I remember when I first saw a Goldendoodle some 10 years ago. At the time, doodles were rising up in the ranks. Nowadays, it seems like Doodles are everywhere.
I have a simple explanation for why is that. Doodle breeds have a higher percentage of being hypoallergenic than regular mixed breeds. And if you cross your Doodle puppy with another Poodle or another Doodle, chances go up. Breeders use Standard Poodle, Miniature Poodle, or Toy Poodle for doodles.
And by that logic, we have Standard Bernedoodle, Mini Bernedoodle puppy. And of course, Standard Sheepadoodle, Mini Sheepadoodle, and Toy Sheepadoodle.
Doodles have become popular options for families, and among the most loved are the Bernedoodle and Sheepadoodle. Both are so-called ‘designer dogs’ and pack a whole lot of personality into their fluffy bodies.
The Bernedoodle mixes the Bernese Mountain Dog with a Poodle, while the Sheepadoodle blends an Old English Sheepdog with a Poodle. These two breeds share some similarities, but they’re also unique in their own ways.
Size could be a deciding factor since Bernedoodles tend to be a bit larger.
Personality is another big thing to think about. If someone wants a dog who’s playful and family-friendly, they’d likely be happy with either breed, but the temperament can differ from dog to dog.
Health and expected lifespan are also important; it’s known that Sheepadoodles can often live a bit longer than Bernedoodles.
Today, I want to go over some of the personality traits, physical appearances, and more. We will compare Bernedoodle vs Sheepadoodle puppy. At the end, I hope you will have a better idea of which Poodle mixed breed dog is the right for you.
Key Takeaways
- Bernedoodles and Sheepadoodles are both mixed breeds involving Poodles, yet they differ in size and lifespan
- Each breed displays a playful and friendly temperament, although individual personalities will vary
- Prospective owners should consider health, exercise needs, and the cost of ownership when choosing between these two breeds
Understanding the Breeds
When choosing between a Bernedoodle vs Sheepadoodle doodle breed, it’s helpful to know where they come from and what their names mean. These factors play a part in their personalities and physical features.
Origin Stories
The Bernedoodle is a cross between the Bernese Mountain Dog and a Poodle parent breed, two well-loved breeds. Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for their sturdy build and calm nature, originating from the Swiss Alps where they were farm dogs. They bring strength and gentle personalities to the Bernedoodle mix.
Poodles, on the other hand, have a reputation for their intelligence and hypoallergenic coats. They were originally bred in Germany for duck hunting but gained popularity in France for various activities, including circus performances.
Sheepadoodles are a blend between Old English Sheepdogs and Poodles. Old English Sheepdogs have been around since the early 19th century in England, working as herding dogs. They contribute their playful spirit and shaggy coats to the Sheepadoodle.
Just like with the Bernedoodle, the Poodle’s smarts and non-shedding coat are integral to the Sheepadoodle’s appeal.
What’s in a Name?
A Bernedoodle’s name is pretty straightforward: “Bernese” from the Bernese Mountain Dog and “doodle” from the Poodle. These guys are known to inherit the strong, loyal nature of the Bernese, along with the curly, often low-shedding coat from the Poodle.
In the case of Sheepadoodles, the name combines “Sheep” from the Old English Sheepdog and “doodle” from the Poodle partner. They tend to have the easygoing, friendly vibe of the Sheepdog as well as the eloquent curls from the Poodle side of the family.
Talking about these breeds is like telling stories about friends with unique backgrounds that come together to give the best of both worlds: a sturdy, playful pet for people to bring into their homes and hearts.
Physical Characteristics
When comparing Bernedoodles and Sheepadoodles, their physical features really stand out. These lovable dogs vary in size, boast a range of colors, and have different needs when it comes to grooming.
Size Matters
Bernedoodles and Sheepadoodles come in various sizes, typically labeled as standard or mini.
