Aussiedoodle

Highly Affectionate with a Sweet Disposition, the Aussiepoo will Please the Whole Family!

If you're looking for an active, affectionate addition to your family that is super smart, the Aussiedoodle is a popular "designer" breed, a cross between the Standard Poodle or Miniature Poodle and the Australian Shepherd. With a delightful personality and even-tempered, sweet nature, this messy-looking bundle of fur will charm your entire family! Also referred to as the “Aussiepoo” by some, this breed makes a good therapy dog as well and is a perfect companion. Quite lively, it will always be looking for “something to do.”

History
Crossbreeds or designer breeds have become more popular in recent years, as more dog lovers desired to have a pet that was unique, but not necessarily a pure breed. Prospective owners began seeking out pets with certain physical or personality characteristics; those with the fewest health issues; or animals that were hypoallergenic. While the Poodle and Australian Shepherd mix certainly makes for a great pet, there are many crossbreeds which have become popular over the last few decades.

A bit about the history of the two separate breeds which make up the Aussiedoodle: The Australian Shepherd is thought to have originated between France and Spain in the Basque region of the Pyrenees Mountains, and is a working breed which over the years has been called the Pastor Dog, New Mexican Shepherd, and Blue Heeler. This breed's popularity quickly rose following World War II as it became highly visible in movies, rodeos, and other venues associated with Weste-style horseback riding.

The other "half" of the Aussiedoodle, the Poodle, is thought to have German ancestry, although it has been known for years as the national dog of France. Regardless of its origins, the breed's name in our country, Poodle, is derived from Pudel as it is known in Germany. While it may come as a surprise,

General Appearance
Lithe and agile, the Aussiedoodle typically grows to be between 14 and 23 inches tall, and will weigh between 25 and 70 pounds. Some "mini" Aussiedoodles will grow to a maximum of 40 pounds and about 17 inches tall when fully mature.

With a medium coat that sheds minimally, the Aussiedoodle may be black, white, brown, blue merle, tan and white, or black and white in color. Its muzzle is frequently square in shape; its tail may be docked or feathered, and long, depending on the breeder. While the coat may be shaggy, the texture is silky and soft, and may be straight or slightly wavy. Aussiedoodles may vary widely in physical appearance, since crossbreeds’ physical characteristics are determined by both parental breeds.

Temperament
Aussiedoodles are often used as therapy or service dogs because of their gentle nature and love of people. As with all dogs, the temperament is affected by its environment, its genetics, and how much socialization the puppy receives as it matures.

Highly intelligent, this dog breed is typically not aggressive nor is it shy. Those looking for a pet that is easily trainable will find the Aussiedoodle a good choice, although this dog may often attempt to "herd" your family, which is an instinctive behavior and should not be considered aggression. Overall, your pet will be lovable, sweet, and even-tempered. Aussiedoodles generally are patient with small children, and get along well with other pets. A pleasant-natured dog, this crossbreed should not be relied on as a guard or watch dog.

Proper Environment
For the most part, your puppy should live indoors, although this breed is moderately to highly active and loves to play. Fairly athletic, your pet will enjoy going for a daily walk, or playing Frisbee in the backyard. The Aussiedoodle is happy to live in an apartment, a suburban home with a fenced in backyard, or a farm/ranch environment as long as you make sure he or she gets plenty of exercise and playtime every day. Because it prefers an indoor environment, this breed is at home in nearly any climate whether you live in a region where winters are cold or where summers are hot/humid.

Grooming
Aussiedoodles shed very little and require minimal grooming. Brushing every other day or so can suffice. Some owners prefer to pull hair that grows in the ears on a regular basis. It's also important to use clippers to remove hair between the pads on your pet's feet, otherwise it can snarl and matt, making it painful for your dog to walk. Bathe only when your pet needs it, as frequent bathing will deplete the skin of natural oils, causing dry skin and itching. For best results should you decide to clip your Aussiepoo's hair, bathe first and dry thoroughly before clipping.

Health Issues
Because the Aussiedoodle is a crossbreed, it is possible for your dog to develop a health condition common to either the Australian Shepherd or Poodle. While the breeder you choose to purchase your pet from may say that the puppy is healthy and has no issues, never purchase a puppy without a guarantee of its health.

Some of the health issues encountered with Australian Shepherds include hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, detached retina, epilepsy and elbow dysplasia. The most common health issues seen in the Poodle breed include Addison's disease, thyroid problems, epilepsy, gastric dilatation volvulus (bloat), hip dysplasia, and tracheal collapse. As you can see, hip dysplasia and epilepsy are common to both breeds which may or may not increase the likelihood of these health problems developing. To ensure your pet’s good health, schedule regular vet visits.

References
http://www.akc.org/breeds/poodle/history.cfm.
Retrieved 10/25/2013

http://newdogworld.com/aussiedoodle-dog-breed/#.Umuo5RCrFfU.
Retrieved 10/25/2013

http://www.vetstreet.com/dogs/aussiedoodle.
Retrieved 10/25/2013

http://www.designermixes.org/breed_info/373/aussiedoodle.aspx.
Retrieved 10/25/2013

http://www.akc.org/breeds/australian_shepherd/history.cfm.
Retrieved 10/25/2013