Description: The Shepadoodle is a hybrid dog that is a cross between the German Shepherd and the Poodle. This is a strong dog that is agile and robust, combined with a muscular framework and they have stamina. As with a lot of the hybrids the look is not fixed and therefore it is best to read up on both breeds used to see if you like all the features. Overall, the Shepadoodles head is carried high and the face can be like either breed so you can have a narrow muzzle or it could be wider like the German Shepherd. The ears tend to be like the Poodle and hang downward and are heavily fringed. The tail is carried high and this has a curve and is well fringed. The main feature is the coat but again this is not at a stage in the breed’s development to say for sure what it will be. They can be long and wavy to short and thick. Not all coats are low allergy. The height is changeable but in the range of 15-26 inches and the weight is 45-95 pounds. This all depends on the size of the breeding dogs. Coat colours are black and tan, browns, grays, solid blacks, parti colours and even cream with or with out markings. The life expectancy is 12-14 years.

History: The history is new so for now they are just starting on a journey over time. The problems that are already affecting this dog and all new hybrid dogs is one of money, sadly there are people who just want quick cash and are breeding these new dogs. Here then are pups breed for money with no thought to blood lines or health screening and over time you could find that your pup has inherited problems that if it was a good breeder you would not have had. This could cost you a lot of money in vet bills and see your dog ill which could have been prevented. Buy from a breeder that has a passion in what they do, that understands the breeds used and has health checks done and only uses dogs in the breeding program that are fit to breed and have the temperament desired. This is the way we can help this breed get to a set standard and have the great health that we seek.

Temperament: If the Shepadoodle has been breed from an even temperament breeding pair then this is a wonderful dog. Both breeds have great intelligential ability so this dog has a great start. Training needs to start at a young age and carry on, this needs to be positive, as harsh training methods do not work with this breed. This dog needs an owner with good leadership skills and that is firm but calm. Set household rules and boundaries of what is allowed and what is not, this can be things like no jumping at people or not begging at the meal table but they need to know the rules and all people in the home have to keep the rules. Here is a dog that loves to play and can be active. They are loyal and love their family. They get on best being raised with the children but are good with children overall. Being well tuned into the owners voice you only have to say “no” with firmness and the dog will stop. The Shepadoodle is bright and will want to have two walks a day and will need to have mental exercise as well. Providing you can meet these needs the dog makes a really good family pet.

Health issues: There is need to go to a good breeder that knows what they are doing and that have full health certificates for good breeding or you can have hip dysplasia, cataract and a number of other health issues.