A standard Sheepadoodle can weigh anywhere from 45 to 80 pounds, whereas a standard Bernedoodle might tip the scales at a heftier 50 to 100 pounds. Gender matters as well. Males are usually bigger than females.
On the smaller side, you have the mini versions that are lighter and generally easier for folks who don’t have space for a bigger pet. I have to say, I’ve seen more Mini Bernedoodle puppies than standard. Maybe there is something about the size of Doodle breeds. After all, most Poodle mixes are small dogs.
The Many Colors
These dogs could not be more different in the color department. Bernedoodles often sport a mix of black, white, and brown, making each one uniquely handsome.
Sheepadoodles, well, they usually have a black and white coat that reminds you of an Old English Sheepdog — pretty snazzy if you ask me!
Shedding and Grooming
No one likes dog hair all over their clothes, right? Luckily, both breeds have a reputation for being low-shedding due to their Poodle heritage.
Now, don’t think that means no grooming — these pups need regular brushing to keep their coats soft and tangle-free.
Bernedoodles generally have a wavier coat that might need a bit more attention, while Sheepadoodles have that sheepdog-like fur that requires a good combing to keep them looking sharp.
Personality and Temperament
When you picture a fluffy dog in your home, it’s their personality and temperament that really makes them a match for your lifestyle. Do they do well with the kids? Do they have a bounce in their step, or are they more chill?
Let’s chat about how these cuddly Doodles fit into your daily hustle.
Family Dynamics
Bernedoodles and Sheepadoodles both bring a lot of love and affection to a household. Their gentle nature makes them a cozy fit for families.
They thrive on interaction and fit well into the family photo, whether you’ve got a noisy house full of kids or a quieter, more laid-back vibe.
Are They Playful or Calm?
Speaking of vibes, let’s talk energy.
Bernedoodles are usually more on the playful side, with a good dose of energy—they can keep up with the kids in the backyard.
On the flip side, they know how to turn down the volume and chill, which is perfect for snuggle time.
Sheepadoodles, they’re no couch potatoes either. They’ve got a fun-loving spirit but can match it with a calm demeanor.
Social Butterflies?
Both of these doodle dogs are keen on being part of the gang, loving the company of both humans and other pets.
They’re smart cookies, too, picking up on social cues like pros. But remember, like any good friend, they need proper introductions and a little time to get comfy in new social scenarios.
Health and Exercise
When considering a furry companion, Bernedoodle vs Sheepadoodle, it’s important to think about their health needs and energy levels. These dogs love to move and thrive with the right care—let’s break down what this means for their daily routines and long-term wellness.
Staying Fit
Bernedoodle dogs and Sheepadoodle dogs both need regular exercise to stay healthy.
It’s their moment to shine, stretch those legs, and have a blast. He’ll thank you for a chance to play fetch or take a long walk around the neighborhood.
Here’s the deal:
- Bernedoodles: They enjoy a good stroll or playtime but don’t need to be on the go all the time. They’ve got a more chill vibe and can be happy with moderate exercise
- Sheepadoodles: These pals have a bit more zip and look forward to daily play sessions and walks
Keep them busy, or they might find their own way to burn off that energy—like redecorating your living room with the couch cushions.
Long-term Health
Good health isn’t just about today; it’s a long-term commitment. These dog breeds have their share of things to watch out for, but they also have a lot of love and tail wags to give.
- Bernedoodles:
- Lifespan: Around 12-15 years, but this can vary
- Keeping them healthy means paying attention to their diet and making sure they get enough playtime without overdoing it
- Sheepadoodles:
- Lifespan: A tad longer, maybe up to 15 years with good care
- It’s all about balance—exercise, top-notch food, and regular vet check-ups to keep them strutting their stuff for many years
Living with Your Doodle
When choosing to share your home with a doodle, thinking about the space you can offer and how you’ll train your furry friend can make a big difference in your daily life.
Home Space Needs
Doodles come in different sizes, and they all love to play. If you’re short on space, don’t worry. These dogs can adapt, but they do need their daily exercise.
