What’s an Aussiedoodle? Aussiedoodle Health Issues?

Sometimes called an Aussiepoo, the Aussiedoodle is a cross between an Australian Shepherd and a Poodle, resulting in a fluffy and charismatic dog. Breeders started producing Aussiedoodles in the 1990s along with several other popular Poodle crosses such as Goldendoodles, Cockapoos, and Labradoodles. When full-grown, Miniature Aussiedoodles (an Aussie and Miniature Poodle mix) can weigh up to 30 pounds, while the standard size can grow to be 70 pounds.

Like their parent breeds, Aussiedoodles can be a wide range of colors, from jet black to blue merle. And while Poodles are popular for their non-shedding curls, Australian Shepherds are moderate shedders. There’s no guarantee that your Aussiedoodle will be a light shedder, and while they might be a good fit for some people with allergies, no dog breed is completely hypoallergenic. If you’re allergic to dogs, spend time with the breed before bringing home an Aussiedoodle puppy to see how you react.

Caring for an Aussiedoodle

Both Poodles and Australian Shepherds are smart dogs, so it makes sense that Aussiedoodles would be intelligent as well. Their big brains make them highly trainable, and well-trained Aussiedoodles are generally friendly with everyone they meet.

When you bring home an Aussiedoodle puppy, you’re signing yourself up for a regular workout regimen. These active dogs need playtime and long walks every day, especially if they take after their highly energetic Australian Shepherd parent. Their favorite activities include playing fetch, running, and swimming (Poodles are water dogs, after all). Aussiedoodles need at least an hour of movement every day.

Aussiedoodle Health Issues

As a crossbreed, an Aussiedoodle can be affected by genetic conditions common in both Poodles and Australian Shepherds. A dog’s health often depends on the breeding, so prospective pet parents looking to purchase from an Aussiedoodle breeder need to do their due diligence and find an ethical breeder who screens the health of their dogs.

Thyroid Disease

The most common genetic condition in Australian Shepherds is thyroid disease, according to the Australian Shepherd Club of America. Autoimmune thyroiditis is the most common cause of hypothyroidism in dogs. Common symptoms include unexplained weight gain, skin problems, and heat-seeking behavior. If you notice any of these signs, take your Aussiedoodle to the veterinarian. Luckily, the disease can be treated with inexpensive and readily available medication.

Sebaceous Adenitis

One of the more common health problems affecting Poodles is sebaceous adenitis, a type of inflammatory skin disease, according to the Poodle Club of America. The disorder causes inflammation of the glands that lubricate the skin and hair, causing scaling, flaking, and hair loss. There is no cure for sebaceous adenitis, but the symptoms can be managed with routine baths and ointments.

Joint Dysplasia

Like many medium and large dog breeds, Aussiedoodles can be affected by hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. Dysplasia is caused by a malformed joint. This can cause pain and, if untreated, arthritis. Mild cases can be treated with exercise, a healthy diet, and maintaining a healthy weight. However, more severe cases of dysplasia might require surgery.

Bloat

Large and deep-chested breeds like Poodles are predisposed to bloat. If this develops into gastric-dilation volvulus, or GDV—where a dog’s stomach fills with air and twists—it can be fatal. Like their Poodle parent, standard Aussiedoodles may be predisposed to bloat.

Signs of bloat include: