If you’re searching for a poodle that is loyal, gentle and kind, then a Shepadoodle may be the perfect dog for you! They have continued to increase in popularity, and their reputation continues to thrive as a dogg that is extremely bright but also very well behaved. Here are some of the top questions and answers:.
Breed Breakdown:
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What are the parent breeds: Poodle + German Shepherd
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Do Shepadoodles shed? Yes, but minimal compared to other breeds
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How big do Shepadoodles get? Up to 90 pounds when fully grown
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How much is a Shepadoodle? $1000-$3000
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How long do Shepadoodles live? 10-18 years
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What’s a Shepadoodle’s temperament? Intelligent, loving, energetic
Do Shepadoodles Shed?
Although a Shepadoodle is a poodle mix between a Standard poodle and German Shepherd (a breed that sheds heavily), they generally do not shed much. However, they don’t shed nearly as much as German Shepherds, and compared to other hybrid dogs, they don’t shed as much.
Because there are different types of Shepadoodles (f1 Shepadoodles, f1b Shepadoodles, f2 Shepadoodles, etc.), your dog will shed according to the type of doodle you own. More specifically, it depends on the percentage of poodle vs. German Shepherd in your dog. If your dog is more poodle, it won’t shed as much as if it was a higher percentage of German Shepherd.
Shepadoodles typically have 2 different coat types: straight, or curly. A straight coat Shepadoodle has a longer, smoother hair, while a curly coat doodle has typically shorter, rougher hair. To elaborate, these features are determined by genetics. When both parents have the genes for a curly coat, that appears in the dog.
Are Shepadoodles Hypoallergenic?
Truth be told, no breed is ever truly 100% hypoallergenic. All dogs have fur that can shed, making it a potential issue for people who have allergies. Despite being completely hypoallergenic, these doodles are an allergy-friendly dog breed.
This is mainly because of the mixture of poodle characteristics found in the offspring. Pet dander, saliva, and urine are the three elements that can commonly produce allergic reactions. Luckily, poodles have only a single coat with low dander, and their fur is non-shedding. Therefore, if your Shepadoodle is more poodle than German Shepherd, your pet will be more allergy-friendly. In other words, a F1b Shepadoodle will be more allergy-friendly than a f1 Shepadoodle
How Big Do Shepadoodles Get?
When it comes to Shepadoodle size, there are generally two categories: mini Shepadoodles and standard Shepadoodles.
Mini Shepadoodles grow to a height of around 15-20 inches, and usually weigh in at around 30-35 pounds. This is the perfect option if you have a smaller living space, or just prefer smaller dogs.
Standard Shepadoodles, on the other hand, can be anywhere from 50-90 pounds, although the average full grown Shephadoodle weighs in closer to 90 pounds. They usually stand at around 28 inches tall. Because this is the biggest type of Shephadoodle, these dogs require more space to run around and play.
How Big is a Shepadoodle Puppy?
At birth, a Shepadoodle puppy will weigh anywhere from 2 to 8 ounces, depending on the size of the parents. Most Shepadoodles will fall somewhere in the middle, around 4 pounds. As they grow, Shepadoodle puppies will put on weight at different rates. Some may double their birth weight in just a week, while others may take a bit longer.
A Shepadoodle puppy can range in size from small to large, depending on the specific mix of parent breeds. However, most Shepadoodles fall somewhere in the middle, averaging between 50 and 90 pounds as adults.
How Much Does a Shepadoodle Cost?
Pricing for these doodles depends on a number of factors, although a general Shepadoodle price tag will fall between $1000-$3000.
Due to their attractive personalities and relatively hypoallergenic nature, these doodles can be quite expensive. There are also a number of factors that affect their price, such as:
Color: There are a number of different Shepadoodle colors. In addition to the typical black Shepadoodle, you can find professional breeders who can provide you with white Shepadoodles, brown Shepadoodles and black and white Shepadoodles. The more “exotic” the color, the higher the price tag.
Coat: Breeders charge different prices based on the coat. Essentially, the more evident the “poodle” characteristics within the Shepadoodle, and the more allergy-friendly the dog, and the higher the pricing!
Size: Because they’re typically larger doggies, you can expect to pay more money for a mini Shepadoodle.
