Sheepadoodle
A large, gentle Old English Sheepdog–Poodle cross that is affectionate and good with families. Often low-shedding but the thick coat needs frequent grooming. Size and herding drive vary depending on which parent they take after.
Sheepadoodle scorecard
Overview
The Sheepadoodle is a crossbreed produced by mating an Old English Sheepdog with a Poodle, usually a Standard Poodle. Other common spellings include Sheepdoodle and Sheeppoo. As with all doodle crosses, it is not recognised as a breed by The Kennel Club, has no breed standard and cannot be pedigree-registered, so size, coat and temperament vary considerably between individuals and even within litters.
In the UK a Sheepadoodle is generally a medium-to-large dog, often around 40–70 cm at the shoulder and roughly 20–36 kg, though Miniature-Poodle crosses are smaller. They are usually striking black-and-white or grey dogs with a soft, often curly coat. Affectionate and people-oriented, they typically suit active families with the time, space and grooming commitment that a large, hairy crossbreed demands.
Good to know — a Sheepadoodle needs plenty of space and manageable for committed beginners. Every dog is an individual, so meet a few and chat to a good breeder or rescue before deciding.
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History & origins
The Sheepadoodle is a modern designer crossbreed without a long documented history or any Kennel Club recognition. It belongs to the wave of Poodle crosses bred from the late 20th century onwards for trainability and reduced shedding.
The Old English Sheepdog is a British herding and droving breed, traditionally used to move livestock, known for its shaggy double coat and good-natured, sometimes boisterous temperament. The Old English Sheepdog is itself listed by The Kennel Club among its native "Vulnerable Breeds" because of low annual registrations. The Poodle is a historic European water dog renowned for intelligence and a low-shedding coat. The cross aims to combine the Sheepdog's friendly nature with the Poodle's biddability and coat.
Temperament & family fit
Sheepadoodles are usually friendly, affectionate and playful, often described as gentle family dogs that enjoy being part of household life. Many are sociable with children and other pets when well socialised, and they tend to be people-focused rather than aloof. The Old English Sheepdog heritage can bring a cheerful, sometimes clownish and bouncy disposition.
That herding background can also bring a tendency to herd or bump family members, and these are large, exuberant dogs that need teaching to be gentle and calm, especially around small children. They generally thrive on company and can be prone to separation-related behaviour if regularly left alone for long periods. Like most clever crosses, a bored Sheepadoodle may become destructive or noisy.
- Families with children of all ages
- Owners ready for consistent training
- Active homes with plenty of space
Training & intelligence
Sheepadoodles are typically intelligent and willing to learn, responding well to reward-based training. Their size and energy make early training valuable — teaching good manners, loose-lead walking and calm greetings before they are fully grown saves a lot of difficulty later. Socialisation from puppyhood helps them grow into confident, well-mannered adults.
Keep training positive, consistent and engaging; both parent breeds are bright and can lose interest in repetitive drills. The RSPCA and Blue Cross recommend reward-based methods and advise against harsh techniques. Because the herding instinct can include chasing and bumping, work on a reliable recall and gentle impulse control early.
- Start socialisation & handling early
- Reward-based methods only — no harsh corrections
- Channel energy into training games & enrichment
Exercise needs
A healthy adult Sheepadoodle typically needs 90 minutes to 2 hours a day (roughly 90–120 minutes), split across walks, play and a little training. Higher-energy dogs also need their brains tired — sniffy walks, training games and puzzle feeding go a long way. Puppies, seniors and dogs with health conditions need adjusted amounts — check with your vet.
Grooming & coat
Grooming is a major commitment. The coat is often thick, wavy or curly and prone to matting, and most Sheepadoodles need brushing several times a week or daily, plus regular professional grooming or clipping every six to eight weeks. Hair around the eyes, ears and rear needs particular attention. Check and clean ears regularly, keep nails trimmed and maintain dental care. Shedding is usually low to moderate, but no doodle is truly hypoallergenic and individual coats vary.
- Brush several times a week
- Bathe every few weeks or as needed
- Check ears, nails and teeth weekly
Feeding a Sheepadoodle
Feed a complete, good-quality food appropriate to the dog's size, age and activity, following manufacturer guidance and adjusting to keep the dog lean. Larger Sheepadoodles eat more and benefit from feeding routines that suit large breeds, including sensible portioning to avoid rapid growth in puppies. Measure meals, account for training treats and keep fresh water available. Ask your vet about body condition scoring and, for large pups, appropriate growth.
A large breed
An adult Sheepadoodle typically weighs 20–36 kg, so a healthy Sheepadoodle eats a fair amount compared with other breeds. Every feeding guide on a bag is written per kilo of body weight, not per breed — start there, then adjust to the dog in front of you.
Life stage
A large breed is usually done growing at 15–18 months, which is roughly when a puppy food has finished its job. With a typical lifespan of 11–14 years, there is a long adult stretch in the middle; switch to a senior food when your vet thinks it is worth it rather than on a birthday.
A high-energy dog eats like one
Sheepadoodles sit at the top end for energy, and a dog working through an hour and a half of real exercise a day burns through the feeding guide faster than a dog on a short stroll. Feed to the dog's condition, not to the middle of the range on the bag.
Joint support is worth looking for
Their size and frame put more load through the joints than a smaller dog carries, so a food with joint support on the label is worth reading for — and keeping them lean does more for their joints than any supplement.
Weight matters more than usual here
A long back or a heavy frame makes every extra kilo count twice. Weigh portions rather than eyeballing a scoop, and reduce the food rather than the walks if the waist starts to disappear.
How much should a Sheepadoodle weigh?
Adult 20–36 kgfully grown at 15–18 months
| Age | Stage | Typical weight | Of adult size |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 weeks | Just home | 2.3–4.1 kg | 11% |
| 3 months | Young puppy | 3.7–6.7 kg | 19% |
| 6 months | Growing fast | 7.4–13.4 kg | 37% |
| 12 months | Adolescent | 14.9–26.7 kg | 74% |
| 15–18 months | Fully grown | 20–36 kg | 100% |
A guide, from the same rule of thumb our puppy growth predictor uses — each age is that share of the way to maturity for a large breed. Puppies grow fastest early, so a real puppy usually sits a little above the middle rows. Weigh yours and ask your vet if the number worries you.
Complete dog foods that suit a Sheepadoodle
Complete foods from our range, matched to a Sheepadoodle's size band and what the breed typically needs. Stock levels and delivery dates are live on each product.
Field & Trial Skinner S Field Trial Light Senior
A lower-fat dry food for older, overweight or less active dogs, including working breeds
From£9.85
Autarky Complete Grain Free Adult Turkey
Grain-free complete dry food for adult dogs, with turkey and a marine-algae joint care package
£12.79
Autarky Grain Free Tasty White Fish & Potato Complete
Grain-free dry dog food built around white fish meal rather than poultry
£12.99
Lily's Kitchen Lily S Kitchen Dog Lovely Lamb
Complete lamb-led dry dog food offered in two practical bag sizes
From£25.15
Burns Adult Large/Giant Breed Chicken and Brown Rice
Complete large-breed dry dog food with 23% chicken and brown rice
£59.99
Burgess Greyhound and Lurcher Chicken
Complete adult dry food formulated for the specific build of greyhounds and lurchers
£35.35
Naturo Senior Rice Poultry Variety 6pk
Six 400g trays across three recipes for senior dogs, with glucosamine and chondroitin
£10.29
Naturo Senior Dog Turkey with Rice and Vegetables 7pk
Turkey at 65% in a senior wet tray, with brown rice, vegetables and added joint support
£11.99
Vitalin Adult Dog Pork with Apple
Complete dry food for adult dogs of any age, led by pork, with citrus extract for dental support
From£11.99
Sheepadoodle health & costs
Before bringing a Sheepadoodle home it pays to budget for the whole picture — food, insurance, grooming and routine vet care all add up. The figures below are typical UK estimates for a healthy adult; your real costs vary with where you live, your dog's health and the cover you choose.
Food
£600–850 / year
Complete food sized to weight & life stage
Insurance
£35–62 / month
Lifetime cover — varies by age, breed & area
Grooming
£400–700 / year
Regular professional grooming
Routine vet care
£200–450 / year
Vaccines, flea/worm, annual check
Being a first-cross may offer some genetic-diversity benefit, but a Sheepadoodle can inherit conditions seen in either the Old English Sheepdog or the Poodle, so the cross alone does not guarantee good health. Health testing of both parents is the key safeguard, and crossbreed-specific health data is limited because these dogs are not part of pedigree breed-health monitoring.
