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Aussiedoodle
Mixed Breed Hypoallergenic

Aussiedoodle

Australian Shepherd × Poodle

Origin: United States

IntelligentEnergeticPlayfulLoyalVersatile

Weight

25–70 lbs (varies by Poodle size)

Height

14–23 inches

Lifespan

10–13 years

Coat

Wavy to curly

Breeder Cost

$1,500–$5,000

Adoption Cost

$100–$400

Personality & Temperament

The Aussiedoodle combines two of the most intelligent dog breeds in the world — the Australian Shepherd and the Poodle. The result is an extraordinarily smart, energetic, and trainable dog. Aussiedoodles excel at agility, obedience, and virtually every dog sport. They are not recommended for sedentary households — they need a job.

Best For

Very active individuals or families, those who participate in dog sports, experienced dog owners with large yards

Exercise & Activity Needs

Aussiedoodles need 90+ minutes of vigorous exercise daily, plus significant mental stimulation. Agility, frisbee, and advanced obedience are ideal. A bored Aussiedoodle is a destructive Aussiedoodle.

Grooming & Coat Care

The Aussiedoodle's wavy or curly coat requires brushing 3–4 times weekly to prevent mats. Professional grooming every 6–8 weeks is essential.

Coat type: Wavy to curly; low-to-moderate shedding

Common Health Conditions

The MDR1 gene mutation is a critical health consideration for Aussiedoodles — it affects how they metabolize certain medications. DNA testing of both parents for MDR1 is essential. Always inform your vet.

Hip Dysplasia

Inherited from the Australian Shepherd side. Buy from breeders who OFA-certify both parents.

MDR1 Gene Mutation

Inherited from the Australian Shepherd side. DNA testing of parents is essential — this affects medication safety.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy

Inherited from both parent breeds. DNA testing of parents is important.

Epilepsy

Inherited from the Australian Shepherd side.

Addison's Disease

Inherited from the Poodle side.

History & Origin

The Aussiedoodle emerged in the US in the late 1990s and early 2000s, crossing the Australian Shepherd's herding intelligence with the Poodle's hypoallergenic coat. The goal was a highly trainable, low-shedding dog for active families. Their popularity accelerated in the 2010s alongside the broader doodle craze.

Interesting Facts

  • 1

    Aussiedoodles combine the two most intelligent dog breeds — the Australian Shepherd (#1 herding intelligence) and the Poodle (#2 overall intelligence).

  • 2

    Their merle coat pattern can produce stunning blue or multi-colored eyes.

  • 3

    They are one of the most trainable designer breeds and excel at agility, obedience, and trick training.

  • 4

    Without adequate mental and physical stimulation, Aussiedoodles can become destructive — they are not a low-maintenance breed.

  • 5

    Some Aussiedoodles inherit the Australian Shepherd's herding instinct and will attempt to herd children and other pets.

Cost of Ownership

Owning an Aussiedoodle is a long-term financial commitment. Here's a realistic breakdown of what to budget for.

Annual Cost

$1,300–$2,400

First Year (incl. setup)

$3,000–$5,500

Food$500–$800/yr

Active hybrid needs quality protein-rich diet

Vet Care$350–$650/yr

MDR1 gene mutation possible; hip dysplasia and eye conditions

Grooming$600–$1,200/yr

Wavy/curly coat needs professional grooming every 6–8 weeks

Training$300–$700 (first year)

Highly intelligent; needs mental stimulation as much as physical

Supplies & Toys$200–$400/yr

Puzzle toys and agility equipment for this smart hybrid

Pet Insurance$350–$650/yr

Recommended; MDR1 complications can be costly

* Estimates based on national averages. Costs vary by location, lifestyle, and individual health needs. Emergency vet visits are not included.

Popularity & Adoption Trends

Estimated US Population

~150,000 in the US

Adoption Trend

rising

Aussiedoodles have grown rapidly in popularity as buyers seek an extremely intelligent, athletic, low-shedding companion. Their striking merle coat patterns photograph beautifully on social media. However, their extreme intelligence and energy — inherited from both parent breeds — make them one of the most demanding designer dogs.

Plan daily life with your Aussiedoodle

Use the guides below to compare practical options alongside this breed's care needs.

Pet Tech Essentials

The right technology makes dog ownership easier, safer, and more connected — whether you're home or away. These are the products our editors consider must-haves for every dog owner.

Breed Traits

Best forfamilies with kids · first-time owners · active owners
Not idealapartment living · noise-sensitive neighbors · owners away long hours
Positive for ownersNeeds managementInformational
Energy Level
Very High
Trainability
Very High
Apartment OK
Very Low
Kid-Friendly
High
Pet-Friendly
High
Affection Level
Very High
Grooming
High
Shedding
Low
Hypoallergenic — lower dander & allergen levels

Temperament

Barking
High
Protective
Moderate
Sep. Anxiety
Very High
Stubbornness
Moderate
Noise Sensitive
High

Climate & Physical

Heat Tolerance
Moderate
Cold Tolerance
Moderate
Water Affinity
Moderate
Drool Level
Very Low

Compatibility

Rural & Outdoor

Livestock Safe
Moderate
Off-Leash Reliable
Very High

Scores reflect breed tendencies. Individual training significantly affects both livestock safety and off-leash reliability.

Dog Friendly
High
Cat Friendly
Moderate
Prey Drive
Moderate
!
Best for experienced owners

Health & Longevity

Health Score
Good (7/10)

Based on breed-specific genetic health risks and common conditions

Longevity
10–13 years
5 yrs20 yrs
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Consider Adopting

Many Aussiedoodles are waiting in shelters and breed-specific rescues. Adoption costs are typically $100–$400 vs. $1,500–$5,000 from a breeder.

Read our Rescue Guide →
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Download the Aussiedoodle Guide

Get a printable PDF with traits, cost of ownership, health notes, and best-fit summary — free.

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