The Aussiedoodle is a designer dog or mixed breed that is an Australian Shepherd and Poodle mix. Also called the Aussiepoodle or Aussiepoo, the breed was thought to be first intentionally created within the past few decades and has since become increasingly popular. [1] As one of many "doodle" dogs, they are easily confused with other breeds. However, by learning what makes them distinct, this wikiHow will help you identify an Aussiedoodle.

Method 1
Method 1 of 3:

Analyzing the Structure

  1. As Poodles in particular come in distinct sizes, Aussiedoodles do as well. Ones with a Toy Poodle parent tend to be smaller, ones that have Miniature Poodle genes are typically medium-sized, and ones who have a parent that is a Standard Poodle are on the larger end. However, most Aussiedoodles fall into a small- or medium-size range, with a height of about 10–15 inches (25–38 cm) and a weight between 25–70 pounds (11–32 kg), though this depends on the individual dog and may sometimes be larger or smaller. [2]
    • Additionally, an Aussiedoodle may be part Poodle and part Miniature American Shepherd (often called a "Mini Australian Shepherd"). These dogs are generally smaller in size and sometimes referred to as "Miniature Aussiedoodles". [3]
  2. An Aussiedoodle may inherit drop or hanging ears from their Poodle ancestry or ears that are pricked erect from an Australian Shepherd parent. [4] Ears that flop downward in a folded manner are common among the breed. [5]
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  3. While most Poodles have dark-colored eyes in the shapes of ovals, an Australian Shepherd may have eyes that are a bright amber, brown, or blue shade. Having genes from both of these breeds, an Aussiedoodle may have any of these eye types. [6]
  4. Aussiedoodles sometimes have their tails "docked" or cut to a shorter length than it was originally. Others may have naturally short tails without them being docked. However, some also have naturally long tails that never get docked, but think about if the dog's tail may be docked, particularly if they are a working dog, as it is fairly common for working dogs to have their tails docked if their ancestral breeds, such as Australian Shepherds, did. [7]
  5. Though an Aussiedoodle's structure can vary greatly, dogs of this breed tend to be rectangularly proportioned with good muscles and the ability to be flexible, standing proudly. [8] They are of strong bone and have a structure of overall good and clear definition. [9]
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Method 2
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Looking at the Coat

  1. An Aussiedoodle can be seen sporting a coat in a variety of colors, typically ones inherited from either the Poodle or Australian Shepherd gene pool. These can include tri-color, red or blue merle, black and tan (also called "phantom"), sable, and parti-color coats. It is also possible to see one with a solid-colored coat, though patterned coats seem to be more common. [10]
  2. Depending on which breed an Aussiedoodle has more relation to, their coat may range from curled tightly to a bit wavy or sometimes even straight. Their specific coat quality may also affect how tolerant they are to certain temperatures. [11]
    • It is often thick with a texture that feels similar to silk or is rather soft to the touch. This is sometimes comparable to a rabbit's pelt. [12]
  3. Aussiedoodles, and Poodle mixes in general, are often labelled as a "hypoallergenic" breed. Ones with short coats in particular may be a good choice for people that suffer from dog allergies, though there is never a guarantee with this. [13]
    • Note, however, that a completely hypoallergenic dog does not exist - dogs given this label are just considered better for people with allergies due to leaving less dander around the home. [14]
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Method 3
Method 3 of 3:

Taking Note of Temperament

  1. Aussiedoodles are part herding and part sporting dogs, so they naturally need a great deal of exercise on a daily basis. Activities such as swimming, hiking, or canine sports like agility are great for this breed. [15]
  2. From their Australian Shepherd genes, Aussiedoodles can retain instinctive herding traits. Because of this, some may try to "herd" objects they see moving around, such as other animals or even cars, so make sure to keep them safe around moving objects. [16]
  3. Usually without being stubborn, Aussiedoodles are remarkably smart and clever. They are incredibly trainable but need mental stimulation on a regular basis to keep them occupied. [17]

    Did you know? Some people consider the Aussiedoodle an "Einstein" breed due to their extremely high levels of intelligence. [18]

  4. Aussiedoodles are rather sensitive and may be prone to feeling anxious or timid, especially if not properly socialized. They are not trusting of strangers until they get to know and warm up to them. [19]
  5. With the combined positive traits of both their Poodle and Australian Shepherd parents, Aussiedoodles can excel in a family setting as long as they are given enough physical and mental exercise. They tend to get along well with children if both they and the children are socialized to one another early on. [20]
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      Tips

      • Consider DNA testing if you wish to know your dog's breed. A DNA test will confirm if your dog is an Aussiedoodle.
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