Location & Demand: Prices can fluctuate based on where you live, along with the level of demand for the Shepadoodle based on the area. Bigger metropolitan cities such as San Francisco or New York will often have higher price tags because both of these places tend to have a higher cost of living, along with a greater need for allergy-friendly dogs.
Reputation of the Breeder: When you’re trying to bring a doodle into your family, research is critical. When you find a reliable breeder who has experience producing healthy pups, that can be a world of difference (specifically for your puppy’s life span and health). Keep in mind that you can also find doodles in shelters and other rescue centers if that is what you prefer.
How Long Do Shepadoodles Live?
In general, Shepadoodles will live between 10-18 years. However, there can still be outliers within these statistics. For example, smaller dogs usually live longer than larger dogs, meaning that a mini Shepadoodle may outlive a standard Shepadoodle. An increased lifespan can also be attributed to crossbreeding (crossbred dogs usually outlive their purebred counterparts) along with the place you have purchased the dog (reputable breeders generally produce dogs that live longer).
What’s a Shepadoodle’s Temperament?
Because of their loving nature, Shepadoodles are the perfect dogs to have around your friends and families. They are gentle and loyal, and because they are partially German Shepherd, they are also incredibly smart and require mental stimulation. These dogs in particular take well to training, and do well in households that give them the attention they desire.
Common Health Concerns
When it comes to health, Shepadoodles are relatively hardy dogs. However, like all mixed breeds, they can be susceptible to health problems that affect either or both of the parent breeds. Some of the most common health concerns for Shepadoodles include:
Hip and elbow dysplasia: This is a condition that affects the joints, causing them to develop abnormally and resulting in pain and lameness.
Eye problems: Shepadoodles can be prone to a number of eye problems, including cataracts, glaucoma, and progressive retinal atrophy.
Bloat: This is a potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when the stomach twists on itself, cutting off blood flow and trapping gas.
von Willebrand’s disease: This is a bleeding disorder that can cause prolonged bleeding from even minor cuts.
While there is no guaranteed way to prevent all health problems, choosing a reputable breeder and having your Shepadoodle puppy checked out by a vet as soon as possible can help ensure a healthy dog.
Grooming Your Shepadoodle
One of the best things about Shepadoodles is their low-maintenance coat. This thick, wavy coat can come in a variety of colors, including black, brown, cream, and gray. And while it does shed, it doesn’t require a lot of grooming. A good brushing once or twice a week is usually all that’s needed to keep the coat looking its best.
Shepadoodles only need to be bathed as needed, which is usually every few weeks or so. When you do bathe them, be sure to use a mild dog shampoo to avoid drying out their skin.
Their ears should be checked regularly and cleaned as needed to prevent wax buildup and infection. Their nails will also need to be trimmed on a regular basis, and their teeth should be brushed at least once a week.
Training Requirements
Shepadoodles are intelligent, eager to please dogs that are relatively easy to train. They respond well to positive reinforcement methods, such as treats and praise.
Like all dogs, Shepadoodles need basic obedience training. This should include commands such as sit, stay, come, down, and heel. crate training is also recommended. Crate training will not only help with housebreaking, but it will also give your Shepadoodle a safe place to retreat to when they need a break from the hustle and bustle of family life.
Shepadoodles can be strong-willed at times, so patience and consistency are key when training them. It’s also important to socialize them early and often. This means exposing them to a variety of people, places, and situations in a positive way so they learn to cope with change and new experiences.
Exercise Needs
Shepadoodles are high-energy dogs that need plenty of exercise to stay happy and healthy. A good daily walk or run is a great way to meet their exercise needs, but they will also enjoy playing games such as fetch and Frisbee.
Shepadoodles are not the best choice for apartment or city living. They do better in suburban or rural areas where they have access to a yard or park to run and play in.
If you’re looking for an active partner to join you on hikes, runs, or bike rides, a Shepadoodle might be the perfect dog for you.
Do Shepadoodles Make Good Family Dogs?
Shepadoodles make great family dogs. They are loyal and protective of their families, but they are also good with children and get along well with other pets.
Like all dogs, Shepadoodles need to be properly socialized. This means exposing them to a variety of people, places, and situations in a positive way so they learn to cope with change and new experiences.
Conclusion
When you think about the perfect family dog, you probably imagine one that is not only playful and energetic, but also well behaved and easy to train. If you’d like a dog that will befriend both dogs and humans, the Shepadoodle might just be your dream dog.