If you are considering adopting a Sheepadoodle puppy, you have come to the right place. Read on to learn more.
This article will discuss everything you need to know about Sheepadoodles, including their personality, appearance, grooming, and health. Read on to learn more.
As the name suggests, Sheepadoodles are a mix between the Old English Sheepdog and the Poodle. They are sociable and obedient dogs that fit well in any dog-loving family. These dogs are also playful and intelligent.
What Is A Sheepadoodle?
A Sheepadoodle is a cross between the Poodle and the Old English Sheepdog. A standard Poodle is usually used to create a medium to a large dog since both the Poodle and the Old English Sheepdog are similar sizes.
You can also use a Miniature Poodle for breeding a Mini Sheepadoodle. However, this is not common, as you will need parent dogs of similar size for your female dog to have a safe pregnancy and birth.
Sheepadoodle Care
Like other designer breeds, Sheepadoodles usually require more attention and care from their handlers. Since they love to socialize with people, leaving them at home alone can lead to separation anxiety.
Raising your Sheepadoodle puppy in an active environment is good as it will allow it to play and socialize with anyone living there.
If you are going to leave your house, you can leave around some dog products that can help your furry friend deal with separation anxiety.
You can purchase a few specially-made products, such as a toy or a dog bed. Generally, raising a designer dog breed like the Sheepadoodle can be challenging and requires enormous responsibilities.
If you plan to adopt a Sheepadoodle, here are a few responsibilities that you must be prepared for.
- Your Sheepadoodle will require the right dog food and treats.
- You will need to teach them important commands, such as fetching, going inside the house, and sitting.
- Grooming their fur or taking them to a dog groomer.
- They will need proper exercise to live a long and healthy life.
- You will need to clean your pet’s mess, like dog waste, spilling, and breaking items around the house.
Health Issues
Sheepadoodles have various health issues that you should be prepared for.
Since they are crossed between the Poodle and the Old English Sheepdog, they are prone to deal with health issues their parents had.
It is important to understand the parents’ medical history before purchasing a Sheepadoodle.
Here are the common health issues that Sheepadoodles are prone to:
Hip Dysplasia
Hip Dysplasia is a common health condition among large dogs. It is a condition involving the improper alignment of the ball and socket of a dog’s hip joint. It leads to grinding and deterioration of the joint.
This condition can be very painful to a dog and even result in loss of mobility. You can manage it early by avoiding hard surfaces and reducing weight-bearing activities.
Your furry friend will require surgery if the condition worsens.
Addison’s Disease
Addison’s Disease is a health condition that results in an abnormal production of hormones by the adrenal gland.
Dogs with this condition do not create enough aldosterone and cortisol. This leads to decreased appetite, weakness, and depression.
If you suspect any signs of this condition, you should see your vet as soon as possible.
Cushing’s Disease
Cushing’s Disease is a health condition resulting from an adrenal gland abnormality. It is the opposite of Addison’s Disease as it results in an increased production of cortisol.
The symptoms of this condition include excessive panting, hair loss, and increased appetite.
Since it can be treated through medication, you should see your vet as soon as possible if you suspect any signs of the condition.
Gastric Torsion
Gastric Torsion is also known as bloat. It occurs when a pet’s stomach fills with gas, thus becoming twisted. The condition can be life-threatening in some cases.
Some symptoms of the condition include swollen abdomen, excessive drooling or frothing around the mouth, and restlessness.
Since the condition can be life-threatening, you should contact your vet immediately if your dog shows any signs.
Dental Disease
Without appropriate dental care, your Sheepadoodle puppy can suffer from Periodontal Disease. Your furry friend will suffer from the condition because of plaque and tartar buildup over time.
It can lead to gum infections, losing teeth, and loss of bones.
Other common health issues in Sheepadoodles include:
- Diabetes
- Heart Disease
- Luxating Patella
- Cataracts
- Epilepsy
- Obesity
Best Sheepadoodle Rescues For Adoption In The USA
Here are a few dog rescues that will offer you a healthy and quality Sheepadoodle puppy for adoption.
