The Aussiedoodle Community

The Aussiedoodle is a cross between an Australian Shepherd and a Poodle, producing a highly intelligent, active and typically low-to-moderate-shedding dog that has grown significantly in popularity in the UK. It is not recognised by the Kennel Club and cannot be KC-registered. Like all Poodle crosses, it is often marketed with emphasis on the low-shedding coat, but the most important characteristics of this cross are the very high intelligence and exercise demands inherited from both parent breeds. Both parent breeds are working dogs of considerable ability. The Australian Shepherd is a herding breed bred for sustained activity, quick problem-solving and intense responsiveness to human direction. The Poodle, despite its often-mischaracterised image, was developed as a working retriever and retains exceptional intelligence, trainability and energy. When these two breeds cross, the result is a dog that is bright, active, eager and demanding. This is the central truth of Aussiedoodle ownership that prospective buyers should internalise before acquiring one. The exercise requirement is substantial: a minimum of 1.5 to 2 hours per day of vigorous activity, supplemented with significant mental stimulation through training, puzzle feeding, agility or scent work. Physical exercise alone is not sufficient for a dog of this intelligence. A well-exercised but mentally under-stimulated Aussiedoodle will channel its considerable brainpower into behaviour that owners typically do not welcome. This is not a fault: it is a predictable outcome of failing to meet the dog's needs. Coat type varies considerably and is not predictable at purchase. The spectrum runs from wavy to tightly curled, with shedding levels that reflect which parent's coat genetics dominate. The consistently low-shedding coat is not guaranteed. Whatever the coat type, professional grooming every 6 to 8 weeks and regular home brushing are required. The most important health consideration specific to this cross is the MDR1 gene mutation inherited from the Australian Shepherd parent. Affected dogs have dangerous sensitivity to certain medications that are routinely used in veterinary practice. DNA testing before any medication is administered is essential, and the dog's MDR1 status should be communicated to every vet the dog sees throughout its life. Breeders should have both parents tested. Hip dysplasia, Progressive Retinal Atrophy and epilepsy are additional concerns from both parent lines. Health testing of both parents is the critical differentiator between responsible breeders and those producing puppies for demand. Ask for hip scores on both parents, PRA DNA test results for the Poodle parent, MDR1 test results for the Australian Shepherd parent and current eye certificates. Breeders who cannot provide this should be avoided regardless of price. Purchase prices range from £1,000 to £2,500. Monthly running costs of £130 to £230 reflect a moderately expensive cross to maintain. Lifespan is 10 to 13 years. For active families who genuinely engage with their dog's intelligence, commit to the exercise and mental stimulation requirements and verify health testing before buying, the Aussiedoodle is a warm, capable and rewarding companion. For those attracted primarily by the coat or the aesthetic, it is frequently too much dog.