Buyers should ask to see hip scores, eye testing and relevant DNA results for both parents and should choose a responsible, health-testing breeder. The Puppy Contract and UK breeder-licensing rules are useful reference points when buying a puppy.
Common health conditions to be aware of
- Hip dysplasia — a developmental joint condition relevant to both parent breeds; check hip scores.
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) — an inherited cause of blindness; DNA testing available in the parents.
- Hypothyroidism — an under-active thyroid reported in both parent breeds.
- Bloat / gastric dilatation-volvulus — a life-threatening emergency that larger, deep-chested dogs can be at risk of.
- Cataracts — lens clouding that can impair vision.
- Ear infections — hairy drop ears need regular cleaning and checks.
These reflect typical, size- and coat-related risks for dogs like the Sheepadoodle; individual breeds carry their own predispositions. Always buy from health-tested parents and speak to your vet — this isn't a diagnosis.
Protect against surprise bills
A single emergency can run into thousands. Lifetime insurance spreads the risk.
Estimate insurance →How pet insurance works →Puppy & senior care
Bringing home a Sheepadoodle puppy
Puppies need controlled exercise (a rough guide is five minutes per month of age, twice a day) to protect growing joints, little-and-often meals of a complete puppy food, early socialisation, and a calm routine for toilet training and sleep. Book first vaccinations, microchipping and a vet check early.
New puppy checklist →Caring for a senior Sheepadoodle
As they age, watch weight, joints and teeth, switch to a senior diet if your vet advises, keep exercise gentle but regular, and consider orthopaedic bedding and ramps. Twice-yearly vet checks help catch issues early — larger breeds age sooner, so start senior care from around 6–7 years.
Orthopaedic beds & mobility →Pros & cons
The good bits
- Gentle, affectionate and great with children
- Often low-shedding and highly trainable
Things to consider
- Thick coat needs frequent grooming to avoid matting
- Large size and high energy need space and exercise
Compare the Sheepadoodle
See how the Sheepadoodle measures up against similar breeds before you decide:
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Cavapoo
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Similar temperament
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Schapendoes
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Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier
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Labrador Retriever
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Greyhound
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Frequently asked questions
What is a Sheepadoodle?
A Sheepadoodle is a crossbreed produced by mating an Old English Sheepdog with a Poodle, usually a Standard Poodle. It is also spelled Sheepdoodle or Sheeppoo. Like all doodle crosses it is not recognised by The Kennel Club, has no breed standard and cannot be pedigree-registered, so size, coat and temperament vary considerably between individuals and even within litters.
How big does a full-grown Sheepadoodle get?
A Sheepadoodle is generally a medium-to-large dog, often around 40–70 cm at the shoulder and roughly 20–36 kg, though Miniature-Poodle crosses are smaller. They are usually striking black-and-white or grey dogs with a soft, often curly coat. Because there is no breed standard, adult size always varies with the Poodle used and which parent a puppy favours.
Do Sheepadoodles shed a lot?
Shedding is usually low to moderate, which is part of their appeal, but no doodle is truly hypoallergenic and individual coats vary. The coat is often thick, wavy or curly and prone to matting, so grooming is a major commitment: most need brushing several times a week or daily, plus professional grooming or clipping every six to eight weeks.
Are Sheepadoodles good with children and other pets?
Sheepadoodles are usually friendly, affectionate and playful, and many are sociable with children and other pets when well socialised. The Old English Sheepdog heritage brings a cheerful, sometimes clownish disposition. However, they are large, exuberant dogs that can herd or bump family members, so they need teaching to be gentle and calm, especially around small children.
How much exercise does a Sheepadoodle need?
This is an active cross that generally needs a good amount of daily exercise, commonly an hour or more for a full-sized adult, alongside mental stimulation. Walks, free running in safe areas, play and training games all suit them. Larger, Standard-bred Sheepadoodles need more, and exercise should be moderated in puppies while their joints are still developing.
Are Sheepadoodles easy to train?
Sheepadoodles are typically intelligent and willing to learn, responding well to reward-based training. Their size and energy make early training valuable, so teach good manners, loose-lead walking and calm greetings before they are fully grown. Both parent breeds are bright and can lose interest in repetitive drills, so keep sessions positive, consistent and engaging.
What health issues can Sheepadoodles have?