For those with a Sheepadoodle, a game of fetch in the park is a great way to burn off energy. With Bernedoodles, a nice long walk or a play session in the yard works wonders.
Here’s a quick guide to help with figuring out the space your doodle might need:
- Apartment living: Daily walks and playtimes are a must
- Houses with yards: Secure fencing for safe, unsupervised outdoor fun
- Rural homes: More space for running but keep an eye out for wildlife or wanderlust
Training Your Pup
Training your doodle should be a fun and rewarding experience. They’re bright and often eager to please, making them relatively easy to train.
Keep sessions lively and full of affection. Positive reinforcement works like a charm—think treats and lots of praise when they get things right.
Consistency is key. Head down this road, and you’ll be heading toward a well-mannered companion.
A little cheat sheet for training sessions:
- Frequency: Short, daily sessions work best
- Positive Reinforcement: Always use treats, cuddles, and kind words
- Patience: Some days they’ll get it right away, others might take a bit more repetition
Cost of Ownership
When bringing a furry friend into the home, the price tag is just the beginning. Keeping up with their haircuts and vet visits will definitely add up. Let’s take a closer look at the dollars and cents of it all.
Price Tag of Puppies
First things first: if you’re eyeing a Bernedoodle or Sheepadoodle puppy, get ready to open your wallet.
For a Bernedoodle, folks typically find themselves spending between $2,000 and $5,000.
Sheepadoodles, on the other hand, might be a tad easier on the bank account, but not by much, ranging around $2,000 to $4,000.
These numbers can swing higher for those special color combinations everyone’s after.
The reason behind these numbers? Well, it boils down to the fact that they’re breed specially – they aren’t your everyday pups and that’s reflected in their price.
Grooming Expenses
Thanks to their fancy fur, grooming isn’t an if but a when – and it’s a pretty regular “when” at that.
Sheepadoodles and Bernedoodles both demand regular grooming to keep their coats neat and healthy.
A simple haircut can cost somewhere around $60 to $100 every couple of months.
Not to mention, these breeds can have a lot of hair, so you might be visiting the groomer more often than with other dogs.
This means you should be ready to include grooming in your regular budget.
Healthcare Budget
Finally, let’s talk about keeping these pups in tip-top shape: vet bills.
While these breeds are generally healthy, you’ve still got to plan for the usual check-ups and the odd surprise visit when they decide to eat something they shouldn’t.
Setting aside a healthcare budget is smart – think about starting with $1,000 annually, and adjust as you learn more about your new best friend’s needs.
Don’t forget to factor in routine vaccinations, and let’s not overlook the possibility of needing special treatments as they get older.
Finding the Right Breeder
When you’re ready to welcome a Sheepadoodle or Bernedoodle available puppies into your family, picking a good breeder is key. Locating a trustworthy breeder might seem hard, but it’s super important for the health and happiness of your future pet. Don’t fall for the many puppy scams online.
Breeders should ideally have lots of love for the pups they raise.
Look for breeders who provide plenty of info about the parents and the living conditions of the pups. A good sign is if they let you visit and meet the dogs in person.
When you do, pay attention to how the dogs act and look. They should be friendly and clean, and their living space should be tidy too.
Demand for these doodles can be high, so breeders might have waitlists. Don’t rush; it’s better to wait for a well-raised puppy than to settle for a hasty choice.
Ask lots of questions, like about health tests and the pups’ early experiences.
Early experiences can include interactions with people and other dogs, as well as their exposure to different kinds of environments and sounds.
Here’s a quick checklist to assist you on the breeder hunt:
- Do they have good reviews or happy customers you can talk to?
- Are they transparent about the health of the pups and parents?
- What kind of aftercare support do they offer?
Remember, your relationship with a breeder doesn’t end when you get your new furry friend; a commendable breeder will be there to offer help as your pup grows.
And hey, getting your dog should feel exciting, not worrying.
Take your time, have chat with breeders, and trust your gut feeling. Good luck!
