, runs, or play sessions, to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors. This breed may not be suited for individuals with a sedentary or inactive lifestyle.
When it comes to grooming, Aussiedoodles are high-maintenance dogs
The Aussiedoodle’s hypoallergenic coat has its pros and cons. These dogs require regular grooming to keep their fur in good condition. Without frequent brushing, they can develop mats and tangles, especially if they inherit the curly Poodle coat. Professional grooming every few months may also be necessary, which adds to the overall cost of ownership. Interestingly, many Aussiedoodle owners opt for a teddy bear cut, giving their pooch a real-life teddy bear appearance!
Aussiedoodles may exhibit herding behavior
One of the downsides to an Aussiedoodle is their tendency to display herding behavior. This trait stems from their Australian Shepherd heritage, a breed well-known for its shepherding skills. While this can be amusing and generally harmless, it may pose a challenge, especially if you have young children or other pets at home. An Aussiedoodle might try to herd them by nudging or gently nipping at their heels. Nonetheless, training and socialization from an early age can help channel their herding instincts in positive ways, ensuring they remain well-behaved and properly socialized members of the family.
Is an Aussiedoodle the right dog for you?
Aussiedoodles offer a blend of characteristics that make them great companions for the right owners. Their intelligence, friendliness, and low-shedding coats are significant pluses, while their grooming needs, potential for separation anxiety, and exercise requirements may present challenges. As with any pet, deciding to add an Aussiedoodle to your family requires careful consideration of both the breed’s pros and cons. Ultimately, whether this Poodle mix is the right dog for you will depend on your lifestyle, budget, and willingness to meet their needs.
