An Aussiedoodle is a cute and fluffy dog that comes from mixing an Australian Shepherd and a Poodle. This breed is also known as an Aussiepoo. Aussiedoodles have been around since the 1990s, along with other Poodle mixes like Goldendoodles, Cockapoos, and Labradoodles. Aussiedoodles can be either small or big, depending on the size of the Poodle parent. A Miniature Aussiedoodle can weigh up to 30 pounds, while a Standard Aussiedoodle can reach 70 pounds.
Aussiedoodles have different colors and patterns, from solid black to spotted blue merle. Their coats can be curly like a Poodle or straight like an Australian Shepherd. Some Aussiedoodles shed less than others, but none of them are completely hypoallergenic. If you have allergies, you should meet an Aussiedoodle before you decide to get one as a pet. You might have a reaction to their fur or dander.
Aussiedoodle Care:
Aussiedoodles are smart dogs because they come from two smart breeds:
Poodles and Australian Shepherds. They can learn many things quickly, and they are usually nice to everyone.
Aussiedoodles are also very active dogs. They need a lot of exercise every day, especially if they have more energy like their Australian Shepherd parent. They love to play games like fetch, run around, and swim in the water (Poodles are good swimmers). Aussiedoodles should get at least an hour of exercise every day.
Aussiedoodle Health Problems:
Aussiedoodles can get sick from some diseases that affect both Poodles and Australian Shepherds. The health of a dog depends a lot on how it was bred. If you want to buy an Aussiedoodle from a breeder, you need to be careful and find a good breeder who checks the health of their dogs.
Thyroid Problems:
Many Australian Shepherds have thyroid problems, as the Australian Shepherd Club of America says. This means their thyroid gland does not work well. This can make dogs have low energy, gain weight, have skin issues, and feel cold. If your Aussiedoodle has these symptoms, you should take them to the vet. The good news is that this problem can be fixed with cheap and easy medicine.
Skin Problems:
Poodles can have a skin problem called sebaceous adenitis, as the Poodle Club of America says. This makes their skin and hair glands swell up. This can make their skin dry and flaky, and their hair fall out. There is no way to cure this problem, but you can help your dog by giving them regular baths and creams.
Joint Problems:
Aussiedoodles can also have joint problems like hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. This happens when their joints are not shaped right. This can make them hurt and get arthritis. Some dogs can get better with exercise, good food, and keeping a healthy weight. But some dogs might need surgery to fix their joints.
Bloat Problems:
Poodles can have a problem called bloat. This is when their stomach gets too big and twists. This can be very dangerous and even kill them. Standard Aussiedoodles can have this problem too, like their Poodle parent.
Some signs of bloat are:
- Being restless
- Drooling a lot
- Trying to throw up
- Breathing fast
- Having a big belly
- Falling down
Bloat and GDV are very bad problems. If your dog has any of these signs, you should take them to the vet right away.
Aussiedoodle Food:
Aussiedoodles are active dogs, so they need good food that gives them enough energy to play and grow. You should look for food that has the AAFCO label, which means it is safe and healthy for dogs.
Aussiedoodle puppies need special food for puppies. This helps them grow strong and healthy. When they turn one year old, you can give them adult dog food.
Aussiedoodles should eat two times a day. Puppies should eat more often, three or four times a day. You should feed them at the same time every day.
Bloat:
Aussiedoodles can have bloat problems, which can be very bad for them. To prevent this, you should make sure they don’t eat or drink too fast. You can use a slow-feeder bowl, which makes it harder for them to eat too much at once. You should also avoid giving them high bowls or letting them exercise right before or after eating.
How much you feed your Aussiedoodle depends on how big, old, and healthy they are. You can check the dog food package for some guidance, but the best way to know is to ask your vet. They can tell you how much food your dog needs to stay fit and happy.
Nutritional Tips for an Aussiedoodle
Aussiedoodles need food that has all the nutrients they need, as the Pet Food Institute says. Their food should have vitamins like Vitamin A and D3, and also proteins and fats. Vitamin A helps their eyes and immune system, and D3 helps their bones. Proteins give them energy for running and playing, and fats make their coat shiny and soft.