Being a first-cross may offer some genetic-diversity benefit, but a Sheepadoodle can inherit conditions seen in either the Old English Sheepdog or the Poodle, so the cross alone does not guarantee good health. Ask to see hip scores, eye testing and relevant DNA results for both parents, and choose a responsible, health-testing breeder.
How is a Sheepadoodle different from a Bernedoodle?
Both are Poodle crosses, but a Sheepadoodle is bred from an Old English Sheepdog while a Bernedoodle is bred from a Bernese Mountain Dog. Both are typically affectionate, family-oriented and low-to-moderate shedding, but they descend from different parent breeds, so coat colour, temperament and health predispositions differ. Neither is recognised by The Kennel Club.
Are Sheepadoodles good with children?
Excellent with children of all ages. As a general guide, Sheepadoodles tend to be patient and tolerant. Whatever the breed, always supervise dogs and young children and teach kids to interact gently.
How much exercise does a Sheepadoodle need?
As a healthy adult, a typical Sheepadoodle needs 90 minutes to 2 hours of exercise a day (90–120 minutes), split across walks plus play. Higher-energy dogs also need mental stimulation — sniffing, training games and puzzle feeders — to stay settled. Puppies, seniors and dogs with health conditions need less — ask your vet.
Do Sheepadoodles shed a lot?
Low shedding. Coat upkeep is high upkeep — plan on frequent brushing and regular trips to a groomer.
Are Sheepadoodles easy to train and good for first-time owners?
Manageable for committed beginners. Sheepadoodles are best for owners ready to commit to consistent training and plenty of activity. Reward-based training and early socialisation help any dog.
Do Sheepadoodles bark a lot?
Moderate barker. They are usually fairly easy-going about barking, though any dog will bark if bored or under-exercised.
Are Sheepadoodles good with other dogs?
Sociable with other dogs. Early, positive socialisation with other dogs from a young age makes a big difference.
Do Sheepadoodles suit flats or smaller homes?
Needs plenty of space. A Sheepadoodle really needs plenty of space and a lot of daily activity — not ideal for a small flat.
Sources
- The Kennel Club — Getting a dog, crossbreeds and Vulnerable Breeds (https://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/getting-a-dog-or-puppy/)
- RSPCA — Dog care and choosing a dog (https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/dogs)
- Blue Cross — Dog breeds and behaviour advice (https://www.bluecross.org.uk/advice/dog)
- PDSA — Dog health and crossbreed advice (https://www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice)
Recommended for your Sheepadoodle
Matched to a Sheepadoodle's size and their typical need for regular coat care, enrichment & mental stimulation, no-pull walking kit.
Bugalugs Hemp Oil for Dogs & Cats – 50ml
A natural, UK-made hemp seed oil supplement rich in Omega-3, -6, and -9 to support calmness, joint mobility, and a healthy, glossy coat.
£13.99
Hollings Choice Cuts Pure Beef Curls
Hollings Choice Cuts Pure Beef Curls: 100g bag, with declared composition and analysis
£3.49
Reflective Two-Tone Dog Harness and Lead Set
A bright two-tone step-in dog harness with a matching lead. Adjustable straps and quick-release buckles give a snug fit, while reflective trim keeps your dog visible on darker walks.
£7.99
L-Shaped Bolster Sofa Dog Bed
A supportive L-shaped sofa bed with a raised bolster back and side for your dog to rest their head. The thick padded base cushions joints, and the soft rose-velvet cover is removable and washable for easy care.
From£44.99
Plush Snuffle Foraging Mat
A roll-up plush snuffle mat with cute animal designs. Hide treats in the folds and let your pet sniff and forage to find them - a rewarding enrichment game that beats boredom and slows feeding.
£13.99
Soft Mesh Recovery Cone Collar
A soft, breathable mesh recovery cone that stops licking and biting of wounds after surgery. Lightweight and adjustable, it's a comfy alternative to a hard E-collar for dogs and cats.
From£11.99
Bugalugs Scottish Salmon Oil for Dogs & Cats 500ml
A 100% natural daily supplement rich in omega 3, 6, and 9 from high-quality Scottish salmon — supports skin, coat, joints, and brain health.
£13.99
Suggestions based on breed traits — always check sizing and suitability for your individual dog.
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Every dog is an individual — temperament and needs vary. Please research thoroughly, meet dogs in person, and consider adopting from a rescue. This is general guidance, not a substitute for advice from your vet or a qualified trainer.