Poodle Rescue Of New England
Poodle Rescue of New England is a volunteer organization that rescues, rehabilitates, and finds dog-loving homes for Poodles.
They rescue all types of Poodles and Poodle mixes, such as the Sheepadoodles and Goldendoodles.
They do not have any central office or shelter. Instead, all their rescued dogs are hosted in foster homes in New England as they await to be taken to their forever homes.
You can find Sheepadoodles for adoption in three sizes; standard size (between 40 and 60 pounds), mini size (between 10 and 25 pounds), and toy size (less than 10 pounds).
They are usually very strict about the type of home their pet is going to. To adopt a Sheepadoodle, you must have a securely fenced yard.
They prohibit any use of electric fences or bark collars. Besides, they do not give out dogs to homes with children under ten.
The adoption fee at Poodle Rescue of New England varies according to the needs and age of the dog. The donation ranges between $300 and $800.
To adopt a Sheepadoodle, you can visit their website to fill out an adoption form. You will be required to pay a $10 non-refundable fee.
All dogs are groomed, vaccinated, and spayed/neutered before they are allowed to join their new homes. They are also heartworm tested.
Poodle Rescue Of New England Details
- Location/Address: Somerville, MA
- Website: Poodle Rescue Of New England
- Phone Number: 617-628-1425
- Email Address: poodlerescue@poodlerescuene.org
Carolina Poodle Rescue
Carolina Poodle Rescue is a private organization that rescues and rehomes Poodles and various Poodle mixes like Sheepadoodles. Their Dreamweaver farm in South Carolina houses more than 150 animals at any given time.
They have volunteers across various states of the USA, including Georgia, Virginia, South Carolina, Virginia, New York, and North Carolina.
Since its establishment, the organization has rescued more than 5000 dogs from its high-kill shelters and helped them to settle in permanent homes.
Since every Sheepadoodle dog is unique, their adoption fee is also unique and varies from dog to dog. They schedule dog adoptions on Thursdays and Saturdays.
They also host mobile events in North Carolina every month. Interested adopters can have a meet and greet during these events.
Carolina Poodle Rescue works with out-of-state dog adopters. If you do not live in South Carolina, you (with your family) will be required to visit their Dreamweaver farm to meet your furry friend.
All pets in your home should also be spayed/neutered.
If you adopt a Sheepadoodle puppy, they will provide you with all the necessary information about your puppy, including their treatment and vaccination details. For more information, you can contact them via email.
Carolina Poodle Rescue Details
- Location/Address: South Carolina
- Website: Carolina Poodle Rescue
- Email Address: applications@carolinapoodlerescue.org or info@carolinapoodlerescue.org
Poodle Rescue Of Houston
Poodle Rescue of Houston has been rescuing Poodle and Poodle mixes like the Sheepadoodles for over 20 years.
Over the years, they have rescued thousands of dogs from high-kill shelters and helped them to find permanent dog-loving homes.
Most of their Sheepadoodle dogs for adoption are abandoned or injured strays. They have a shelter in Northwest Houston with large outdoor and indoor kennels.
They also have four quarantine buildings to accept pets from different places without risking the health of others.
The adoption fee at Poodle Rescue of Houston varies according to the dogs’ size, needs, and age.
The fee for senior and special needs dogs is usually less or can be waived. They have a website where you can see a list of available dogs looking for new homes.
Poodle Rescue Of Houston Details
- Location/Address: 13302 Schroeder Rd., Houston, TX 77070
- Website: Poodle Rescue of Houston
- Phone Number: 713-504-1224
Conclusion
The Sheepadoodle is one of the most adorable dog breeds. It is a mix between the Poodle and the Old English Sheepdog.
These intelligent and friendly dogs are perfect for families. However, it may not be an easy task to raise your Sheepadoodle.
Like other breeds, your Sheepadoodle may face various health issues. It will also need good care to live a long and happy life.
If you are considering adopting a Sheepadoodle puppy, you can visit one of the dog rescues on our list above.